How much money do you make from text translations?

Knowledge of a foreign language can be monetized. There are many online platforms that allow you to translate texts and earn a good income. Customers are companies, web resources and individuals. The earning segment does not require a diploma, but the level of knowledge and skills must be high. An advantage will be the possession of a profile translation (construction, medicine, management, etc.).

The cost of the service

Unlike copywriting and SEO, the price list for the activity in question is higher. The cost of interpreting text from one language into another starts from €13-20 per 100 words. The average rate is €17-25. Specialists with a narrow focus (rare languages, specific subjects) receive up to €100 per page in standard script. To increase your earnings, follow these rules:

1. designate a specialisation;
2. register on foreign content exchanges;
3. take orders from overseas, which pay more;
4. learn the functionality of CAT Tools (automated translation tool).

Numerous languages are used for interpretation. English, German, Chinese and Turkish are considered to be the most in-demand languages. There will be definite advantages if you are proficient in a rare language. The only disadvantage is that orders are rarely created for them. The palm in this segment is occupied by English as an international means of communication. Fluency in this language will not leave the translator out of work.

Working from home

Language skills provide many opportunities, from travelling and communicating with foreigners to working on a PC. Experienced translators do not go to the office for a long time, and look for orders over the Internet. Consider the current options for earning money:

• cooperation with specialized companies;
• communities and forums;
• content exchanges;
• publishing houses.

Contacting a translation company will allow you to receive orders by email. Freelance workers are paid less, so it is beneficial to both the company and the translator. Jobs for translation (interpretation, writing, audio, etc.) often appear on specialised freelance platforms. You can create a profile and offer your services to potential customers in forums or communities. A well done job will bring in additional income, high ratings, and new clients. Sometimes publishers hire remote workers. But be careful not to fall for the bait of scammers, work only on a prepaid basis and do not pay money for forwarding tasks.

Useful Tips

Translation is a very specific kind of business that only a limited number of companies and individuals need to do. It is a stable livelihood, but the amount depends on how generous the client is. In the long term you need to find regular customers who are happy with their terms and conditions. One-off jobs are a great start for beginners, but you must gradually move away from them.

When mastering the specifics of the profession, do not chase short-term earnings. Soberly assess the opportunities and pay for them. It is better to take 1-2 test orders that will allow the client to assess the qualifications of the performer. A large volume of work is worth taking when there is a firm belief in a positive outcome. Be sure to estimate the deadline as late submission will damage the relationship with your client. 

Translation is a good way to make money online. The level of income depends on a variety of factors: volume, customer generosity, complexity of the assignment, and the translator’s area of expertise. Experienced translators can easily earn several thousand euros a month from the comfort of their own home.