Translation conferences 2017

2017 is now well underway, with the excesses of the holiday season (and most of our New Year’s Resolutions) just a distant memory. That means it’s time to look to the future and start making solid plans, from career progression to holidays. One of the best ways to tackle both at once is to attend a 2017 translation conference. Check out our extensive list of translation conferences in 2017 for details of what’s on and where this year! 

Translation conference benefits

Attending a translation conference can provide a real career boost for those working in professional translation. Conferences are designed to provide their attendees with unique perspectives and insights, and to present them with the very latest findings within the industry. This knowledge sharing can be invaluable to freelance translators looking to take their careers to the next level. 

Attending a translation conference in 2017 could also be a great way to give yourself a psychological boost. Translating can be a lonely business (as can many kinds of freelance work) and the enjoyment of spending a day or two with like-minded professionals can enhance job satisfaction no end. 

Networking at such events can also lead to new career opportunities. The State of Freelancing 2015 report showed a direct connection between income and marketing efforts. In essence, freelancers who consistently market themselves – which can of course include in person at events – earn more than those who don’t. 

Travelling to attend translation conferences in 2017

Of course, the benefits of attending a conference don’t just have to be professional. Why not combine attending a 2017 translation event with some time off to recharge your batteries? 

If you’re looking to see more of the world this year, and to enjoy the opportunity to hone your language skills overseas, then combining business with pleasure is a great idea. From Madrid to New York to Calcutta, there are plenty of translation conferences that would make the perfect basis for a holiday overseas. 

Preparing to attend a translation conference

Whether you’re making a break of it and jetting off into the sunset, or simply attending a one-day event in your hometown, it’s best to prepare thoroughly in order to make the most of your conference attendance. 

Start by familiarising yourself with all of the conference themes and looking into any that you’re unsure of. Understanding fully in advance what will be on offer means that you can attend the most relevant sessions for furthering your career. That might mean enjoying learning the latest information about your current area of expertise, or attending a workshop that could ignite a passion for a whole new area of translation. Either way, knowing in advance what you want to get out of the event will help ensure that you achieve maximum value from it. 

Reading up on the speakers and workshop presenters in advance is also essential. Connections made at translation conferences can have far-reaching benefits, and that’s not limited to connections you make with other delegates. Spending a few minutes making a positive impression on an influential figure in the translation industry, or the head of an organisation that relies heavily on professional translation services, can be an excellent investment of time and energy! 

Of course, remember to make a few practical preparations as well – take a notepad or tablet to take notes on, a couple of pens and a small stash of business cards in your own language and the language in which the event is being delivered. 

Final thoughts

Attending a 2017 translation conference could reap big rewards. Have you made plans to attend any yet? If so, which event would you particularly recommend? Let us know by leaving a comment below.