With a global pandemic and a subsequent international recession having made 2020 an understandably difficult year for many translators, it can be nerve-wracking to think that we may be facing more of the same in 2021. So how can translators thrive during this new year of uncertainty?
All this depends on your situation, with some finding themselves with little work, some with too much, and others fortunately relatively unaffected. Regardless, there is plenty you can do to make the most of the year to come.
How Can Translators With Less Work Make the Most of 2021?
Many translators may have found themselves affected by the pandemic and recession with their employers or clients having less money to spend on translation services. If you have found yourself with more free time on your hands, it is easy to start spiraling with panicked thoughts about what the future may hold. This is never helpful and a better way to approach this situation is to make the most of the available time you have.
- Invest in Yourself
While you may have less work to do for your clients, there is almost certainly work you can do to help in your career. Invest in yourself and spend the time you may have spent working with clients on developing new professional skills, such as learning to use new software or heavily reading into a new specialism, helping to make you more in demand in the future.
The internet makes learning and training easier than ever, with countless hours of free content available on websites like YouTube to help you develop your career. There are many free courses available online to help develop your career if you find yourself with extra time, covering everything from coding, to marketing, and project management.
- Expand Your Horizons
It is a good idea to consider any other transferrable skills you may have to help you find extra work. Experience in translation is extremely useful in many other jobs, such as language teaching, research, interpreting, editing, and copywriting.
In times where you find you have less work available, it is a good idea to cast your net out further and consider options you may not have otherwise considered. You may even end up enjoying yourself more in a different field or making more money.
- Update Your Image
Investing in your professional image during quiet periods can also help you find more work in the future. Take the time to update your CV, LinkedIn profile, website, or any other platforms you may use for finding work as this will help with applying for work with any new employers and attracting new clients to your business.
- Reflect on Possible Improvements
It is also a good time for self-reflection and reflection on your career. Is there anything you could improve? Any new industries you should consider working in? Are you up to date with the latest technology? Could you be missing out on any opportunities?
All these options can help with not only making the most of 2021 but also building a solid foundation for your career and business to thrive in the years to come, putting you ahead of the competition.
How Can Busy Translators Make the Most of 2021?
While some translators may find themselves with less work due to the pandemic and recession, others might find that they are busier than ever. While being busy with work is generally something positive, it is important to not take on too much and let it overwhelm you.
- Stay Organized
First of all, it is important to be organized and a good way of doing this is to follow a schedule that includes regular breaks. You can use various tools and programs to help you stay on top of your responsibilities, from completing tasks and staying in touch with clients to administration and promoting your business.
- Follow a Schedule
Be sure to have a to-do list during busy periods as this will help in not feeling overwhelmed. It is also important to know your limits and to respect them. This means not taking on too much as ultimately your mental health, your professional standards, and your quality of life may be at risk.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Delegate
If you find yourself with too much on, then consider delegating any work you may be too busy for. This can also help other businesses and freelancers who may be struggling during this difficult period. It will also help you to make more time for yourself and your family, while also not risking allowing your personal life to affect your professional life.
Delegating tasks can help you stay up to date in matters you may be neglecting due to being so busy, such as marketing, your digital presence, and your professional image.
Tips for All Translators
All translators, indeed, all professionals working from home during this difficult period, should make sure to look after themselves. It’s all too easy in times of stress to let it get on top of you and not look after yourself, but this is not only negative for your professional life but also your mental health.
- Stay Healthy
Make sure to look after yourself by eating right, exercising, taking the time to go outside, and relaxing. Ultimately, respect and be nice to yourself. As most translators, like many other professionals, are now working from home, it is important to have a good working environment. You can read our tips on setting up an efficient home office here.
- Reflection and Mindfulness
It is also a good idea to reflect on the past year and your experiences in general, seeing if there is anything you could do to improve or update your business. Also, consider practicing meditation and mindfulness. If you haven’t meditated before, sit in a comfortable position with your eyes closed and focus on your breathing, noting any thoughts you may have but not reacting to them. Try to do this for around 20 minutes a day as it can really help in stressful times.
In short, while this is likely to be a strange year for many, healthy strategies can almost certainly help you cope.
