Skills a Translator MUST have

Being a translator might not be as easy as you think. A knowledge of more than 2 languages might not be just enough. There are particular skills that a translator should have, therefore they can not only work well but can have a good translation outcome, do you have it? Let’s break down what skills translator must have before entering the industry!

1. Understanding of specific language
   A translator must comprehend the full meaning of the text, including all the subtle subtleties that are suggested in specific language(s). That level of understanding requires advanced, near native level, knowledge of your source language. It is not just being fluent in that specific language, verbal and non-verbally but also understanding its grammar, idioms, and slangs so your translation will be near perfect!

2. Cultural Knowledge
   A translator must have understanding of value systems and worldviews including culturally distinct elements like customs and trends. Being aware of the cultural distinctions between your source and target languages, it helps identify text that won't translate properly.

3. Management skills
   A translator must have good management skills in order to manage their time and projects well, since they will probably have tight deadlines and do many projects at the same time.

4. Research Skills Translators are constantly doing research on wording, meanings, vocabulary, jargon, and background information to have the most accurate translation. Other than sources on the internet they can research it from their peers!

5. Writing skills A translator must be an excellent writer in your target language and able to write creatively and have a way with words. Because translators might probably need to do writings in a variety of forms, such as technical, promotional and marketing, formal/legal, informal, etc.

6. Software skills
   Translators not only have to be proficient with specific languages but also have to be proficient with software skills such as desktop publishing, speech-to-text translation, quality assurance, and terminology management software to guarantee that the best translations are used for their projects.

Now you are one step closer in becoming a better translator! Do you have what it takes to be a good translator? If you do, Join us Digital Trans Asia Translator Team (freelance position available)! Digital Trans Asia is hiring freelance translators and we want you to be a part of us! More information on our Instagram account @digitaltransasia https://www.instagram.com/digitaltransasia/ or visit our career site at For further business inquiries contact us at [email protected]