How can you get feedback on your translation work remotely?

To get feedback on your translation work, there are some methods, which are currently used by translation companies. Firstly, you can get insights about your work from your project manager or head of translation who informs you via online platforms and CAT tools. Secondly, getting feedback on your work from the customer gives an advantage to translators to improve their translation and editing skills by being adapted to customers' desires. And then, revising and looking through your work helps you to understand and adapt to source text and to translate documents associated with various fields effectively.

Depending on the type of feedback you seek, various methods are available. For enhancing creativity in writing, options include online discussion groups, training programs, or seeking input from trusted friends or linguistic colleagues. Automated tools like Ginger offer scoring and suggestions. For more comprehensive feedback, platforms may differ in their capabilities, some facilitating communication, scoring, and amendment return. If unsure about using these features or if they're unavailable, direct communication via email or other platforms with your point of contact is advisable. Adapting to different client preferences is key, as what works for one may not suit another.

To receive feedback on your translation work remotely, utilize online platforms and tools designed for collaboration. Joining communities of translators on websites like ProZ or TranslatorsCafe, or social media groups, allows for sharing work and gaining insights from peers. Additionally, leveraging tools like Google Docs, Dropbox, or CAT tools enables file sharing, change tracking, and commenting, facilitating easy exchange of feedback and suggestions with colleagues and professionals.

If a client doesn't send feedback directly, I simply look up my work online - whether it's a press release, report, research, survey, etc. - then re-read it abstractly and objectively, paying attention to the client’s modifications if any, specifying the terms he changed to add them to the glossary dedicated to him.

I use Google Docs all the time to share files. Communication and collaboration is key. I have a couple of close friends who also are translators and of course we help one another. Using Teams, Zoom and jitsi online meetings as well.

There are numerous professional mentors, classes, online groups, and platforms where you can seek the opinions of like-minded individuals. It's advisable to seek feedback within your field or writing style, as opinions can vary widely. In the translation industry, writing professionally in alignment with client goals is crucial. Take time to explain the brief you aimed to meet with your writing, clarifying aspects like character limits or transcreative approaches. This provides mentors with context for more accurate critique. Remember to prioritise confidentiality; share only test pieces, not client work.

There are tons of experienced colleagues willing to help you or work along with you. Look for them on LinkedIn or whatever social media suits you best, look for someone working in the same areas of specialization or someone whose life inspires you, and reach out to them.

To get feedback on your translation work remotely, seek out mentors and editors experienced in the field. Utilize online platforms like MentorCruise, Reedsy, or Upwork to find professionals with the right expertise, or tap into your existing network of contacts, including former teachers, colleagues, or clients, for guidance, advice, and constructive criticism. These individuals can provide valuable feedback and may also offer referrals to enhance your translation skills and career.

I have a network of friends who are colleagues. I also have a couple of former teachers in my network. I will be looking into these online platforms mentioned here, thank you for the very useful hint.

The key to getting feedback is to simply ask for it. Whether you're collaborating with an agency or working directly with a client, seeking feedback demonstrates initiative and a commitment to improvement, which should be valued. If you don't receive feedback, don't be discouraged – sometimes there simply isn't any. Your contact may not speak the language or hasn't received any feedback to share. In cases where feedback is provided, it's important to explore it further as there may be underlying issues to address, such as missing instructions or a misunderstanding of the context. If you receive feedback that you don't fully understand or agree with, consider requesting a follow-up discussion to clarify.

Requesting feedback directly from your clients is a valuable method for improving your remote translation work. This approach helps you gauge their satisfaction, understand their preferences, and pinpoint areas needing improvement. You can solicit client feedback through surveys, testimonials, or by asking them to rate your work. Additionally, seeking specific feedback on aspects like accuracy, style, or terminology can provide targeted insights for enhancing the quality of your translations.

Quand j'envoie mes traductions aux clients, dans le dernier paragraphe de mon mail, je leur demande de me laisser un avis sur mon profil Google. Certains le font, et j'ai ainsi une série d'avis et de commentaires positifs sur mon travail.

The fact that you create an online space where your clients can get an overview of your translation process can be a great way to establish trust and also to reduce the friction of receiving unsolicited feedback from your client. Compiling templates or pre-made lists of localized terms, industry-specific jargon, common expressions, or ambiguous terms could enhance communication, reducing the need for extensive revisions. This strategy is notably effective in engaging new clients. Leveraging tools such as Notion or Craft for template creation streamlines this process. The overarching goal is to ensure the delivery of precise, impactful translations, underscoring the critical role of feedback in elevating translation quality.

Unsere Übersetzungen unterstehen immer einer doppelten Qualitätskontrolle. Die Fachbegriffen sind mit dem Kunden abgesprochen. Der Kunde prüft die Übersetzung und wir passen allfällige Verbesserungen an.

Studies suggest allowing at least 24 hours before reviewing your own work, if possible. If immediate time isn't available, taking a short break, whether it's a screen break, some fresh air, or a meal, can help refresh your mind for a more effective review. CAT tools often offer basic QA features, and software like Word can assist in identifying grammar and spelling issues. However, it's crucial to refer back to the project scope or briefing document to ensure you've met the objectives and adhered to any specific guidelines or terminology provided. Additionally, if you're unsure about context or have any doubts, it's essential to research or consult with the client for clarification.

One thing I've found helpful when revising my own work is using the read-aloud option with the target document while reading the source.

Something that works quite well for me is to do the translation, review it and, when time permits, try not to read it again until a few hours later or even until the next day. Sometimes when we look at the same text so many times without pausing, it is difficult to identify mistakes. With a few hours difference our focus changes and allows us to see things we didn't see before.

One method that works best for me is to let the translation rest for at least one day. This allows me to find mistakes that I would've not seen otherwise. Also, the read-aloud feature helps you to find some mistakes regarding structure, redaction, and more (or you can read it aloud yourself!).

Self-evaluation is a critical method for receiving feedback on your remote translation work. It fosters self-awareness, enhances critical thinking, and aids in learning from both mistakes and successes. To evaluate your own work effectively, consider using checklists, rubrics, or quality assurance tools. Comparing your translations against other works or reference materials, and revisiting your work after a period, can also offer valuable insights into areas for improvement and reinforce best practices in translation.

When discussing feedback, consider the sender. I.E. If you're receiving feedback through an agency, it's likely coming from the end client or an external reviewer and not personally from the intermediary. Feedback is usually an invitation to hear your thoughts too. While much of the feedback is well-intended and actionable, it's essential to recognise that some of it may be subjective, influenced by personal preferences, or arise due to missing guidelines or glossaries. In such cases, it's important to remain composed and seek clarification if you have doubts about the feedback. Explaining your word choices or suggesting additions to a personal glossary or client style guide based on feedback can be beneficial for future reference.

Responding positively to feedback on your remote translation work is essential for building rapport, demonstrating professionalism, and enhancing your reputation. Show appreciation to those who provide feedback by thanking them, acknowledging their points, and asking for further clarification or examples if needed. Implementing their suggestions and following up with them not only shows your commitment to improvement but also encourages continuous constructive dialogue, fostering professional growth and development.

There are various ways to respond to feedback. It should always be kind and constructive. Enhance your credibility by showing your willingness to learn. You can express your opinion politely, although it may be candid and straight forward.

It's always good to receive feedback, even if it's about your mistakes. Why? Because it helps you to learn, grow, and not to repeat them. Be thankful when receiving feedback, and appreciate it, because not everyone takes the time to evaluate your work, and to let you know what they think about it.

Obtenir des commentaires sur mon travail à distance n'est pas compliqué, surtout avec l'existence de canaux de communication tels que Gmail, LinkedIn, WhatsApp, etc. En ce qui me concerne, je préfère souvent demander à mes clients de laisser un avis honnête sur la qualité du service après avoir effectué un travail, principalement à travers les recommandations sur LinkedIn. Je leur envoie un lien pour ceux qui me suivent sur LinkedIn. Pour ceux qui ne me suivent pas sur cette plateforme ou ne sont pas sur LinkedIn, ils peuvent le faire via WhatsApp ou simplement par email.

Bruce Lee once said, "Learning is a constant process of discovery, and one without end." In the realm of writing, seeking regular feedback is vital. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting out, feedback is inevitable and invaluable. It exposes you to various tones, styles, and audience expectations, fostering continual improvement. Embrace every opportunity for feedback, articulating your rationale behind your choices. Remember, feedback is a dialogue that showcases your competence and thoughtfulness in your craft, as well as an opportunity for growth and learning. Willingness to engage with feedback will often lead to a collaborative engagement.

Seeking feedback regularly on your remote translation work is crucial for maintaining your skills, monitoring progress, and adapting to changing demands. To do this effectively, set clear goals and deadlines for yourself, request feedback at various stages of your work, and participate in ongoing or periodic feedback programs or sessions. This consistent approach to receiving feedback can help ensure continuous improvement and alignment with the evolving expectations of clients and the translation industry.

Por melhor que sejamos em algo, o cliente final é quem decide se está do agrado dele ou não. Peço constantes feedbacks para deixar o produto final do agrado do cliente. Dependendo do projeto, peço para outro revisor da empresa ler a minha revisão final e apontar mudanças que ele faria. Como trabalhamos juntos há 20 anos, contribuímos facilmente uns com os outros. Depois de alguns apontamentos, eu filtro o que é estilo pessoal do segundo revisor do que realmente pode ficar melhor. Faço o mesmo trabalho para os demais revisores com quem trabalho. Ter 20 anos de casa, clientes fixos e uma equipe unida torna o feedback regular nossa melhor arma para a qualidade.

When asking for feedback remember that it should be a two-way street. It takes time to provide quality and actionable feedback. On the other hand, beware of non-constructive feedback (both positive and negative) that doesn't help you improve. Finally, don't confuse feedback with referrals.

Demander des commentaires, surtout à travers les recommandations de LinkedIn, même si le client ne les donne pas spontanément, est une bonne approche. Cela me permet non seulement d'améliorer la qualité de mon service mais aussi de montrer à ceux qui envisagent de travailler avec moi qu'ils peuvent me confier leurs projets sans craintes.

Feedback often doesn't reflect the quality of your writing. It may stem from inaccurate instructions, miscommunication, or a lack of reference materials. Furthermore, feedback can come from individuals with varying linguistic backgrounds, impacting the clarity and relevance of their comments. It's important to approach feedback with patience, aiming to understand its message and how to address it. Distinguish between actionable feedback, specific requests for changes, and non-actionable feedback, such as stylistic preferences. When receiving feedback, does it align with the objectives outlined in the initial instructions? Engage in constructive discussions to clarify expectations and find mutually agreeable solutions for moving forward.

I would like to add that it's useful to be familiar with the cultural environment. For example, in Finland where I'm from, we usually express ourselves very promptly. We are straight forward people and brutally honest. Keep it simple is our motto.

How to do so..., well, I personally ask my clients to answer a survey, or at least some of it, hehehehe. Simple Example: Translation and Interpretation Services Survey Dear Customer, Thank you for choosing our services. Please take a moment to rate your experience: 1. Service Details: - Date: - Type (Translation/Interpretation): - Language Pair(s): - Overall Satisfaction (1-5): 2. Quality: - Accuracy: - Timeliness: - Professionalism: 3. Communication: - Satisfaction with communication (1-5) 4. Support: - Satisfaction with customer support (1-5) 5. Additional Comments: - Any feedback? 6. Likelihood to Recommend: - Would you recommend us? (1-5) Thank you! Sincerely, [Your Company Name]