She has a real love of languages and a fascination with the world of translation. Three months ago, Sonia joined the small but perfectly formed family that is Okodia Translation Services and she is loving her work as project manager. She says that one of the things she likes most about working at Okodia is being able to talk to people from different parts of the world without having to leave her house. Today we’re going to find out more about our colleague.
– Why are you interested in the world of translation?
I’ve been interested in languages and cultures since I was a child. I always studied in bilingual English schools so when it came to choosing a university degree, I realised that I couldn’t imagine a world where I only studied in Spanish, although I was also clear that I didn’t want to become a teacher. It was because of that, and the fact that I like to read and write, that I decided to try my hand at translation. That proved to be the right decision.
– What is the strangest thing that has happened to you in the time you have been working at Okodia?
I always find the configuration of Word curious for those languages that do not read from left to right, in the way we are used to. For example, for documents in Hebrew (which is read from right to left, the opposite of English), the tab is not inserted to the right of the word, but rather to the left. Until you get used to it, it seems a bit peculiar.
– How would you describe the world of translation?
I find it fascinating. We learn so much every day and there is an incredible camaraderie. It’s just a shame it’s so low profile. Medicine is talked about as a vocational career, but translation is the same, and you really can tell.
– What advice would you give companies thinking about whether or not they should translate their content?
I would tell them that it’s a matter of mathematics: the more people who can understand you, the more customers you can have. It’s also about treating the customer well. The easier you make it for them, the more loyal they will be to the brand. A good translation is an investment that more than repays the money spent.
In terms of you as a person
– What are your greatest achievements?
There are people who tell me that they feel comfortable talking to me because they don’t feel that I’m going to judge them. There are of course more spectacular achievements, but thinking about it, what I’m most proud of is the fact that people know that they can come to me if they have a problem.
– Tell me about a situation in which you had to make a decision and take a risk without knowing the scope of the possible repercussions.
Really, you never really know what repercussions a decision might have for you. Without being too philosophical, every time you buy a present you take the chance that they won’t like it, but you never know if it will really upset them, if they will be resigned or if they will cry with emotion. Always expect the unexpected!
– What are your favourite hobbies?
I really like travelling, reading, writing, listening to music and sports in general. I’m also very fond of staying in and watching series or cooking.
– A country where you would like to live.
There are so many! Maybe Canada or even Scotland, specifically Edinburgh. I really like the atmosphere there.
– Is there a language that particularly catches your attention? Why?
I don’t know why, but every time I read something in another language, I find myself wanting to learn that language. However, I’ve been thinking about learning sign language for a long time now. I find it very interesting and so essential.
