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Writer's pictureAna Catarina Lopes

Why your translator's CPD matters to your business

Updated: Oct 2

When hiring a translator for your business needs, you should know that their commitment to Continuous Professional Development (CPD) is vital for ensuring that you receive translations of the highest quality. In this article, I’ll explain why a translator’s dedication to CPD should be a key consideration in your hiring decision, and how you can assess whether they have the right approach to CPD.


Why your translator's CPD matters to your business

Why does it matter?


By investing in Continuous Professional Development (CPD), translators ensure that they stay up-to-date with the latest language trends, industry-specific terminology, and technological advancements. This means that when you hire a translator who values CPD, you can expect translations that are accurate, precise, and reflective of current linguistic standards.


The learning these professionals take away from their CPD endeavors not only make them better at their jobs, but also ensure you hire someone that can add value to your projects.

Industries vary widely, and each may require specialized knowledge and terminology. Translators who actively engage in CPD are better equipped to handle complex subject matters with proficiency and accuracy.


Whether it's legal documents, medical reports, or technical manuals, a translator's commitment to CPD ensures that your content is translated by someone with specialized expertise who understands the nuances of your industry.


CPD often involves learning about new tools and techniques that streamline the translation process. Translators who invest in CPD are more likely to leverage these tools effectively, resulting in faster turnaround times without compromising on quality. This means that you can expect your translations to be delivered promptly, meeting your deadlines and improving project timelines and efficiency.


Translators who prioritize CPD demonstrate a commitment to excellence and professionalism. They understand the importance of meeting client expectations and strive to deliver translations that not only meet but exceed your requirements. With this client-centric approach, you can rest assured that your project will be handled with care and attention to detail.


Building a long-term relationship with a translator who invests in CPD can benefit your business in the long run. As your needs evolve and expand, you can rely on a translator who continuously improves their skills and stays abreast of industry developments to meet your changing requirements effectively.


In essence, valuing a translator's investment in CPD ensures that you receive translations that perfectly meet your specific needs and expectations. By choosing a translator who invests in continuous learning and improvement, you can trust that your content will be translated with precision, expertise, and professionalism.


How can you check their approach to CPD?


Ask about their CPD activities

During the hiring process, inquire about the translator's recent CPD activities. Ask them about workshops, courses, conferences, or certifications they have participated in to enhance their skills and knowledge. A dedicated translator will be transparent about their ongoing professional development efforts.


Review their credentials

Look for translators who hold relevant certifications or memberships in professional translation associations. These credentials often require the completion of CPD activities to maintain certification or membership status. Translators who actively pursue these qualifications demonstrate a commitment to their professional growth.


Request references or testimonials

Reach out to previous clients or colleagues for references or testimonials about the translator's work. Ask specifically about their professionalism, expertise, and commitment to staying updated with industry standards and trends. Positive feedback regarding their dedication to CPD is a good indicator of their reliability and proficiency.


Evaluate their portfolio

Review the translator’s case studies or samples to assess the quality and accuracy of their work. Look for evidence of specialized knowledge in specific subject areas and attention to detail. Translators who invest in CPD are likely to produce translations that reflect their ongoing learning and improvement.


Discuss their approach to CPD

Engage in a conversation with the translator about their approach to CPD and how they integrate learning into their professional practice. Inquire about their preferred resources, learning goals, and strategies for staying updated with industry advancements.

 

By taking these steps, you can be confident that you’re hiring a professional who prioritizes continuous learning and improvement, ultimately leading to better outcomes for your translation projects.



 

About the author:

Ana Catarina is an English to Portuguese translator specialized in Healthcare and Marketing. She helps foreign companies to launch their brand and products in the Portuguese market by translating, localizing and transcreating their client-targeted contents to make them appealing to the Portuguese public.

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