To become a Finnish translator, one should have an undergraduate degree in Scandinavian languages with a focus on Finnish, complete translation internships, immerse themselves in Finnish culture, and apply for jobs with embassies, government agencies, or Finnish companies. Immersion in Finnish culture can be achieved through travel, study abroad programs, and online resources. Public service positions and international companies based in Finland are potential employment options.
Becoming a Finnish translator usually starts with at least an undergraduate degree in Scandinavian languages, with an emphasis on Finnish. This degree can become even more valuable if you have completed translation internships during your last two years of school. It is also advisable to immerse yourself in Finnish culture and history when becoming a Finnish translator. Your employment options after graduation could range from working for embassies or government agencies, customer service jobs with Finnish companies or with local companies that may do business in Finland.
As there may be limited degree programs in Finnish only, a career in Finnish translation can start with a degree in Scandinavian Languages. Most Scandinavian language degree programs allow majoring in Norwegian, Swedish or Finnish. Scandinavian history and culture classes can help you better understand the Finnish language. Your college experience may include study abroad experiences in Finland and participation in multicultural organizations.
A translation internship allows you to build your resume while gaining conversational Finnish experience. You can work with your academic advisor to find regional companies with Finnish customers or to get an internship at a government agency that deals with trade in Scandinavia. You may be able to find a point of sale or an office of a Finnish company in your area that needs a customer service translator.
Immersion in Finnish culture allows you to become a Finnish translator familiar with the country’s latest cultures and trends. You can also plan a postgraduate trip to Finland to test and expand your language skills. A budget-saving immersion option is to travel to communities in your area established by Finnish immigrants. These communities may feature food, clothing, and celebrations associated with Finland. You can also search online for audio and video files and other Finland practice materials to test your comprehension skills in becoming a Finnish translator.
You can apply for public service positions by becoming a Finnish translator. One source for translation jobs is the Finnish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which operates embassies around the world. You can apply for entry-level translation jobs, answering questions from tourists and translating for diplomatic officials. National governments in Sweden, Norway and other neighboring countries can hire Finnish translators to ensure clear communications.
Becoming a Finnish translator working with a national or international company based in Finland could be another option. You might find work in Finland with a dealer who needs a translator to handle customer inquiries or screen candidates who don’t speak Finnish. Its services can also be used during shareholder meetings and presentations performed by Finnish executives trying to communicate with foreign audiences. Given the global economy, it may also be possible to find a translator position with a company near you that does business in Finland or Scandinavia in general.
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