How to Bid on a Translation Job
If you are fluent in a second language, you can earn money translating audio and text for clients. Book publishers, self-published authors and entrepreneurs all need translation services to increase their customer bases and increase sales. Successfully landing translation projects involves more than simply knowing how to correctly translate text and audio to and from another language. It requires the ability to provide prospective clients with attractive bids that gain clients' attention, and to show clients that you are the right person for the job.
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Instructions
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Find translation projects by searching for project listings on an online freelancing site, such as Guru, Get a Freelancer or Elance. Sign up for an account on these sites to bid on projects.
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Establish an online portfolio of past work. You can post examples on your website or blog. Some freelancing websites also allow you to post samples directly on your provider profile.
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Research acceptable rates by visiting the profiles of other translators on freelancing websites and browsing their completed projects.
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Select a bid amount based on the rates charged by other freelance translators on similar projects.
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Compose your bid. Describe your past experience translating audio or text and provide testimonials from past clients to establish credibility. Note any high-profile projects you have completed, such as the translation of published books or easily recognizable websites.
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Provide a detailed description of the terms of your bid. State how long it will take for you to complete the project, and whether you will deliver the entire translation at the end of the project or according to milestones. Tell the client when you expect payment so he can budget in advance.
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Answer any questions posed by the client promptly. Providing rapid responses shows the client that you are easy to work with and care about her needs, which can increase her interest in hiring you to complete the translation project.
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Tips & Warnings
Request a portion of the bid amount at the beginning of the project. This conveys a sense of confidence, and allows you to devote your full attention to the translation project without worrying about whether you will be paid.
Avoid placing a low bid in an attempt to sway the client's decision based on price. The client may view a low bid as a sign that you are not confident in the quality of your work.
