Starting a small translation business means that you will be your own boss.
How does that sound to you? If you like the idea of being a translator but not so sure about working at a large company or for a translation firm, you may find that it is a good time to strike out on your own.
There are many different things that you should keep in mind.
The first thing that you should consider is the scope of your business.
Find out where your expertise is or could be.
Do you do most of your work in commercial translation or in medical or technical fields? Do you have experience with legal documents? Many small translation businesses struggle because they only offer one type of product or service.
They run the risk of losing the continuity of income and have to constantly look for new clients.
That is tough.
You should try to create different levels of language services and products as this will bring repeat customers.
That is another important step to a successful translation business.
Like any small business you will need a good business plan.
Not only will it help set goals out for your business, but also put together a realistic budget.
You can use a business plan to gauge your success and your needs.
Of course, you need to talk to your potential clients.
Understand what they want and need, and what their problems are.
Provide services that cater to their needs.
Remember when starting a small translation business you need to be updated with current information in the industry.
Follow the right websites and read magazines.
To get clients, you need to make you and your business visible.
You should network regularly, weekly preferably.
Get online with a strong website and look at the forums that translators hang out on.
Also look on forums for people who have posted work.
Join local chamber of commerce events and introduce yourself to others with a well-prepared entry speech.
The internet is an amazing resource if you are looking at getting started with a small translation business and it is one medium that you are going to need to be fluent in.
Take advantage of the social medium and blogs as well.
Send articles to related sites, papers and magazines.
Send emails or newsletters to your friends and family regarding you and your business.
Ask for referrals.
This is just the beginning of starting a small translation business.
When you are interested in moving forward, make sure that you look for all resources are out there to help you.