Sometimes, the languages that are in great demand for translators are very different than those for interpreters. However, in the United States, the top-paid languages for both professions are Asian and Middle Eastern languages. The primary difference between language combinations for interpreters and translators comes down to specialization. Professional translators would find it lucrative to specialize in Japanese, Chinese or Arabic in addition to your business translator certification. On the other hand, there is an increasing demand presently for medical and legal interpreter training in Arabic, Chinese, Portuguese and Spanish.
Currently, having experience in business translator training is equally as important as language combinations. This is because the highest paid languages are related to international business. The following languages are ranked as the highest paid:
- Mandarin is a power-house as far as trade is concerned. This accounts for the pay rate Chinese translators receive. It holds the greatest importance with regards to China’s market expansion and the immigrant population.
- Arabic has one of the top pay-rates because it’s the language of one of the biggest oil-rich countries. Additionally, it is not a language that is commonly learned in the US. This makes it a useful and unique skill when coupled with a business translator certification. You will be able to target companies that are expanding from, or based in, the Middle East.
- Japanese translators are in demand and low in supply. Japan represents a significant contributor in other nations’ prosperity as they represent both an export market and fundamental investors. Currently, Japan is responsible for many manufacturing and technological development. Additionally, there are few English speakers that know Japanese at the level required to interpret.
- Dutch has been gaining increased popularity because of its increased presence in commerce and business. It has slowly, but steadily, been driving it up the ranks.
Overall a business translator certification can benefit language professionals of all kinds. However, many common languages, such as Spanish, Portuguese and French can bring greater financial prospects with a federal court interpreter certification or a medical interpreter certificate. These language groups are a majority in these sectors. Yet, German and French are in some demand because, although there’s a wider pool of available interpreters for these languages, both countries are amongst Britain’s top trading partners. Knowing French or German and having a background in the business and finance sectors would certainly strengthen opportunities for language professionals with a business translator certification. Nevertheless, these languages also face high competition since they are popular combinations. Practically, this means it’s easy to find work, but the fee will likely remain between a pretty average to low amount, depending on the professionals’ formation and credentials. Accordingly, it’s best to become an interpreter for the highest-paid Middle Eastern and Asian languages if you can!
About Language Connections:
Language Connections is one of the top language service companies in the US. Over the last 30 years, we’ve focused on providing the best business translation services, interpreting services, as well as interpreter training and customized language training programs. In addition to top-tier corporate language training, we offer certified corporate interpreters and professional business translation services in 200+ languages. Our network includes linguists with backgrounds in all major industries. They’re ready to meet your needs, whether they’re for technical translation services, legal translation, government translation services, international development translation services, education translation services, life sciences translation, or something else. Reach out to us today for a free quote on our cost-efficient and timely translation services, interpreters, or other linguistic services.
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