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December 8, 2009 - #022

Table of Contents

1. Translation associations - Should you join one?
2. Do you have your own translation website?
3. Traditional Spanish Christmas carols
4. Quote: Think big

1. Should you join a translation association?

Being certified or not being certified is one of most common questions that translators ask themselves.

The second most common question seems to be whether or not it is worth it for a translator to join one of the many translation associations scattered throughout the globe.

First of all, for those that aren't familiar with translation associations, these organizations are for the most part intended to advocate for translators and the translation industry. They do this in a myriad of ways, including providing translation standards, addressing translation profession issues such as training, work condition, and recognition, and also providing best practices for translators. Some translation associations even offer certification programs, such as the one set up by the American Translators Association.

With that understanding, many translators want to know whether or not joining such an organization is worth the investment (usually a monetary one). Well, that usually depends on what you hope to get out of the organization. Most translators are looking for ways to increase their bottom line, usually by building their client base and attracting new business. Will joining a translation association help with this? Probably not directly. However, many translators use their membership in these types of organizations as a way to network with other translators, and this can sometimes indirectly lead to more clients.

If you're interested in learning more, you can read about some of the more well-known translation associations or give your own assessment of whether or not it's worth it to join such an organization.

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2. New Poll - How do you use the web to market your translation business?

I've said it over and over again, but I'll say it again. My freelance translation business would be nothing if it weren't for my online presence, and especially this website. Do you have an online presence specific to your freelance translation business? Take the translation poll and then check out how your fellow translators respond.

3. Traditional Spanish Carols

With Christmas just around the corner, there's no better time to listen to Christmas carols. I've just recently put up a page with Youtube videos of some of the more traditional Spanish Christmas carols. I recommend you listen to all of them and enjoy the variety of music that comes from different parts of the Spanish-speaking world.

4. Quote - Tim Ferris, Author of The 4-Hour Workweek: Escape 9-5, Live Anywhere, and Join the New Rich

“Think big and don't listen to people who tell you it can't be done. Life's too short to think small.”

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Anything you want to say? Let me know. I'd love to hear anything you've got to say, from suggestions to comments to your translation experiences. Just reply to this zine and tell me what you think!