A certified translation service is essential to give your translated content authority and make it legally valid, however sometimes you need more than just the basics.
If you’re translating a medical, legal, or technical document, it’s imperative that your translator understands complex terms and can translate them accurately. The text should also flow and be easy to follow. For this reason, Capital Linguists work exclusively with the highest-quality translators, offering certified translations in over 100 languages.
Dr. Ziyun Xu has been a professional translator since 2007, beginning his career while pursuing his studies at the prestigious Middlebury Institute of International Studies. In 2015, he joined Capital Linguists, where he has since become one of the company’s most senior and trusted translators. Over the years, Dr. Xu has taken pride in contributing to Capital Linguists’ remarkable growth and diversification, witnessing firsthand the expansion of its work portfolio and global impact.
Did you study to become a translator?
Yes, I did study to become a translator because proficiency in multiple languages alone does not equate to being a skilled or competent translator. I hold not only a master’s degree but also dedicated nearly six years to earning a PhD in this specialized field. With decades of experience in both academia and the practical application of translation, I firmly believe that formal education and training are essential to mastering the nuances and techniques required to become a top-flight certified translator.
How do you ensure the quality of your translation?
To ensure the quality of my translations, I adhere to a meticulous and systematic process. First, I conduct thorough research to understand the subject matter, context, and cultural nuances of the source text. This ensures that I capture not only the meaning but also the tone, intent, and style of the original content.
I then draft the translation with precision, prioritizing accuracy and clarity. Afterward, I rigorously review and revise the text, cross-referencing key terms and phrases to maintain consistency and fidelity to the original. Depending on the nature of the project, I may consult with subject matter experts or utilize specialized resources to guarantee the highest level of accuracy.
Finally, I approach every project with the mindset of continuous improvement. I actively seek feedback from clients and colleagues and stay updated on industry best practices and linguistic trends. This commitment to excellence enables me to deliver certified translations that are not only accurate but also resonate with the target audience.
What languages do you translate between?
I spent over a decade in Shenzhen, deeply immersed in a Cantonese-speaking environment, which honed my expertise in translations between Simplified and Traditional Chinese. While my time studying and living in Europe allowed me to also pick up Spanish and Portuguese, my professional focus remains on translations involving Simplified/Traditional Chinese and English. My extensive linguistic experience and cultural immersion make me a reliable and skilled translator in my field.
What are one or two large projects you particularly enjoyed?
One of the most memorable projects I worked on through Capital Linguists involved translating a significant volume of election-related materials for the United States. These documents outlined comprehensive protocols regarding voter eligibility, how to vote, and the circumstances under which certain votes may be deemed invalid. Given the heightened political climate in the U.S., the importance of this task could not be overstated.
The project demanded exceptional attention to detail and precision to ensure the information was both accurate and accessible to the intended audience. It was particularly rewarding to contribute to such a crucial aspect of civic engagement. Through the translation and meticulous proofreading process, I gained a deep understanding of the intricate voting system in the U.S., which was both professionally enriching and personally enlightening.
This entire project was seamlessly coordinated online, showcasing how remote collaboration can effectively facilitate high-stakes work. It was an honor to play a role in a project of such national importance, where the integrity of my work had a direct impact on the clarity and accessibility of critical electoral information.
What do you most enjoy about being a translator?
What I most enjoy about being a translator is the unparalleled freedom to work from anywhere on the planet, at any time that suits my schedule. While the COVID-19 pandemic temporarily introduced many professionals to the benefits of remote work, translation is a discipline that has long embraced—and continues to thrive in—the realm of remote work. Unlike many other professions where employees are now being called back to the office, translators enjoy the privilege of maintaining a flexible and location-independent lifestyle.
This freedom allows me to immerse myself in the world’s most inspiring settings, whether it’s the romantic charm of Italy, the serene beauty of idyllic Norway, or the timeless allure of England. Beyond the convenience, this flexibility enriches my perspective, fuels my creativity, and enables me to integrate cultural immersion into my work, enhancing the quality and authenticity of my translations. It is this unique blend of professional independence and cultural exploration that makes being a translator truly rewarding.
How do you retain your focus when translating large documents?
To maintain focus when translating large documents, I rely on a structured approach and disciplined work habits. First, I break the document into manageable sections and set realistic goals for completing each portion. This allows me to stay organized and prevents feelings of being overwhelmed by the sheer volume of the work.
I also ensure that I take regular breaks to recharge my mental energy. Short breaks help me maintain clarity and avoid fatigue, enabling me to approach the text with fresh eyes and sustained concentration.
In addition, I create an environment conducive to focus, free from distractions, and equipped with all the resources I need. For particularly demanding projects, I employ tools like glossaries, term bases, and CAT (Computer-Assisted Translation) tools to ensure consistency and streamline the process.
Lastly, I remind myself of the purpose and impact of the project. Keeping the end goal in mind motivates me to stay engaged and deliver high-quality work, no matter the size of the document. This combination of organization, self-discipline, and purposeful work helps me stay focused and efficient.
What are the advantages of working with a translation agency?
Working with a reputable translation agency, such as Capital Linguists, offers several key advantages. One of the most significant benefits is the assurance of timely and full payment. Unfortunately, there are instances where independent translators encounter clients who exploit their hard work, using excuses like dissatisfaction with the quality of the translation to withhold payment. A professional agency acts as a safeguard, ensuring that translators are protected from such unscrupulous practices and that their efforts are fairly compensated.
Additionally, translation agencies open doors to opportunities that may not be available to individual freelancers. For instance, large corporations often require multi-lingual translation projects that demand coordination across multiple languages and professionals. Agencies have the infrastructure, resources, and network to manage these complex projects, granting translators access to exciting, high-profile assignments they might not otherwise secure on their own.
Finally, agencies often handle administrative tasks like client communication, project management, and quality assurance, allowing translators to focus entirely on their craft. This support system not only streamlines the workflow but also provides a sense of stability and professionalism, making collaboration with an agency a highly rewarding experience.
Any insights for other translators?
One of the most important insights I’ve gained as a translator is the value of continuous learning. Languages and cultures evolve constantly, and staying updated with linguistic trends, idiomatic expressions, and cultural nuances is essential for producing accurate and relevant translations.
Another key piece of advice is to specialize. While it’s beneficial to be versatile, developing expertise in a specific field—whether it’s legal, medical, technical, or literary translation—can set you apart and open doors to more rewarding opportunities.
Time management and organization are also critical, especially when working on large projects or juggling multiple assignments. Breaking down tasks into manageable parts and setting clear milestones can help prevent burnout and ensure consistent quality.
Finally, never underestimate the power of networking. Build strong relationships with colleagues, agencies, and clients. A good reputation and reliable connections can lead to long-term partnerships and steady work.
Above all, remember that translation is not just about converting words from one language to another—it’s about bridging cultures and creating understanding. Take pride in the craft and the important role you play in global communication.
A certified translation service you can count on
If you’re looking for a top-rated certified translation, Capital Linguists can help. We have a team of professional translators, available throughout the United States and internationally, available to deliver certified document translations at short notice.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch.
