Posted by Erika Pavelka on March 01, 19100 at 13:33:50:
In Reply to: Gaining experience posted by Chris Clark on January 30, 19100 at 03:12:22:
: My name is Chris Clark, and I have received a B. ScL in translation studies in June 1999. I am looking for a way to break into the industry, yet it seems that no one is eager to hire a translator out of university. I have applied for in-house and agency positions without any luck. I translate primarily from French to English, and while I know that I still have a lot to learn, I believe I can be a competent, efficient translator if anyone would give me a chance. I have done volunteer work whenever I've had the chance, and have made it clear that I would write any test any agency could give me, but no one has taken me up on my offer. It is very discouraging to know that four years of intense studying and research and tens of thousands of dollars doesn't even get me a foot in the door, but I refuse to give up. Does anyone have any suggestions?
: Thank you for your time,
: Chris Clark
Hi Chris,
I was in the same boat as you back in 1996. What I did when I was looking for work was get a listing of all the translation agencies in Canada (where I live) from the Yellow Pages on the Internet. I called every single one, and slowly built up a client base. It took time and high phone bills, but it was worth it.
One important thing is to look for clients (or an employer) where your skills are needed. If you're in Europe, then you'd be better off looking in France/Belgium/Switzerland, etc.
Good luck!
Erika Pavelka
