Finding and hiring the right language translation services agency should take out some of your time. It is necessary to do due diligence and delegate your important projects to the best-suited translation company.
Usually, it all boils down to price, languages offered, and specialisation. You’d probably already know that. The thing that you’re most probably concerned with is whether an agency is really necessary for your project or would a freelancer translator be enough.
Read this article on the Importance of Getting The Right Translation Service.
In this article, we will discuss the pros and cons of hiring a freelance translator and a language translation agency.
Should I Choose Freelancers or Language Translation Agency?
This would be one of the first questions you’ll have when making a decision. Below, we state the main differences and the pros and cons of each of them.
Pros and Cons of Hiring a Freelance Translator
Image of Freelance Language Translator working from home
The Pros
It can be cheaper
Freelancers will often charge lesser than agencies for translation services which makes it suitable for companies whose focus is primarily on budget.
You’re able to work directly with the translator
You’ll know who is translating your document and be able to contact them directly. It can reduce communication time and help the client and freelancer build a working relationship.
Onboarding process could be faster
An agency might take a little longer than a freelancer when it comes to onboarding and getting you set up.
The Cons
Freelancer’s availability can be inconsistent
Freelancers usually have other clients that they are working for besides you. Thus, response and turnover time can be longer than an agency. Also, they work on their own time and do not have fixed hours. So, your project can be delayed if they were to come across an emergency.
Freelancers rarely accept multilingual projects
While many freelancers have multiple source languages (e.g. they translate from French and German into English), it’s rare to find a freelancer who will translate into multiple target languages. Translators should only work into their native language, so beware of anyone claiming to do otherwise. Unless they’re truly bilingual, they might be subcontracting.
You’ll only get the basic work done; nothing more, nothing less
While freelance translators are experts in translation, they probably won’t offer the extra services an agency can provide such as complex DTP and extra reviews.
Pros and Cons of Hiring a Language Translation Agency
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The Pros
Agencies have stringent interviewing process
We have a large pool of linguists with different language combinations and fields of expertise, all of whom have translation qualifications and/or several years of professional experience. Basically, you get the best of the best.
Able to work with tight deadlines
With lots of translators, agencies have more resources than freelancers and can complete translations quickly and accurately.
Your communication style and branding stays consistent
A translation agency will make sure that your message is conveyed in a consistent and cohesive manner across all languages and audiences. And do so with your desired brand tone and style.
Multiple checks done by several eyes
With many professional translators in an agency, we are able to double and triple-check the work before handing it off. This promises clients only top-grade work.
Professionals with other skills to format your content so that it’s ready to publish
We have creative teams who can help with things like InDesign, audio, transcription, voiceovers, and formatting. Not all freelancers are able to offer a suite of services and skills to produce things ready for marketing.
The Cons
It’s more expensive
Translation agencies often have higher rates than working with freelancers directly. But what you’ll get for your money is a translation managed from start to finish and other extra services as well.
Cannot speak to the translators
You won’t be able to speak directly to the translator ad most likely communications will be handled by a representative of the agency.
Conclusion on Language Translation Services
The right language translation services company for every person and project is different. After reading this article, you are now more equipped to make a more informed decision.
Browse our blog to learn more about translation services and how to find the right one for yourself.
Feel free to contact us today for any business inquiries and find out how we can help you with your translation needs.
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