I’ve often received questions about translation agencies, how to find the good ones, how to apply to them, and how to work with them. That is what I’m covering in this episode. In the search to find a steady stream of clients, sometimes working with a translation agency can be your best bet, at least at the beginning of your career.

Important things mentioned in this episode:

• What marketing material we need to find and apply to translation agencies
• What to include in your resume optimized for translation work
• What to include in a cover letter/email
• How to create a successful working relationship with translation agencies

Useful links related to this episode:

• Working with Translation Agencies – and Loving It
• Effective Emails to Translation Agencies
• 4 Checklists for Applying to Translation Agencies

Links to translation agency databases:

• American Translators Associations Directory
• Payment Practices
• Proz.com list of translation companies

Download a template for a translation CV/Resume and cover letter here:

Get a template for an optimized CV and cover letter to apply to translation agencies.

Take a few hours to research potential agencies. Try to get a list of 100 agencies that pass the criteria mentioned above. Contact them by their preferred method of contact. You can perhaps contact five a day, or five a week, depending on your schedule, and don’t forget to follow up if you do not hear from them.

Be realistic about the work you can or cannot produce, and be honest with your translation service provider. You will be respected for knowing both your capabilities and your limits.

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