José Henrique Lamensdorf wrote:
a) I am busy; or turnaround required is too short - I tell them what I CAN do. If that's not enough, I'll suggest them a few colleagues I know that could handle it, and wish them good luck.
b) 'Wrong' language - They need translation from/into a language I don't work. I refer to a colleague that works in the required pair, and wish them good luck.
c) 'Wrong' subject area - It's technical material in a subject that I have declared off-limits for me. I refer them to a colleague specialized in that area whose competence I know, and wish them good luck.
d) Too large volume - I refer them to one of the translation agencies I usually work for, or to a colleague who is used to setting up translator teams; in the latter case I'm often in that team.
e) Cumbersome logistics - Client needs a certified/sworn translation, but both they and the document are far away. I refer them to a colleague licensed for the intended purpose closer to where they and the document are.
The list doesn't end here, of course.
I assume that if the client contacted me with a job, they are seeking a solution. If I can provide it, I'll do my best in doing it. If I can't, I'll try my best to point them to what I think is the right direction.
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