A medical translation company ensures precision through specialized workflows, expert translators, and compliance with local regulations.
Translation for localization calls for a unique set of skills and characteristics such that the translation adapts to the culture of the audience. When selecting translators for localization, a hiring manager must look for the following characteristics:
Firstly, the translator must be a native speaker of the target language and must have near native proficiency in the source language, with a deep understating of the language and its cultural nuances.
Next, knowledge of the culture of the target audience is essential. For this a formal education & training in not just translation and linguistics but also language, literature, and culture become necessary.
It is equally important to find a translator who has domain expertise. A translator with expertise in specific industry or subject matter, be it technical, legal, oil & gas, medical, education or software, is an asset to the localization process. Each domain has its own language, register and terminology, a grasp over which contributes largely to the quality and accuracy of translation.
When translating marketing content, transcreation is a trend that is catching on. One is required not just to translate the words but to transfer the message along with the impact that the source text set out to achieve. This requires creative ability, and skill in writing, and not just in translating. The translator must be able to go beyond the shackles of the written word and the structure of the text, creating an original piece of writing.
Quality control processes are part of the overall translation process. The translator themselves should have their own quality control process in place, so that the work of the reviewer is limited only to checking for errors if any, and not actually to making improvements. A translator who relies on the reviewer to correct their work is only half doing their work. Due diligence and quality check is part of the translator’s work.
Knowledge of localization tools CAT tools (Computer-Aided-Translation software) and translation management systems (TMS) help in streamlining the localization process. In today’s technologically advanced world, knowledge of software is of paramount importance.
A translator is a team member, and interpersonal skills are important for a translator as for any other team member. A good translator must get along, be a good communicator and must coordinate tasks is unison with other stakeholders. Translation project management calls for flexibility in the way of working and adaptability to client requirements and those of other team members. Needless to say, punctuality and time management are critical when working in a team, and to honour client expectations.
Ethics pertaining to maintaining privacy and security of data especially when dealing with sensitive information, are respected, and expected. Translators safeguard not just the interest of the client, but also their professional standing when they honor confidentiality and professional ethics.
Professional standards of localization are applicable to every linguist who aspires to be a localizer, translator, and trans-creator.
Related Article:
Who Qualifies as a Good Translator
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Vikram Malhotra is the Founder and CEO of Wordpar International.
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