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Mastering the Art of Literary Translation

May 15, 2024

In literary translation , the role of a translator goes beyond mere language conversion. Translators often find themselves in a unique position as mediators between authors and publishers, navigating linguistic nuances, cultural contexts, and editorial decisions to ensure that the essence of a work is preserved while making it accessible to a new audience. In a recent episode of the popular language industry and language AI podcast...

10 Ways Translation Technology is Increasing Productivity and Quality

May 01, 2024

Translation tools are more accessible than ever, and users, including translators, can now access machine translation (MT) via web browsers, applications, plug-ins, APIs, and even directly on the user interface of some smartphones. MT can now also be integrated with more systems and applications, including AI-enabled automation. Based on Slator’s continuous coverage of translation technology research and advancements in the field, there...

What Skills Do Specialized Language Interpreters Need?

Feb 29, 2024

While interpreting itself is a challenging task, the stakes are significantly higher when it comes to high-pressure situations such as international negotiations. In these contexts, the role of an interpreter goes beyond mere linguistic fluency; it demands a specialized skill set and a high level of expertise. The Specialized Skill Set Interpreting for high-stakes situations is a critical and complex task that requires expert...

How Hard Is It to Find Translation Jobs in 2024?

Feb 19, 2024

During SlatorCon Remote November 2023, Slator surveyed attendees at a panel about talent in the language industry, asking buyers and language service providers (LSPs) separately how easy it is to find workers. 40% of respondents among buyers said it is “very difficult”, 33% said it is “difficult”, 26% said it was “sufficiently easy”, and no one said it was “very easy.” Almost half of respondents at LSPs, 48%, said it is “difficult” to...

How Generative AI Can Boost Translator Productivity

Feb 16, 2024

Generative Artificial Intelligence can now be accessed by virtually anyone, not just through dialogue-type prompts in well-known models, such as ChatGPT , but also through AI -enabled tools like Notion AI and Readwise Reader , which offer users user-friendly interfaces to take advantage of multiple levels of automation. Some of the most useful ways in which AI can help linguists enhance their productivity are terminology extraction...

Twelve Skills for Linguists to Find Work Beyond Translation and Interpreting

Feb 14, 2024

Linguists are typically not unidimensional. In fact, linguists are some of the most multidisciplinary professionals, with innate code-switching abilities that transcend translation and interpreting. As automation changes the way translators and interpreters work and make a living, job diversification becomes a distinct option for them as linguists, which is the foundation of what they do, applying different skills based on the job at hand....

Ethical Challenges in Translation

Aug 15, 2023

Translation plays a vital role in connecting cultures and enabling effective communication. However, with the rise of AI, the landscape of translation is undergoing significant changes, raising more ethical considerations for translators. The ethical dilemmas include issues such as maintaining confidentiality, dealing with sensitive content, and upholding cultural sensitivity. Technology and Ethics The integration of AI and machine...

How to Get a Job in the Translation Industry as a Graduate

Mar 03, 2023

Depending on your language combination, area of specialism, and where you are based, it may not be easy to find junior translator positions. Compared to other professions, finding graduate roles, junior titles, or internships in translation can feel like looking for a needle in a haystack. The key is to seek out ways to gain experience and learning opportunities, no matter how big or small. Here are just a few ways to give yourself a leg up...

5 Continual Professional Development Ideas for Translators and Interpreters in 2023

Feb 27, 2023

You may have a language-related qualification, or several. You may have experience; maybe even more than just a few years. But no industry is static; languages and job requirements move. Continuous Professional Development ( CPD ), or just Professional Development (PD), means maintaining, improving, and expanding your knowledge and skills as a professional linguist and actively engaging in activities to do so. It is essential for every...

5 Ways for Freelance Interpreters to Boost Business

Feb 13, 2023

The way we live and work is constantly evolving, and the language industry is no exception. The good news is that the language industry is growing and there is significant demand for interpreters. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that employment of interpreters and translators will grow 20% within a decade (from 2021 to 2031), which is significantly faster than other professions. The most common interpretation services being...

Why Join a Professional Translation Association in 2023?

Feb 01, 2023

Professional associations exist in almost every industry in all corners of the world. And for good reason. So, let’s take a look at what key qualities define a professional association in the language industry, why joining a professional association is beneficial to veteran linguists and fledgling translators alike, the different types of associations, and a few noteworthy examples from around the world. What is a Professional Association...

Top Tips to Translation Portfolio Perfection

Jan 19, 2023

Portfolios are a great way for newbies to the world of freelance translation or those looking for new opportunities to let any potential employer, client, or LSP know why they need you. You might be thinking I already have to provide a CV, a personal statement or cover letter, an initial translation test, and now a portfolio too? Whatever for? While it may not always be a requirement of the application, and instead of approaching this with...

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