HOW TO DO IT OR DO IT EVEN BETTER

BOOK REVIEW BY SHARLEE MERNER BRADLEY

Corinne McKay is well known to ATA members for her presentations at the annual conference, her activities in the French Division, and her online course, “Getting Started as a Freelance Translator.”

In this valuable book she fulfills her intention of introducing would-be translators to the business and the profession so they can judge whether it is right for them. The chapters include an overview of the translation business, how to get started, how to set up a home office, how to establish rates and terms of service, and, finally, what to do to expand.

However, several important suggestions will be welcome to experienced translators as well, such as how to raise your rates, how to press for payment, what to do when it is not forthcoming, and steps to take in the first place to avoid falling into such a nasty situation. Her sample letters to the client will be a boon to every translator who has to dun a client.

In the section on contracts, which are often presented to translators by agencies, McKay discusses different points found in a contract that the translator might not wish to sign and how to handle them. In addition, the translator’s rate sheet is discussed in detail, showing what should be included on it.

There are similar books on the market, but this gem should be at the top of every translator’s list. SMB

Getting Started as a Freelance Translator
by Corinne McKay
Two Rat Press, 2006. 142 pages
ISBN 978-1-4116-9520-7
Under $20 at www.intransbooks.com or translatewrite.com.