Dear readers,
As the Managing Director of TranslationsInLondon, I’ve had the pleasure of working with many talented linguists over the years. We love building relationships with a reliable group of regular translators—it not only makes our workflow smoother but also gives us the opportunity to develop meaningful, long-term collaborations. Many of our London-based linguists even enjoy meeting us in person to grab a coffee and chat about the industry, which further strengthens these partnerships.
In our experience, there are a few key practices that help freelance translators stand out and become agency favorites. Whether you’re new to the field or a seasoned professional, these best practices will help you become a go-to translator for agencies and build stronger relationships with them.
Recommendations for Freelance Translators: How to Become an Agency’s Go-To Translator
- Set Your Rates Transparently
Transparency is key when working with agencies. Ensure that your rates are clear from the beginning. If you have a minimum rate, communicate this upfront. This saves time and avoids unnecessary negotiations later on. - Communicate Rate Preferences
If you don’t accept a certain rate or have a strict minimum, let the agency know early in the discussion. This helps establish boundaries and avoids conflicts. By being upfront, you can ensure that you and the agency are aligned. - Update Your Availability
Many agencies have portals for translators. If so, always keep your availability updated. Set your out of the office or inform your regular client if you are taking some time off. This helps agencies know when you’re free to take on projects, making it easier for them to assign work to you efficiently. - Be Responsive and Communicative
Respond to emails and requests promptly, even if it’s just to let them know that you’re not available. Timely communication builds trust and reliability. - Deliver Quality Work Consistently
Consistency is key. Ensure that every project is done with attention to detail, following the agency’s style guide and requirements. This will make you a reliable choice for future assignments. - Be Professional and Flexible
Agencies appreciate professionalism. Be flexible when possible, especially with deadlines, but always set realistic expectations. Going the extra mile without overcommitting will make you a valuable asset. - Don’t Subcontract Your Work (Unless Allowed)
Some agencies strictly prohibit subcontracting work to other translators. Make sure you understand their policy before outsourcing any part of the project. Always get explicit permission from the agency if you intend to subcontract, to maintain trust and transparency.
We hope this blog has given you valuable insights into how to build and maintain strong relationships with agencies. At TranslationsInLondon, we truly value our partnerships with translators, especially those based in London. So next time you find yourself near Richmond, give us a shout! We’d love to meet up for a coffee—or a matcha—and get to know you better.