Working as a freelance translator and content editor means I’ve had the chance to collaborate with all kinds of clients—from big international agencies to small businesses and passionate individuals chasing their dreams. Over the years, I’ve picked up a few lessons from these interactions, some heartwarming, some hilarious, and others just plain unexpected. Here are a few of my favorites.
The Good:
Some clients are simply gems. They’re clear, respectful, and genuinely appreciate what we do. One client once sent me a thank-you email because I had “saved” them from printing thousands of brochures with a major typo. It reminded me that we don’t just translate—we protect brands and reputations. I’ve also learned that when communication flows and there’s mutual trust, the quality of work naturally improves. It’s a two-way street: when clients value you, you’re motivated to go the extra mile.
The Weird:
Then there are the odd requests that make you stop and laugh. Like the client who asked if I could “make the translation sound more Italian,” even though the target language was Spanish. Or the one who sent me screenshots of a blurry PDF and asked for a “quick translation” by the end of the day (of course). These moments have taught me the importance of setting boundaries kindly but firmly. Over time, I’ve gotten better at saying no without guilt—and that’s a big win in itself.
The Inspiring:
Some of my clients are true forces of nature. I’ve worked with NGOs translating stories of resilience from marginalized communities, and every word I type in those projects carries so much weight. I’ve seen entrepreneurs launch bilingual brands from scratch, determined to reach wider audiences. These clients inspire me to keep improving my craft, to keep showing up—even on the tough days—because what we do has impact beyond words on a screen.
At the end of the day, every client—good, weird, or inspiring—has taught me something. About language, about communication, about patience (lots of it!), and about the beauty of human connection across cultures. And even if the journey isn’t always smooth, it’s never boring—and for that, I’m grateful.
Thanks to Day Translations for sponsoring this post! Make sure to click the link to find out more about the services they offer.
Until next time, take care and stay safe!
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Translation Expert 