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All new translators on ProZ.com please check these rates!
The 'standard rates' we charge international agencies are quite different to local Thai agencies, yes.
But of course there is an expectation of quality that governs the price.
The current relevance:
After a recent recruitment drive of new translators with one agency I work for, new job requests are now all coming with a $0.05/word starting rate before negotiation. This means that one of the translato... See more
All new translators on ProZ.com please check these rates!
The 'standard rates' we charge international agencies are quite different to local Thai agencies, yes.
But of course there is an expectation of quality that governs the price.
The current relevance:
After a recent recruitment drive of new translators with one agency I work for, new job requests are now all coming with a $0.05/word starting rate before negotiation. This means that one of the translators who passed recruitment screening stated $0.05 as their minimum rate!! Unbelievable! This is after the agency has been sending work with $0.12/word as their starting rate for 4 years!!! Absolutely shameful.
In this situation it is only the agency that benefits with a wider profit margin. The end-client is still being charged the same amount. Other translators working for this agency are now all affected. ▲ Collapse
Soonthon LUPKITARO(Ph.D.)
Subject:
Comment:
The contents of this post will automatically be included in the ticket generated. Please add any additional comments or explanation (optional)
All new translators on ProZ.com please check these rates!
The 'standard rates' we charge international agencies are quite different to local Thai agencies, yes.
But of course there is an expectation of quality that governs the price.
The current relevance:
After a recent recruitment drive of new translators with one agency I work for, new job requests are now all coming with a $0.05/word starting rate before negotiation. This means that one of the translators who passed recruitment screening stated $0.05 as their minimum rate!! Unbelievable! This is after the agency has been sending work with $0.12/word as their starting rate for 4 years!!! Absolutely shameful.
In this situation it is only the agency that benefits with a wider profit margin. The end-client is still being charged the same amount. Other translators working for this agency are now all affected.
Comment on Current Translation Rates
Observations on Rate Discrepancies:
1. Rate Variations Between Agencies:
- There is a notable difference in rates charged to international agencies versus local Thai agencies. This is largely due to differing expectations of quality and market standards.
2. Recent Recruitment Drive Impact:
- The recruitment of new translators has led to job requests starting at $0.05/word. This is a significant drop from the previous $0.12/word rate that had been consistent for four years.
3. Consequences of Low Bidding:
- Agency Profit Margins: By accepting lower rates, the agency can increase its profit margin, as it continues to charge the end-client the same rate while paying translators less.
- Impact on Translator Community: Lower rates can drive down the standard pricing for all translators working with the agency, potentially leading to a decrease in overall income for many.
- Quality Expectations: Lower rates might imply lower quality expectations, but the agency might still demand high-quality work, which can be unfair to translators working for less compensation.
Recommendations for Translators:
1. Maintain Fair Rates:
- It is crucial to set and stick to fair rates that reflect the quality of your work. Undervaluing your services can have long-term negative effects on the industry standard and your earnings.
2. Industry Awareness:
- Stay informed about the standard rates within the industry to ensure you are competitively yet fairly pricing your services.
3. Negotiation Skills:
- Develop strong negotiation skills to advocate for fair compensation. Ensure you communicate the value of your expertise and the quality of your translations effectively.
4. Community Solidarity:
- Engage with fellow translators to create a unified front on maintaining fair pricing. A collective approach can help prevent rates from being driven down by individual low bids.
By upholding competitive yet fair rates, we can ensure the sustainability and integrity of the translation profession, providing fair compensation for quality work.
Subject:
Comment:
The contents of this post will automatically be included in the ticket generated. Please add any additional comments or explanation (optional)
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