If you work across international borders, or are looking apply for a long-term visa to live in another country, chances are you will be looking to have several documents translated in order to do so. Many applications a translated document will be used for will have requirements attached to it, and one of those might be they are completed by a certified translator. These translators are of a different vein than others who can perform the service, and there is one simple fact why- they have completed the appropriate training and have earned their certification from an accredited agency.
Becoming Certified
The process of becoming a certified translator simply requires a few things in order to be accredited, including taking a certification test that will test and legitimize your skill set. Tests are designed to run a translator through different scenarios, all with the same goal: ultimate accuracy. These tests act as proof that your skills are up to par, and will give clients the affirmation you have the skills necessary for their needs. The certification also allows you to join professional organizations and keep connected with additional trainings and benefits afforded to you from the certifying agency.
Why Choose Certification?
Having a certification under your belt allows you to be seen as reliable and tested, something clients are looking for when dealing with critical translation needs. Your certification opens doors to long term contracts for translation services from businesses, consulates, and a variety of other entities that need a trustworthy service. International adoption agencies, study-abroad companies, as well as travel agencies all need to have a translator within quick reach for solid translation work, and your choice to verify your skills through certification will place your name in their contact lists.
Not Having Certification
A certification isn’t needed to complete these documents for clients, but having it opens many doors that simply wouldn’t be available without it. Having that piece of paper is something like having a degree from a university- you have the knowledge, and have gone through the steps to verify it for your clients and employers. You still can advertise for translation services without one, and you certainly can bid for jobs, but your prospects are less without the certification to back up your claims. Having taken the required tests shows your clients that you are reliable and trustworthy, and know how to complete the often difficult translations they are in need of having completed.