1Marta Stelmaszak

www.wantwords.co.uk

5 1/2 LESSONS ON WORKING AS A FREELANCE TRANSLATOR

STUDENT CASE STUDYI don’t know of any testimonials more comprehensive than students’ case studies. That’s why I asked Emeline Jamoul of In Touch Translations (a great translator) to tell you something about her time at the seventh edition of the course in April 2014.

First, Emeline, we’d like to know how your situation looked like before taking part in the School. How did you see your business? What were your biggest problems? How did you feel in the translation industry?

“Before taking part in the Business School, my business was doing okay. I received work regularly and had a number of faithful clients who I could count on. However, I felt like my business skills could use a little push. Having studied languages, linguistics, literature and the likes, I had absolutely no idea how to market my services!

Let’s move on to the moment you found the School course. Where did you first read or hear about it? What were your first thoughts? What

made you interested in it?

I found Marta’s blog while doing research to become a freelancer. I found it full of great advice. It really

helped me to think of aspects I needed to take into account once my business was in full gear. I found

the School through this blog, but it took me a few months to realize that it would be of great value to me. Indeed, I was interested in learning more about how to negotiate with clients and how to find more direct clients.

What hesitations did you have about taking part in the School?

None whatsoever – I knew I was in good hands!

2Marta Stelmaszak

www.wantwords.co.uk

What changes have you noticed in your business, in terms of your mind set, but also clients?

I am definitely more confident to approach new clients because I know where my strengths lie and what sets me apart from people offering similar services. I’m also firmer when it comes to negotiate rates and not accepting work if I don’t agree with the terms of the collaboration. Finally, I think it’s safe to say that I have gained a broader insight of the translation industry.

What specific feature did you like best about the School?

I really liked the interactivity of the lessons. Even though we are not in the same classroom, Marta tries to make her course more alive by asking us questions and making us answer through the chat room feature. It’s also nice to have a quick chat with the other Schoolers. I don’t want to forget to mention the closed Facebook group to which all Schoolers have access. It’s a great way to stay in touch with all the other students and to build a sense of community among us.

How have you benefited from it?

Immensely!

Would you recommend the School course? If so, why?

I would recommend it to new translators or to anyone wishing to take their business to the next level. Having studied business and economics, Marta shares her knowledge with her students. This is literally the best thing to do if you can’t afford doing an MBA!

Now, thinking of your current situation, some 3 months after the end of the School course. How do you see your business? What are your biggest challenges now? How do you feel in the translation industry?

I feel more in control of my business now. The challenges I face are not the same that I used to face before taking part in the school. Now, they relate more to time-management and finding the time to market my services in a consistent way.

Thank you, Emeline, for sharing your story. I sincerely hope your career will continue growing as successfully as in the last few months.

If after reading Emeline’s story you’re interested in joining the course, book here. In case of any questions, drop me a line.

Marta