The translation process
How we achieve the best results for you
Based on our chat, I draw up a tailored and non-binding estimate for your job.
I then use all of this prep to express your ideas in stylish but straight-to-the-point English.
Not content with being an eagle-eyed proofreader, I also use some handy tech tools so your text is as perfect as it can be.
I'll also proof the text in its final format – online or in print – because typesetting is a tricky business.
I’m happy to make tweaks and changes so we get the right result for you.
Never bought a translation before?
Here are some handy hints for buyers.
I want to order a translation. How does it work?
The simplest way is to email me the text so I can take a look at it or give me a buzz so we can discuss your needs. Based on our chat, I’ll let you know what the best solution is and send you a non-binding estimate. We’ll agree everything up front so we both know what’s expected. And I’ll be in touch before delivery to give you an update and query any flabby phrasing.
First-time buyer?
Commissioning a translation is not as daunting as it may seem. It’s my job to guide you through the process, so get in touch and tell me what your problem is.
I’d also recommend these excellent guides for buyers: Translation: Getting It Right and Translation: Buying a non-commodity.
How much will it cost?
I charge on a project-by-project basis because every job is different.
And I issue no-obligation estimates, which include a breakdown of everything involved, because clear communication throughout the project is as important to me as it is to you, right from the very start.
How long does it take to translate a text?
The ‘turnaround time’ depends on the length of your document. As a rough guide, I translate 2,000 words per day. Highly specialised or creative texts may take longer, but we’ll discuss this in advance.
If you’re not sure how long the document is, send it over and I can calculate that for you.
Planning, lead-time and downtime are very important, so get in touch as early as you can!
I have a document in English for translation. Can you help?
Yes and no. I only translate into English because that is my mother tongue (see ITI Code of Conduct). Of course, I’ll do my utmost to put you in touch with a suitable colleague who can help.
What don’t you do?
The quality of your content is paramount, so I never take on projects where I can’t provide a tip-top translation.
I do not provide sworn translations because that system does not exist in the UK, but I can certify my work, which is the most commonly accepted equivalent over here.
And my work only involves the written word, so I do not offer interpreting services.
How can you guarantee that all my documents have the same style?
I use specialist software to make sure that terminology and phrasing are consistent within the translated document and from project to project. This also means that I can easily incorporate any reference material you may have.
Help for buyers
Not sure where to start? Try these fab guides for size.
What my clients say
