Last week, we introduced a practical translation solution: launching a small team for your nonprofit. With you as team coordinator, two translators, one bilingual reviser, and one formatter/proofreader, you can get started right away with translating your written materials.
But how do you choose the right people for your team? There are a few basic criteria that are important for everyone on your team, regardless of their role.
First of all, I recommend that you choose people who are aged 18 or older. This will ensure their language and other skills are fully developed.
Secondly, they need access to a computer and internet, even if this means borrowing someone else’s or going to a library. Along with that, they need to have good typing and memory skills. Documents will need to be prepared on a computer and exchanged by email.
Thirdly, and perhaps most important, your team members need to have a thorough knowledge of your organization’s values and terminology. This will enable them to accurately represent your organization in the documents they prepare.
Fourthly, “The 3-Hour Translation Team” is based on the concept of each team member dedicating three hours of fully focused time per week. In order to accomplish this, they must be self-motivated and conscientious. Your team should be able to prepare about 150 pages of translated documents within a few months at this pace.
Finally, your team members need to be communicative and trustworthy, so that the team can operate smoothly. And they should be passionate about helping you provide translated materials. This will keep them around for a long time!
In the next three weeks, we will explore the criteria for your translators, bilingual reviser, and formatter/proofreader. Stay tuned!
In the meantime, download your “Translation Team Finder”, a free fillable PDF to help you identify potential members for your nonprofit translation team. https://www.lianergrant.com/finder/
Have a great day!
Liane 🙂