Jeff Whittaker wrote:
Agencies always collect at least 50% of the project in advance before starting. If the client does not pay them, they can still pay the translator in full and the only thing they are out is the cost of their initial investment, their value-added service(s) and their commission. Therefore, they could in theory pay you in full upon delivery.
For direct clients, you are doing all the work and therefore, in theory, you should collect 100% of the payment before starting. And if you are charging your direct clients the same as agencies (although I cannot think of a good reason you would do this) your 100% is equivalent to the 50% they are accustomed to paying the agency in advance.
In general, I think translators are too shy when it comes to asking to be paid for our services, but pre-payment will definitely become the modus operandi for translation services in the near future.
I agree and am sure that there is no harm in asking for advance payment. However one shouldn't become lenient with his/her quality or timely delivery of work after receiving payment.
And indeed, "pre-payment will definitely become the modus operandi for translation services in the near future".
Regards,
PRAKAASH
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