What is the best way to get potential employers to trust me enough to give me an entry level translation job?
In my opinion, references speak louder than words. So if you can, do some translating for a friend or neighbor, or perhaps for a pro bono situation, such as for your church or other organization.
Do it as a beginner; do it for free. Do it for the reference. Any pay you get will be miniscule, compared to your ability to use their name—with their permission—as someone you’ve translated for or to list them as a reference. And if they’re willing to pay you a pittance, how wonderful that will be, too. Many of us did some of our early translating for Doctors Without Borders, but I don’t believe they have taken beginner translators for years now. Nonetheless, there are undoubtedly other local organizations that would be grateful for your services.-By Adriana Tassini
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