I have wanted to have my own linguist services business for a very long time. The problem is that I am afraid. Too many “what if something goes wrong”. My office job is flexible so I got plenty of time. I start planning but I do not follow through. Fear stops me in my tracks. I studied computers a century ago and there are so many programs now up there that I am not familiar with. I worry about looking like a fool. I will write several tasks that I have to accomplish and then organize them in chronological order to see what has to be done first. Perhaps I should keep a diary and hold myself accountable. I know I am very talented for the kind of business I want to do but I will need additional training. Again, “little but consistent” will be my mantra.
01/16/08 I have a colleague that showed me a text she got translated by a non-linguist. We reviewed it and she ended up paying me to correct it. She has been sending me several linguistic projects and referring colleagues to me. I just completed a small project for a client she referred to me. I am quite happy. This morning I met with a colleague who wanted me to translate a contract. He paid me in advance. I will have it ready next week. I was also contacted by the first colleague after I did a speech for a meeting. She said everyone loved it and she would like for me to do public speaking at some schools. I love public speaking and linguistic projects. I feel so happy right now with this litte step forward. I will make a list of potential clients and will approach them. I feel great! :)
01/22/09 I am going to do a speech for a hospital next week. A colleage of mine who is very supportive was asking the CEO of the hospital and a medical director about having some marketing documents translated. I spoke with the medical director and he wants to meet with me to discuss the issue. A lawyer that I have referred some clients to sent me a client of his to write her story for her case. It was quite a long process, this lady had a very long story and I really loved writing it. Last week, a colleague also gave me a project that consisted in translating a contract. It has been little projects, but close enough to give me some cash.
I hope to get bigger projects. I am excited about my presentation next week. I love public speaking!
02/21/09
I have failed to follow some client leads. I will do this coming week. I also will check on all the clients to make sure everything is ok and they are happy with my work so far.
I have to start planning and putting things in a calendar on what steps I am taking to develop my business.
Because credibitlity is so important in this business I renewed my professional membership with the ATA but I have to start working towards my certification.
I will keep this log during the week to track my progress.
03/03/09 I got a project last week from an attorney. I learned about how to get transcripts for professionals moving to the U.S. This is useful. I will work trying to get the transcript company to use my services too. I am pursuing a new client a colleague referred me to. I sent him an e-mail last week. I will give him a call.
