Many individuals and companies who are not used to working with freelance translators are confused when it comes to choosing the right freelance translator. In most countries, translation is not a regulated profession. Anybody who speaks two languages, or thinks he speaks two languages, can offer his services as a freelance translator. It is therefore all the more important to choose somebody who is truly qualified.
Here are some guidelines to help you pick the best freelance translator for your project:

- Is the target language (the language the text will be translated into) the translator’s native language? It is generally believed that translators produce better quality when translating into their mother tongue. One usually has broader vocabulary and better writing skills in one’s native language than in a second language. A translation done by a non-native of the target language is likely to sound less natural or even awkward. If it is not possible to find a translator whose native language matches the target language (for very rare language combinations for example), make sure that the translation will be proofread and edited by a native of the target language. This criterion is especially important for literary or marketing texts where style and nuances are very important. Keep also in mind that for some languages spoken in various countries, there are considerable regional differences. Brazilian Portuguese is different from European Portuguese, Canadian French from European French, Mexican Spanish from Argentine Spanish, UK English from American English, etc. If your Spanish translation will be used in Chile for example, it will be much better adapted to the local market in Chile when translated by a Chilean translator rather than by a translator from Spain.

- How well does the translator know the source language (the original language of the text to be translated)? In order to produce a good translation, the translator must understand all the nuances, implied meanings, word plays, various registers such as slang and administrative or legal jargon, depending on the text, cultural references in the source text. Ideally, the translator should have been immersed in the language and the culture by living for an extended period of time in a country where the source language is spoken.

- How familiar is the translator with the subject field? Most professional translators specialize in a few areas and will refuse texts that are outside of their fields of specialization. If you need to have a legal document translated, choose a translator who has substantial experience in legal translation and is familiar with the legal systems involved, ideally a translator who has also studied law or was trained in legal translation.

- Does the translator hold any official certification or credential? Some translator associations such as the ATA in the US or NAATI in Australia offer certification or accreditation exams for translators. In some countries (France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Brazil, Mexico, Luxembourg, Belgium, the Netherlands, Switzerland and others), legal translators can become sworn translators before a court. They are thus authorized to translate official documents and certify their translations. Therefore, if you need an official (certified or sworn) translation, make sure that the translator is duly accredited and inquire about the procedure in the country where the translation will be used, as each country has its own system and requirements.

- Does the translator have a degree or a certificate in translation? Many people believe that knowing two languages is enough to be a translator. It is not. Translation is a skill (some say that it is an art) that has to be learned, either through courses or practical on-the-job training. Therefore, make sure to choose a translator who has studied translation or acquired his or her translation skills through extensive practical experience, ideally a combination of both.

- Is the translator experienced? Does he or she have a solid track-record, satisfied customers, good references? Many translators prefer not to disclose the names of their clients because of confidentiality issues. Instead of asking for names of clients, rather ask if the translator has worked on similar projects before and if he or she has experience in translating the type of document you need. Many translators are also willing to show you sample translations they have done before and some accept to do small test translations.

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