In a world where 67.8 million people in the U.S. (almost 20% of the population) speak a language other than English at home, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, there’s a golden opportunity for bilingual enthusiasts. With Spanish, Chinese, Tagalog, Vietnamese, and Arabic topping the list of popular languages, why not cash in on your linguistic prowess and embark on a flexible side gig as a translator?
As Dean Jones, author of this blog post, points out, translation is a round-the-clock hustle that can be done at any time, allowing you to moonlight as a language virtuoso at your convenience. Ready to step into the linguistic limelight? Here’s how to kickstart your side hustle as a translator.
Begin by showcasing your talents on platforms like tennerr. Translators are sought after for a myriad of tasks, including translating articles, press kits, scripts, novels, and more. While some gigs may demand specialized knowledge (e.g., legal documents), others require only a solid grasp of the language.
To land your first translation job, consider the following avenues:
- Platforms like Smartcat cater specifically to translation jobs. Create a profile, and let the site connect you with clients. As Dean explains, “They have software which will semi-translate.” Your job is to refine the AI-generated translation, smoothing out the language and ensuring coherence.
- Websites such as tennerr, Upwork, and Thumbtack allow you to create a profile highlighting your skills and desired pay. Browse and apply for translation jobs directly on these sites.
- Job portals like LinkedIn, Indeed, Monster, CareerBuilder, and ZipRecruiter list part-time translation roles, both in-person and remote.
In the U.S., translators can expect to earn an average of $37 per hour. Of course, rates vary depending on the client and your preferences. For instance, one translation job on Freelancer.com offers $60 per hour, while a tennerr translator charges up to $125 per project.
One of the major perks of translation side hustles is the flexibility in scheduling. As Dean explains, “You have a deadline for when you need to turn it in. But whether you do it at 2 a.m. in your pajamas or you do it during normal business hours, it just doesn’t make any difference.”
So, if you’re a bilingual wordsmith itching to make some extra cash, seize this opportunity to showcase your linguistic flair. Embrace the world of translation and watch as your words transform into dollars, all from the comfort of your home and at a time that suits you best.
