The profession of an interpreter allows you to work in international companies and go on business trips abroad. It is an interesting job for people who enjoy learning foreign languages and learning about the characteristics and culture of other countries.

Who is an interpreter and what does he do?
An interpreter is a professional who translates information from one language into another intelligently and as close to the original as possible. Translators may translate in writing or orally. Most often, a specialist is required to have skills in both types of translation. But some translators specialize in one or the other – they only translate in writing (e.g. they work in a publishing house and translate books) or orally (e.g. they work as tour guides).

Translators – translate texts, documents, drawings, books, etc. from one language to another. They can work in companies as freelancers or at a translation agency.
Interpreters – translate speeches and presentations at negotiations, seminars, conferences. There are interpreters-synchro interpreters, who translate speech in real time. Simultaneous interpreters are some of the highest paid interpreters.
Technical translator translates instructions, drawings, specifications. This is a very in-demand area, since many companies have to translate documentation for foreign equipment.
Artistic translators specialize in translating fiction. Currently, the income of artistic translators is not very high.
Also allocate translators of computer games, movies, advertising translators. The latter can deal not only with the translation of advertising, but also its adaptation to the native language, because humor and many turns of speech are perceived differently in different countries and cultures.

Pros and cons of the interpreter profession

Pros:

  • High demand for professionals.
  • Opportunity to work in international projects.
  • Lack of language barrier.
  • Freelance work schedule.
  • Broadening of horizons.
  • A wide social circle.
  • Interesting work that keeps the brain stimulated and forces to develop.
  • The opportunity to earn good money.
  • High prestige of the profession in society.

Minuses:

  • The working day may be irregular.
  • High psycho-emotional stress, especially on the synchronists.
  • Required skills and knowledge
  • Excellent knowledge of foreign and native language.
  • Large vocabulary.
  • A broad outlook.
  • Knowledge of business etiquette and the basics of intercultural communication.
  • How much do interpreters earn?
  • The salary of an interpreter depends on his qualifications, the number of orders, the company and the city where he works.

How to become an interpreter?
In many big cities there are universities where training in “translation and translation studies” is available. Also graduates of foreign languages and international relations departments can work as translators.

When you enter a foreign department you usually have to pass a foreign language exam. You can prepare for the exam online, for example, by taking training programs with leading teachers on various websites.

Where to look for a job as a translator?
Jobs can be found on freelance job exchanges, by contacting translation agencies directly, on job sites. The profession of a translator is in demand, so finding a job in it is not very difficult.