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Editor's Notes
As translators, I believe that we can learn from other language professionals regardless of the language combination(s); after all,we all struggle with glossaries, grammar, "GG-type" glosses in other languages, and the like. Although we have differences in language, we face the same day-to-day situations in terms of deadlines, meeting clients' expectations, and searching for that perfect word or phrase.
While I was in Australia from 1995 to 1998, I often met with David Connor, this month's "Translator on the Spot" interview. David translates French, German, Dutch, English (and four more Indo-European languages) and lives in Melbourne, Australia. He is the treasurer for the Victorian branch of the Australian Institute of Interpreters and Translators (AUSIT). David worked at Telstra, an Australian telecommunications company for a number of years before "taking the plunge" into self-employment in late 1996.
What is your education and experience background? How did it lead to translating?
B.A. in languages. It didn't immediately lead to translating, rather it was done in order to get into teaching. I didn't like teaching so I went into the public service where I saw a translator's job advertised.
How long have you been a translator?
Since 1971.
What was your first translation job?
Technical translation with the Postmaster General's Department in Melbourne in 1971.
How many languages are you familiar with? Do you translate into or from those languages?
I'm familiar enough with 8 languages to be able to translate from them into English only. I know some others to a lesser degree, but it would be hardwork translating from them.
How did you learn the languages that you translate into or from?
Four of them I studied at University, the rest were self taught.
How do you get your clients?
By word of mouth, through the Yellow Pages, through my professional association, by agencies knowing me by reputation.
What are your fields of specialization? Why? How do you keep up with new developments?
Telecommunications, electronics, bio-medical etc. Just by reading in these fields.
Is your translation style "loose" or "literal"?
Fairly loose.
Do you read other books or magazines written in the source language in your spare time?
What spare time?? Theoretically, I'd like to and do sometimes.
What are some of your favourite reference materials? What's on your bookshelf within easy reach right now?
Heaps of technical dictionaries and encyclopaedic works etc.
What is the singular (or more if you can think of any!) most important piece of advice you can give to people just starting out in translation?
Don't give up - you need a lifetime of persistence if you're to survive.
What do you think are the most important elements or skills necessary in translation? Will these change in 5 or 10 years?
Adapatability to change - in the next 5 to 10 the need for such adaptability will just increase.
Are you still going to be translating 5 or 10 years from now? Do you think the profession will change and how?
I imagine I will be! You will just have to have more peripheral skills to offer the customer or be passed over.
How much time per day do you spend translating (and editing and related activities) versus doing administrative work, clients relations, and other "running-the-business" type of activities?
Probably about 70% translation.
Please describe your work area.
A little office with bookcases at the back of the house.
What do you like about translating?
You never know what interesting aspect of human experience is going to Come up next.
What do you dislike about translating?
You never know what boring aspect of human experience is going to come up next.
What was your most interesting or unique translation job?
I'm sorry, nothing in particular sticks in my mind. There have been so many interesting ones.