How to get started on your German – English translation or copywriting project.
Prepare your German source document
Decide upon the content you want to reproduce in English. For translation projects, ensure that the German content is correct and complete. (For copywriting projects, you may prefer to produce an outline).
Choose who to work with
Choose an expert in English to work with. Ideally you are looking for someone with expertise in your subject area and someone who you like. Preferably an English native speaker with translation/ copywriting experience. Choosing a professional translator or copywriter who is a member of a professional organisation helps you to know that they have the necessary translation or copywriting skills.
Prepare your brief
Your brief should include as much background information as you have, such as:
- What is the key message you are trying to convey?
- Who are your target readers? If you don’t have a specific group in mind and are tempted to say ‘general’, think about who your existing customers are, where they come from, what types of groups they are (families, groups, individuals), and what their jobs and interests are.
- Where will it be published and in what format?
- Details about your brand. Positioning, messaging, tone of voice, unique selling points. Any information you have made for your German marketing will be relevant to your English marketing too. If you already have produced glossaries and style guides they will be very helpful.
- Mention anything else that is important to you or that you are worried about.
What happens next?
Your English expert begins work on your project. You may need to answer queries as work progresses (if you are not available, arrange for a contact person to be available to do so). Your document should be delivered before the agreed deadline.
