Last updated on Jul 29, 2024

Here's how you can skillfully address feedback from translation reviewers.

Translation work is a craft that hinges on precision and cultural sensitivity, and receiving feedback from reviewers is an integral part of refining your skills. When you get notes on your translations, it's an opportunity to learn and grow professionally. By engaging with the feedback constructively, you can improve your accuracy and nuance in language. It's important to remember that translation is not just about swapping words between languages, but also about conveying meaning and context as accurately as possible. So, let's dive into how you can skillfully address feedback from your translation reviewers and turn it into a stepping stone for excellence in your work.

1 Embrace Critique

Welcoming feedback, even when it's critical, is fundamental to your growth as a translator. When you receive comments from reviewers, approach them with an open mind. Understand that each piece of feedback is aimed at enhancing the quality of your work. It's not personal; it's professional. Take the time to thoroughly read through the suggestions and identify areas where you agree with the reviewer. This will not only improve the current project but will also inform your approach to future translations.

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Mini Garg

🎯 Writer | Linguist | I help in native #Hindi translation of subtitles, websites, data & documents | I write SEO friendly #English blogs and corporate content | Remote | Using on-demand CAT Tools | Transcriber
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Critique can help you more than a sentence filled with sweet words can. A feedback that has details about "what's wrong" can help you improve your skills drastically!

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2 Analyze Errors

Once you've accepted the feedback, it's time to dissect it. Look for patterns in the errors pointed out by the reviewer. Are they grammatical mistakes, issues with tone, or inaccuracies in conveying the original meaning? By pinpointing the type of mistakes, you can focus on these specific areas in your next translations. This targeted approach to addressing feedback will lead to fewer repeats of the same errors and a more refined translation process overall.

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Mini Garg

🎯 Writer | Linguist | I help in native #Hindi translation of subtitles, websites, data & documents | I write SEO friendly #English blogs and corporate content | Remote | Using on-demand CAT Tools | Transcriber
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When you received a feedback with the error report then it can be your guiding point to understand where your translation didn't meet the standards or you will have a place to start, at least.

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3 Research Thoroughly

In cases where you disagree with the feedback, do your research before responding. It's possible that the reviewer has a different interpretation of a term or phrase. Dive into dictionaries, style guides, or consult with other professionals if necessary. Gathering evidence to support your translation choices shows that you're committed to accuracy and professionalism. It also helps in creating a dialogue with the reviewer that's based on facts and expertise, rather than opinion.

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4 Communicate Clearly

When responding to feedback, clarity is key. If you have questions or need clarification on certain points, don't hesitate to ask the reviewer. A clear and respectful communication will facilitate a better understanding of the feedback. Explain your choices where necessary, and be open to discussing alternative translations. This two-way communication ensures that both you and the reviewer are on the same page and working towards the common goal of producing the best translation possible.

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Mini Garg

🎯 Writer | Linguist | I help in native #Hindi translation of subtitles, websites, data & documents | I write SEO friendly #English blogs and corporate content | Remote | Using on-demand CAT Tools | Transcriber
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Clear communication is always the major point in all projects. Make sure you understand the requirements and expectations correctly before diving into the projects. It will help you improve your translation as well.

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5 Implement Changes

After understanding and discussing the feedback, it's time to put it into action. Make the necessary changes to your translation with care. This step is not just about editing your work; it's about learning and applying new knowledge. Each edit should be made with the intention of improving your skill set. As you implement changes, you're also internalizing the feedback, which will benefit your future translation projects.

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Eugenia T.

Translating your content with your target audience in mind
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Even if your client only needs you to implement changes into the final doc, make sure to implement them in the translation in your CAT tool as well, so that your TM stays up-to-date and functional.

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6 Reflect and Learn

Finally, reflection is a powerful tool in your professional development. After addressing all the feedback and finalizing the translation, take a moment to reflect on what you've learned from the process. Consider how the feedback has contributed to your understanding of the language and translation techniques. This introspective step will cement the knowledge you've gained and prepare you for even more complex translation tasks ahead.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Here's how you can skillfully address feedback from translation reviewers.

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1 Embrace Critique

2 Analyze Errors

3 Research Thoroughly

4 Communicate Clearly

5 Implement Changes

6 Reflect and Learn

7 Here’s what else to consider

Translation

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