Our profession is unusual in that many people with knowledge of a foreign language feel they have the ability to work in it. For this reason, we suggest that you consider quality as the determining factor, and not just price, in hiring someone to translate for you. This will make it possible for you or your company to achieve the desired results, as well as avoid subsequent problems.

Qualifications of a competent translator:

• The ability to speak and write correctly the languages he/she translates.
• Punctuality in complying with commitments.
• Ample knowledge of the languages being translated, as well as the culture corresponding to each.
• Ability and experience in transferring meanings from one language to the other.
• Protection of the confidentiality of information received from his/her clients.

In a translation, what defines "quality"?

According to general guidelines, a quality translation should combine clarity and precision. When we refer to clarity, we mean that the translation expresses the ideas and intentions of the writer, without ambiguity, in the manner of a native speaker of the target language.

Generally, the presentation of a translation should follow the form and style of the original; however, the purpose and intended use of the translation, as well as the client's specifications, should also be considered.

Prices

As is the case with any independent professional, the translator or interpreter is the person who determines the price of his or her work. The varying prices that you will find on the market do not necessarily relect the quality and experience of the translator; therefore it is important that you follow the steps we suggest here.

To obtain the best results, we recommend the following:

1. Ask for a sample, preferably dealing with the same subject as the document you want translated.

2. Make sure the document you want translated is legible.

3. Specify to the translator whom he or she should contact regarding acronyms, abbreviations or neologisms.

4. If the topic is very specialized, provide text in the target language which the translator can consult.

5. Only specify that a translation is urgent when this is really necessary; you will not get the highest quality under those conditions.

When you hire the services of a translator:

1. To guarantee the translation service, submit it well in advance of the date required, and make an advance payment.

2. Help the translator to carry out his or her work by providing him or her with papers, glossaries or publications which deal with the subject area being interpreted.

We hope these suggestions have been helpful.

Suggestions provided by the Association of Translators and Interpreters of Monterrey, A.C.