The main job profile of a translator is converting one language and writing the same in another language. Translators will work specifically only with written material, spoken words will be translated by the interpreter.
Today, with the increase in multinational economy, the need for good translators is increasing rapidly. Many people learn more than one language but this is not the only requirement for becoming a professional translator. However, every translator needs to know minimum of two languages.
Translation is more than just translating one word of language into another. Not every word will be translated in the perfect manner, and not every word will have the same meaning in another language.
To translate the words along with the same concept, the translator needs to have excellent comprehension skills for understanding what they are reading. Editing and writing skills are also important, as translators have to rework every sentence, so that every translated material is easily readable and cohesive.
Translators usually work on documents that are complex and lengthy usually a book, medical journal, press release or academic papers. If the translator does not have the knowledge on a topic they are working on, then they will have to research on the topic for ensuring that the concepts and ideas translated are correct.
There is no specific qualification required for becoming a translator. Many people these days grow up bilingual, but others learn languages in their schools, high schools or by living in foreign countries.
Organizations prefer hiring someone who has some good background in translating or someone with an advanced degree in interpretation or foreign language. Along with this you will also need a covering letter to support your resume for getting a job interview call. Writing a cover letter is simple and does not need that much effort.
Here is a sample cover letter, which will guide you further.
Employer Contact Information
Ms. Brenda Williams
Wisdom Communications,
2745 Riverdale Drive,
Manhattan, NY93746
Date:
Dear Ms. Williams,
I would like to work as a Freelance Translator and have attached my resume and would like to be considered for your organization. I am sure that my knowledge in foreign languages will be very beneficial for your organization and I will surely be an asset to Wisdom Communications.
Here is a summary of my experience and knowledge, which you can find in detail with my attached resume:
I have a good range of fluidity in all the preferred languages and I am very well fluent in them. This is how I know that when my skills are clubbed with personality, I would be beneficial to the clients as well as for Wisdom Communications.
I am looking forward to meeting you in person to discuss this opportunity in detail. You can call me at 735-284-1784 or e-mail me at j.emma@example.com. Thank you so much for reviewing my application.
Sincerely,
Emma James
Your Signature
Enclosure: Resume and References
You can write your cover letter in the similar manner or make the required changes. However, make sure that you have checked the letter for typos and sent a crisp copy to the recruiter.