I once met a very interesting person…she knew six foreign languages and was working for a foreign embassy. Her flair for language intrigued me. She spoke English and the local language as fluently as she could the other languages and her demeanor surprised me. She was working as an online translator helping several companies translate their material to other languages and believe me she earned substantially as the demand for such people is very high. It may not be necessary that you know six or seven languages but even one extra language can help you become a translator.

You just need to search online for translation jobs as this is an excellent work from home opportunity. With globalization in place and our world becoming really small, companies want to break language and cultural barriers and market their products abroad also. In America you would find that companies require translation to Spanish, in Canada they would require French/English translation and so on. There are several European businesses that may want their products marketed in the US or Canada so if you can translate from their language to perfect English you have a great job in place.

As a freelance translator your language skills need to be flawless. Sometimes you may know Spanish or French but you may be more comfortable reading than writing so try to stick to translating from the foreign language to English rather than the other way round. Most freelance websites will help you find good translation jobs. You need to price yourself and bid accordingly. Most common languages needing translation work are French, Spanish, German and many Asian languages. In case you know a not so common language don’t worry you may get work so keep looking out for projects.

Remember freelance translation is a very special skill, so do not go for very low rates. You can comfortably charge up to $35 per hour so do not end up charging very less as clients may begin feeling that your work may not be good enough. Always learn to reply to an ad in a professional manner. First let them know that your work will be of excellent quality. Emphasize your skills as a translator and that you will be able to complete the work within the stipulated time. Clearly estimate your price and put it realistically. Freelance translation is a budding field, a great online business opportunity and you will be a rare commodity if you excel in the same. Clients are always on the lookout for good translators.