| An event arranged jointly by the University of Westminster and ITI, with support from the National Networks for Translation and for Interpreting within the Routes into Languages initiative. Saturday 9th June 2012, 09.30-16.30 Are you interested in working as a translator or interpreter, but unsure how to start? This one-day seminar should answer questions for new translators / interpreters on: • Training • Generalist or specialist translating & different types of interpreting • Building a portfolio of clients • Working for translation companies • Marketing • Pricing Fees: • Undergraduate students - free of charge • Postgraduate students - £20 including VAT • ITI/ FIT organisation members - £35 including VAT • Nonmembers - £45 including VAT To register please complete the booking form below. |
| Full address University of Westminster London United Kingdom |
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| Additional informationBooking Form - SWATI Westminster |
Wednesday, 23 May 2012
STARTING WORK AS A TRANSLATOR OR INTERPRETER
Monday, 7 May 2012
What is customer care in the translation industry?
A friend of mine recently started a new job, and was asked by his employer to call existing customers for testimonials for the company website, only to find that they had many unhappy customers. He had recorded the complaints and passed them on to the orders department following his manager's advice. His manager also told him to copy messages to number of others so that he could prove he had passed them on. As the unhappy customers would not give him any testimonials, he had to continue calling his other customers in hope of a positive testimonial.
I asked my friend whether he would follow up the complaints he received. He said he wouldn't because it was "not his job". I then asked if he was going to check with the department in question if they have dealt with the complaints: the answer was "no" as he did not want to make his colleagues uncomfortable. This made me wonder if the complaint would ever be resolved.
Wikipedia describes customer care as "the provision of service to customers before, during and after a purchase": any responsible company would of course agree with this statement, but as we can clearly see from my friend's example, some companies are not very keen on the after sales phase of customer service process.
If we accept Wikipedia's description, then what is the implication of this in terms of the translation services we provide to our customers? The translation industry is not any different to any other service industry and customer satisfaction is the key to any company's success.
The key to preventing customers becoming unhappy with our services is focusing on delivering benefits to our customers at all times: all employees need to see this as their responsibility. Delivering benefits to our customers however is not as easy as it sounds, it requires total commitment to customer care, which needs to be incorporated into the translation company's culture and organisation structure. Only this will provide total customer satisfaction.
Translation company managers/owners need to find ways to measure the progress and make 'delivering benefits' their top priority.
Levent Yildizgoren
Saturday, 5 May 2012
How to protect your online reputation
Our online reputation is becoming more and more important every day. What is said and posted online stays online, having effects on how other people see and perceive us. People and businesses often make their choices following online searches. Another aspect of this is of course protecting our online reputation making sure that what is out there is actually belongs to us and we are not a victim of any identity fraud or malicious activity.
There are commercial products out there such as Garlik.com for identity protection. We can also take simple precautions that will not cost anything. It goes without saying that being cautious and sensible online is very important for not becoming a victim of a phishing attack, or ghost sites etc.
Probably the best tool to use is Google's 'Me on the Web' tool which was introduced last year.
'Me on the Web,” is now included on the Google dashboard. This is easy to setup and can used for managing online identity and
removing unwanted content. You can also setup Google Alerts that inform you should your name appear in any blogs or news without your consent. The links contain plenty of useful information and tips for good practices.
Managing our online identity should be part of a good online practice and Google's tool seems to be providing a good and effective solution.
Thursday, 16 April 2009
ITI Conference Sponsor TTC Language Services, Ltd. Brings Value-Added Services to the Language Industry
Chelmsford, Essex – TTC Language Services, Ltd. is proud to announce their sponsorship of the 2009 ITI (Institute of Translation and Interpreting) International Conference on 16-17 May 2009.
TTC brings their renowned language services to direct clients, multi-language vendors, and translation companies alike. With over 100 languages in their repertoire, TTC’s mission is to help clients and translation companies excel in the growing and changing field of language communications. In keeping with this year’s ITI conference theme, “Sustainability in Translation,” TTC plans to continue to promote the sustainability of the language industry by working closely with other ITI member companies and frequently employing the services of ITI’s freelance members to advance collective knowledge and professional standards.
A competitive and flexible firm, TTC offers translation, interpretation, and localization services to commercial businesses, governments, and charities.
Dedicated to their mission of communicating across boundaries, TTC Language Services, Ltd. is a strong partner for organizations interested in language related services and training.
Tel: +44 (0)1245 216930 | Fax: +44 (0)870 199 1008
TTC Language Services Ltd | 86 Broomfield Road | Chelmsford | Essex | CM1 1SS | UK
www.ttcltd.com
TTC brings their renowned language services to direct clients, multi-language vendors, and translation companies alike. With over 100 languages in their repertoire, TTC’s mission is to help clients and translation companies excel in the growing and changing field of language communications. In keeping with this year’s ITI conference theme, “Sustainability in Translation,” TTC plans to continue to promote the sustainability of the language industry by working closely with other ITI member companies and frequently employing the services of ITI’s freelance members to advance collective knowledge and professional standards.
A competitive and flexible firm, TTC offers translation, interpretation, and localization services to commercial businesses, governments, and charities.
Dedicated to their mission of communicating across boundaries, TTC Language Services, Ltd. is a strong partner for organizations interested in language related services and training.
Tel: +44 (0)1245 216930 | Fax: +44 (0)870 199 1008
TTC Language Services Ltd | 86 Broomfield Road | Chelmsford | Essex | CM1 1SS | UK
www.ttcltd.com
Thursday, 27 November 2008
Look for overseas opportunities to beat down current economic downturn
In these dire economic times, it is tempting for many businesses to shore up their finances and avoid taking what would be perceived in sounder times as run-of-the-mill financial risks. But while many businesses are battening down the hatches and trying to “wait it out” for a better economic forecast, they have failed to realize that in today’s global economy, eager customers and partners for their business may be closer than they can possibly imagine. That is why, when your competitors are treating the current economic situation as a crisis, as a savvy businessperson, you can use this time to expand your business by reaching out to new, untapped international markets.
Chances are that your business is examining every aspect of its operations in order to cut costs or discover new sources of income. What you might not have considered is that an overseas supplier may be able to replace one component in your supply chain at a much lower cost, or that customers in another part of the world might pay a premium for your products or services. Perhaps you already work in a multicultural, multilingual organization, or wish to open a base of operations in another country. It is often said that, with the advent of technology, the world is much smaller now than ever before. That is true, but no matter how small the world may seem, it can still be very daunting to reach across borders, cultures, and language barriers to find the absolute best solution for your business needs. But say you have identified an opportunity, or a part of your business that you think could benefit from a change. So how do you start?
First, a review of your current international communications strengths is in order. You will likely find that many of your staff and business contacts have some international experience. They may know a foreign language, or have spent significant time in a different culture. You may even already be an international business with staff members stationed in countries around the world. It is important to note that, while having a staff member who is conversant in another language can be useful for details such as processing simple e-mail requests, it is always important to use services of a professional translation company for formal business communications. Not only will the translation company certify their work, but they will truly understand the customs and business etiquette of the culture with which you are making contact.
After completing your review of your current international communications experience, the next step is to create an International Communications Plan. In this plan, first identify skill gaps within your organization and pinpoint areas in which you need assistance or improvement. You will often find that you have untapped resources, or at least resources that can be repurposed toward international communication. This is also when you should identify what types of services, such as translation and interpretation, you will need to adapt to the culture with which you plan to work.
Finally, you must decide on your course of action. While international business is often very lucrative, it is sometimes easy to forget the extensive preparation that must go into making contact. For example, you will need a translator who truly understands the culture you are working with to prepare your business communications and also interpret returning communications from your new international partner or customer. The biggest benefit of teaming up with a professional translator is that you will have access to their experience and business savvy. For example, if you are in manufacturing, you will want someone who is knowledgeable about the terms, trends, and nuances of manufacturing in both languages and cultures.
Translation companies like TTC Language Services Limited provide professionals who can guide you through the vagaries and nuances of international communications. We have all seen ludicrous examples of overly literal or poorly thought out translations. But did you consider that even some images could create a nonsensical or even offensive view of your company to people from other cultures? Not only will investing in a professional translation company ensure that you do not make any serious gaffes that could undermine your credibility, but it will also enhance your business communications resulting in a more professional image for your business, and smoother streamlining of your business processes.
When choosing a translation company, also be aware of when and how you will utilise their services. Perhaps you will only need them once in awhile, to interpret letters or emails. On the other hand, you may need them with you to translate conference calls or even to travel with you to meetings. Further, you will likely need to employ a translation service like TTC to assist with adapting your current business model, marketing materials, best practices and corporate culture to connect with that of your new business partners or customers. You would not go into an important meeting without preparation, and neither should you go into business with international partners without a professional translation company.
Conducting business internationally could very well be the jumpstart your organization needs to stay ahead of the competition, get out of a rut, or simply beat the current economic downturn. Do not let fear of the unknown hold you back from what could be a lucrative opportunity. Strategic partners such as TTC are always ready and available to ease your transition by handling all of your international business communications needs.
TTC is a member of Essex Chambers of Commerce and can be contacted at 01245 216930 or by e-mail info@ttcltd.com
Chances are that your business is examining every aspect of its operations in order to cut costs or discover new sources of income. What you might not have considered is that an overseas supplier may be able to replace one component in your supply chain at a much lower cost, or that customers in another part of the world might pay a premium for your products or services. Perhaps you already work in a multicultural, multilingual organization, or wish to open a base of operations in another country. It is often said that, with the advent of technology, the world is much smaller now than ever before. That is true, but no matter how small the world may seem, it can still be very daunting to reach across borders, cultures, and language barriers to find the absolute best solution for your business needs. But say you have identified an opportunity, or a part of your business that you think could benefit from a change. So how do you start?
First, a review of your current international communications strengths is in order. You will likely find that many of your staff and business contacts have some international experience. They may know a foreign language, or have spent significant time in a different culture. You may even already be an international business with staff members stationed in countries around the world. It is important to note that, while having a staff member who is conversant in another language can be useful for details such as processing simple e-mail requests, it is always important to use services of a professional translation company for formal business communications. Not only will the translation company certify their work, but they will truly understand the customs and business etiquette of the culture with which you are making contact.
After completing your review of your current international communications experience, the next step is to create an International Communications Plan. In this plan, first identify skill gaps within your organization and pinpoint areas in which you need assistance or improvement. You will often find that you have untapped resources, or at least resources that can be repurposed toward international communication. This is also when you should identify what types of services, such as translation and interpretation, you will need to adapt to the culture with which you plan to work.
Finally, you must decide on your course of action. While international business is often very lucrative, it is sometimes easy to forget the extensive preparation that must go into making contact. For example, you will need a translator who truly understands the culture you are working with to prepare your business communications and also interpret returning communications from your new international partner or customer. The biggest benefit of teaming up with a professional translator is that you will have access to their experience and business savvy. For example, if you are in manufacturing, you will want someone who is knowledgeable about the terms, trends, and nuances of manufacturing in both languages and cultures.
Translation companies like TTC Language Services Limited provide professionals who can guide you through the vagaries and nuances of international communications. We have all seen ludicrous examples of overly literal or poorly thought out translations. But did you consider that even some images could create a nonsensical or even offensive view of your company to people from other cultures? Not only will investing in a professional translation company ensure that you do not make any serious gaffes that could undermine your credibility, but it will also enhance your business communications resulting in a more professional image for your business, and smoother streamlining of your business processes.
When choosing a translation company, also be aware of when and how you will utilise their services. Perhaps you will only need them once in awhile, to interpret letters or emails. On the other hand, you may need them with you to translate conference calls or even to travel with you to meetings. Further, you will likely need to employ a translation service like TTC to assist with adapting your current business model, marketing materials, best practices and corporate culture to connect with that of your new business partners or customers. You would not go into an important meeting without preparation, and neither should you go into business with international partners without a professional translation company.
Conducting business internationally could very well be the jumpstart your organization needs to stay ahead of the competition, get out of a rut, or simply beat the current economic downturn. Do not let fear of the unknown hold you back from what could be a lucrative opportunity. Strategic partners such as TTC are always ready and available to ease your transition by handling all of your international business communications needs.
TTC is a member of Essex Chambers of Commerce and can be contacted at 01245 216930 or by e-mail info@ttcltd.com
Wednesday, 4 July 2007
Translation Open day in Chelmsford-Essex
On the 18th of July 2007 between 3:00 to 6:30 pm at TTC House, 86 Broomfield Road, Chelmsford, Essex CM1 1SS.
§ There will be light refreshments.
§ Visit our office and discuss any questions you may have about translation.
§ A workshop where you can interact with TTC team and other guests about language solutions for your international business needs.
§ There will also be a brief presentation sessions on how to make your website multilingual.
Please let us know whether or not you would be attending our Translation Open Day by replying to levent@ttc-online.co.uk
§ There will be light refreshments.
§ Visit our office and discuss any questions you may have about translation.
§ A workshop where you can interact with TTC team and other guests about language solutions for your international business needs.
§ There will also be a brief presentation sessions on how to make your website multilingual.
Please let us know whether or not you would be attending our Translation Open Day by replying to levent@ttc-online.co.uk
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