5 Ways to Get More Interpreting Clients

Interpreting clients

Building a client base is an ever-present challenge for interpreters. Whether you’re just starting out or having been in the business for years, you always need to be on the lookout for new opportunities. Fortunately, there are several ways to market yourself as the right person for the job. Sometimes a well-crafted resume is enough, but sometimes you need to get a little more creative. Below are five ways to get more interpreting clients—from traditional methods that still work to outside-of-the-box ideas.

 

  1. Highlight Your Area(s) of Specialization

 

Language and interpreting skills are only half of the equation when it comes to getting hired. Potential clients also need someone who understands their industry and has the required credentials. Getting certified in your field is one the best ways to do just that. In some industries, such as healthcare and legal, you may need a state or national certification to qualify for most jobs. If your area of specialization doesn’t have a certification program, highlight your professional training, any continuing education courses, and/or membership in industry-related organizations.

 

  1. Build Your Remote Interpreting Skills

 

Remote interpreting is quickly becoming the norm in healthcare, business, and even legal settings. Yet it poses some unique challenges that onsite interpreters don’t face. From more difficulty building a rapport between participants to trouble with technology, it takes some adjusting to make the switch. However, with a little practice you can improve your remote interpreting skills. If you already have experience, be sure to highlight that when you market yourself to potential clients.

 

  1. Network, Network, Network

 

As with any field, people prefer to work with someone they know and trust. While COVID-19 has made it more difficult to make new connections, virtual events and conferences are still great ways to find new clients. By attending virtually, you’ll also keep up with industry trends, learn about the latest technology, and even earn continuing education credits.

 

  1. Film a Video Introduction

 

If you really want to stand out from the competition, film a short video introduction to send to potential clients. This lets you showoff your professionalism—and language skills—in a more personable way. Potential clients will get a better feel for who you are beyond your resume. If you have a website, be sure to upload it there as well.

 

  1. Use an Online Interpretation Platform

 

As an independent contractor, you’re responsible prospecting, scheduling, and tracking your finances. Staying organized is of the utmost importance if you wan to succeed. And here’s where the right software can help. Built with interpreters in mind, Boostlingo’s interpretation platform lets you manage your schedule—and your income all in one place. And thanks to our web/mobile app, you can accept new assignments no matter where you are. You never have to worry about missing an opportunity.

 

Want to find out if Boostlingo is right for you? Start your free trial today!

 

 

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How to Find an Interpreter for a Language of Lesser Diffusion

The United States is the land of linguistic diversity—with at least 350 languages spoken at home. Although Spanish, Chinese, and French round out the three most common after English, millions of residents speak a language of lesser diffusion. While each of these cultures add to America’s diversity, language barriers can make it difficult to access healthcare, legal services, and more.

 

If you need an interpreter who speaks Spanish, even on short notice, you’ll likely find one without much trouble. Yet what if you need someone who speaks Swahili? Or Telugu? Depending on where you live, this can pose a major challenge. Fortunately, remote interpreting options make it easy to find an interpreter regardless of your location—or theirs.

 

But before we get into the benefits of remote interpreting, let’s take a look at the linguistic diversity across the country.

 

Language Diversity Across America

 

The U.S. Census Bureau released a set of its most comprehensive data on languages in November 2015. Based on American Community Survey data, it includes information on 350 languages. Below are some statistics from five of the largest metropolitan areas.

 

New York

 

  • At least 192 languages are spoken at home.
  • Bengali, with 105,765 speakers, is one of the area’s smaller language groups.

 

Los Angeles

 

  • At least 185 languages are spoken at home.
  • Indonesian, with 12,750 speakers, is one of the area’s smaller language groups.

 

Chicago

 

  • At least 153 languages are spoken at home.
  • Serbian, with 17,490 speakers, is one of the area’s smaller language groups.

 

Dallas

 

  • At least 156 languages are spoken at home.
  • Telugu, with 12,630 speakers, is one of the area’s smallest language groups.

 

Philadelphia

 

  • At least 146 languages are spoken at home.
  • Malayalam, with 10,370 speakers is one of the area’s smallest language groups.

 

The Benefits of Remote Interpreting

 

As you can see, even languages of lesser diffusion may make up relatively large communities, especially in metropolitan areas. However, there may still be a shortage of professional interpreters who speak that language. Here’s where remote interpreting comes.

 

There are two methods of remote interpreting: over-the-phone and video remote. Both methods let you work with an interpreter without bringing them onsite. This not only helps you save on travel expenses, but can help you get an interpreter on short notice.

 

So, how do you connect with a remote interpreter? One way is through Boostlingo’s easy-to-use interpreting platform. All you need is a phone or webcam and internet access. There’s no need to download any software. Plus, you’ll gain access to the Boostlingo Professional Interpreter Network, which includes interpreters who speak over 200 languages.

 

Want to find out if Boostlingo is right for you? Start your free trial today!

 

 

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Why Video Remote Interpreting Is Vital for Student Success

education post

The 2020-2021 school year may turn out to be one of the most challenging in recent history. From virtual classes to hybrid learning to new restrictions in the classroom due to COVID-19, students and teachers will need to quickly adapt. But one thing that hasn’t changed? The need for interpreters in education.

 

Interpreting in Higher Education

 

In 2018, the number of international students in the U.S. reached a new high of 1.9 million. As the top study abroad destination, the U.S. offers numerous benefits for students who want to get ahead in today’s world. Yet in order to fully take advantage of this opportunity, many students must first overcome language barriers. Here’s where educational interpreters come.

 

Under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, schools must ensure that that students who are learning English have an equal opportunity to succeed academically. By offering interpreting services, colleges and universities can give limited-English proficient (LEP) students the support they need to do just that.

 

Interpreting in K-12 Education

 

International college students aren’t the only ones who need assistance from an educational interpreter, either. K-12 students who have recently relocated to the U.S. or primarily speak another language at home typically need language support while they’re learning English.

 

According to The Pew Research Center, there were nearly five million English language learners in the U.S. public school system as of 2015. Of those students, the majority speak Spanish at home in 45 states and Washington D.C. However, the majority in states such as Maine and Vermont spoke less common languages, such as Somali and Nepali, respectively.

 

This puts teachers and school administrators in difficult position given the circumstances. Students still need help from interpreters, but many are learning from home. And even if students are returning to the classroom, schools may be hesitant to bring interpreters onsite.

 

Video Remote Interpreting to the Rescue

 

Fortunately, video remote interpreting gives students access to an interpreter in the classroom and at home. With Boostlingo, teachers can connect with an interpreter in seconds. And thanks to the Boostlingo Professional Interpreters Network (BPIN), they’ll have access to interpreters who speak over 200 languages, including American Sign Language (ASL). Plus, our new Zoom integration feature makes it easy to help LEP students, without giving up the platform that teachers grown comfortable using.

 

Want to learn more about how Boostlingo can help in the classroom? Contact us today to schedule your free trial!

 

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A Round-up of virtual interpreting conferences

Virtual Event

The year 2020 is the year when everything went fully virtual – from work and learning to dinner parties. Conferences held by professional interpreting and translation organizations are no exception. In this post we prepared a round up of virtual conferences happening this fall to help you stay on track with your professional development plans for the year. You can now hone your interpreting skills and catch up on new developments in the field without leaving the comfort of your home – just remember to stock up on snacks for coffee breaks!

 

Arizona Translators and Interpreters (ATI) Annual Conference: Getting Down to Business 

When: September 26 – 27, 2020

Cost: ATI Annual Membership + Conference $125.00  

ATI Annual Conference $80.00 

Event Description: As a result of Covid-19, and our responsibility to the welfare of our members, the ATI Board decided to have the 2020 ATI Annual Conference as a fully online/virtual event.

Therefore, we will hold a two (2) day event for the conference in order to attain the maximum CEUs possible. There will be a variety of presentations ranging from regular sessions to workshops. We sure hope to “see” you there!

CEUs: ATA CEPs, 9CCHI CEUs

Event Website: https://atiinc.org/event/arizona-translators-and-interpreters-ati-annual-conference-2/

 

Association of Language Companies 2020 Virtual Summit 

When: September 15-17, 2020

Cost: One Day Pass $99, ALC Member and Partnership Association 3-Day Pass $199, ALC Non-Member

3-Day Pass $249

Event Description: Agile Thinking | Innovative Solutions | Best Practices | Forecasting the Future. Three days of education, networking, and collaborating with the brightest minds in the LSC Community

Event website: https://www.alcus.org/general/custom.asp?page=ALCVirtualSummit

 

American Translators Association (ATA) 61st Annual Conference

When: October 21-24, 2020

Cost: *ATA Member  **Non-member  ***ATA Student

Early Registration (by September 28): $299* $475**  $145***

Standard Registration (after September 28): $389*  $615**  $185***

Late Registration (after October 16): $499*  $805**  $245***

Event Description: Learning is interactive: 120 sessions will be streamed live. You’ll be able to participate in Q&As, personally follow up with speakers, and switch between sessions just as if you were attending in person. 

Networking still exists:  Meeting up with friends and making new ones, even virtually, is invaluable right now. Keep up to date with technology and trends in the Exhibit Hall. Look for job opportunities at the Job Fair. Reach new clients by making connections with colleagues.

There’s no better value for the money: You’ll have long-term access to all 120 sessions on demand. With the early registration rate for members at $299, that’s less than $3 per session. Plus there are no travel or hotel costs.

CEUs: Click here for details 

Event Website:https://ata61.org/

 

The Globalization and Localization Association (GALA) Connected 2020

When: September 22 – 25, 2020

Cost: $295
Event Description: Organized as a virtual conference, GALA Connected will afford a wider audience the opportunity to engage and discuss what the future will hold. At an affordable price point it will also provide more professionals — be they supply- or buy-side, start-up or mature business, academia or private sector, core or allied industry, LSP or language technology provider — to join this conversation. We can only build a shared future through wider participation of the entire international community and GALA Connected is the right forum at the right time to begin the building process.

Event Website: https://www.gala-global.org/conference/GALA-Connected-2020

 

Midwest Association of Translators & Interpreters 17th Annual Conference 

When: September 26, 2020

Cost: Individual Members – $50.00, Non-members – $60.00, Student Member – $25.00, Student Non-member – $30.00

CEUs: pending from ATA, CCHI, Wisconsin Courts

Event Website: https://www.matiata.org/page-1829491

 

Oregon Society of Translators and Interpreters 2020 virtual conference: From Masks to Mastery

When: September 12-13 and September 19-20, 2020

Cost: General – $55.00 (For non OSTI members), General + One-Year OSTI Membership – $100.00, General + Two-Year OSTI Membership – $145.00, Member – $45.00, Students (Proof Required) – $45.00.

Event Description: 30+ sessions spanning over 2 weekends (4 days). Topics: Remote Interpreting, COVID-19, Medical, Advocacy, Ethics, Translation, Business Practices, and more. Meet your colleagues in the lunch breakout rooms, bring your literary translation work to read in the Open Mic, or just come to enjoy. 9/19 Saturday night social on Zoom. Show your support for your profession and community through your participation. Get inspired and recharged!

CEUs: ATA, OJD, WA AOC, WA DSHS, CCHI, IMIA, RID (click for details)

Event Website: https://ostiweb.org/2020-Conference

 

Slator: Managing Change and Innovation Workshop 

When: September 10 

Cost: 75$

Event Description: In this unprecedented time of business crisis, how can leaders manage change and drive innovation to ensure their businesses have the best chance to survive and grow? In this 90-minute interactive workshop, learn how Covid-19 has disrupted businesses, and what organisations can do to embrace change, transform and lead their organisations into the future.Participants will learn the frameworks for corporate innovation, the role of Agile methodology in a time of urgency, and how you can implement your ideas with  speed across your organisation.

Event Website: https://slator.com/slator-managing-change-september-2020/

 

Texas Association of Healthcare Interpreters & Translators (TAHIT) 2020  Educational Symposium

When: November 20-21, 2020 

Event Description: Join us for our first virtual event that is sure to bring even greater diversity to our event full of networking, educational opportunities, and fun! Texans and language professionals from across the country and abroad have come to rely on TAHIT to create an annual event that does not disappoint!  It is the premiere event for CEUs, networking, learning, and making great new friends.  We do all this, while keeping our symposium the most affordable and highest quality in the nation, in our humble Texas opinion! This year we raise the bar once again.

Event Website: https://www.tahit.us

 

Texas Association of Judiciary Interpreters and Translators (TAJIT)2020 Annual Conference

When: September 12-13, 2020

Cost: Full conference Member price: $195.00

Full conference Non-member price: $235.00

Student rate: $100.00

Event Description:  Learn & Get Inspired: Every year TAJIT offers its members a wonderful  opportunity to meet their spoken and sign language interpreter colleagues as well as fellow translators, and to become better at what we do by sharing our knowledge and experiences. This year we had to get creative as we confronted the unrelenting scourge of the Covid-19 pandemic.  All our lives have been upended but this virtual conference will provide a safe avenue for us to learn together and maintain that precious sense of community we all treasure. The TAJIT Board of Directors and its Conference Committee have worked hard to put together a quality program that meets the high expectations set by past conferences. Here’s looking forward to another successful TAJIT Conference!    

CEUs:  JBCC CE: 8 hours, ATA 8 CEPs

Event Website: https://www.tajit2020.com/

 

The Evolution Of Localization: 10 Years in the Industry: Then, Now, and Beyond  with Memsource

Cost: Free

Event Description: This event will take a deep look into the role of technology in the present and future of the translation industry: How will one of the largest ever transactions in the localization technology space shape the industry? What is key for localization teams to keep up with the fast-developing world and how has it changed in the last decade? How do we understand machine translation today and what will be its role in the future?

When: September 15 

Event Website: https://try.memsource.com/evolution-of-localization-online-event/

 

Professional Association of Mississippi Interpreters and Translators (PAMIT) and Interpreters and Translators Association of Alabama (ITAA) 2020 Joint Virtual Conference 

When: November 7, 2020

Cost: $35 – $65

Event Description: The first joint virtual conference will feature 3 live events: a keynote address in the morning, a networking event right after lunch, and a panel in the early evening. The rest of the sessions will be pre-recorded and accessible for two weeks. 

CEUs: Requested from CCHI, NBCMI, RID and Alabama Courts

Event Website:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/heroes-in-action-advancing-multilingual-services-and-professionals-tickets-117878091545

 

The Translation and Localization Conference TLC + KT 2020

When: September 25 – 27, 2020

Event Description: Join us at one of the most renowned translation industry events in Europe!

This time entirely on-line together with the Polish event. Take part in the conference for the WHOLE translation industry! At our conferences, you will meet not only translators and interpreters, but also technical writers, QA experts, CAT tools experts, representatives of the academia, the media, multinational corporations… and many more!

Cost: 79.95 EURO

Event Website: https://translation-conference.com/

 

We hope you are able to attend these wonderful professional events. While we’ll miss travelling to new places and meeting colleagues in person, we are also excited about the new possibilities virtual conferences bring. Happy networking! 

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