What does the future hold for translators and interpreters?

If words are your passion, you have an aptitude for languages and you speak more than one language fluently, you should consider studying translation and interpretation and maybe build a career out of it!

But what translators do exactly? Essentially, they translate books, documents, speeches and so much more, from a language to another.

Because of that, this field normally requires a real talent for foreign languages and a certain agility with words.  So, if you think you have what it takes to become a professional in translation and interpretation, this article is for you!

Translation VS Interpretation

Whether in law, literature, medicine or science, translators and interpreters always find the right way to bring words closer together and turn them into something beautiful.

But what is really the difference between these two professions?

We could say that translators take care of the written part, while interpreters look after the verbal part.  As a matter of fact, translators deal with writing rather than speaking, while interpreters translate verbally in real time.

Build up your future

Universities all over the world offer degrees and courses to guide students toward their future in translation and interpretation. To study these subjects, could lead to a really varied and interesting career.

But it is fair to say that, due to its variety, a career in this field doesn’t necessarily need a qualification, although it is advisable to get one.

In fact, the majority of translators belongs to translating associations and has the credentials that prove they have the knowledge and skills required to interpret and/or translate at a professional level.

It is important to say that, unlike many other jobs, this profession has the capability to evolve and to never be overtaken by technological advances.  Exactly for it, it is fundamental to always keep training and studying, learning new methodologies and procedures, in order to become a qualified and expert translator!

Study your native language as well as foreign languages

As said before, in order to become a professional translator and/or interpreter, it is important to continue studying and training not only in translation itself but also achieving an in-depth knowledge of your native language as well as the target language you decide to work with.

So start at the bottom and work your way up!

Choose the field you would like to specialise in and find the right educational path that could help you get the qualifications you need. Become a professional and turn your passion into a career!