At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide face-to-face interpreting services in various languages for diverse clients.
- Company: Talking Heads, a vibrant language agency based in Sheffield.
- Benefits: Flexible freelance work with competitive pay and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: DBS check required; support available for arranging it.
- Why this job: Make a difference in people's lives while enhancing your interpreting skills.
- Qualifications: Open to new and experienced interpreters; training provided.
The predicted salary is between 20 - 20 £ per hour.
Talking Heads, a growing language agency based in Sheffield, is currently looking to recruit freelance interpreters in the following languages:
- Kurdish Kurmanji
- Kurdish Badini
- Slovak Romani
- Telugu
- Tigrinya
- Mandarin
- Somali
- Tamil
- Yoruba
- Serbian
This full-time on-site position offers great opportunities for career growth. This is a flexible opportunity, with face-to-face and/or remote interpreting work offered on an as-needed basis, supporting clients across medical, social care, and legal settings in Sheffield and the surrounding areas.
Who can apply?
- New interpreters – full training will be provided through our Induction Course
- Experienced interpreters (e.g. Level 3 Community Interpreting, DPSI, or equivalent qualifications)
A DBS check is required. If you do not currently hold one, please let us know and we can assist you in arranging this.
Job Type: Freelance
Pay: £16.00-£20.00 per hour
Work authorisation: United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: On the road
Face to Face Freelance Interpreting at Talking Heads in Sheffield employer: TALKING HEADS
Talking Heads is an exceptional employer for freelance interpreters, offering a flexible work environment that allows you to balance your professional and personal life while making a meaningful impact in the Sheffield community. With comprehensive training provided for new interpreters and opportunities for career advancement, you will be supported every step of the way in your interpreting journey. Join us to work in diverse settings, from medical to legal, and enjoy competitive pay rates as you grow your skills in a dynamic and inclusive culture.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Face to Face Freelance Interpreting at Talking Heads in Sheffield
✨Join Customer Support Communities
Dive into online forums and communities like the Customer Support Community on Slack or Discord. These spaces are goldmines for freelance gigs as members often share clients looking for temporary support, and it's a great way to build your network.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Make sure to have a public portfolio or a strong LinkedIn profile highlighting your customer support skills. Share testimonials, case studies, and examples of how you've helped clients. This kind of visibility can catch the eye of companies seeking freelancers—like how TALKING HEADS might be looking for someone as flexible as you.
✨Freelance Platforms Are Your Friend
Get yourself set up on platforms like Upwork or Freelancer. They’re perfect for scoring short-term contracts in customer support. Plus, you can build your reputation through reviews, which will help you score bigger gigs down the line.
✨Tap into Local Businesses
Local businesses often need temporary customer support, especially during busy seasons. Don’t hesitate to walk into shops or call up local offices. You'd be surprised how many might be open to hiring freelancers like us to help them out!
We think you need these skills to ace Face to Face Freelance Interpreting at Talking Heads in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Customer Support Skills:In customer support, we know that communication is key. Highlight your experience in resolving conflicts, understanding customer needs, and handling inquiries effectively. Include real examples from previous roles that demonstrate these skills.
Prepare a Solid Portfolio:As a freelancer, your portfolio is your calling card! Include testimonials from satisfied customers, case studies on how you solved particular problems, and your approach to different customer scenarios. This will demonstrate your versatility and capability in customer support.
Be Clear About Your Availability:Freelance gigs often come with flexible hours, but it's important to outline when you can work. Be open about your availability in your application—this helps the hiring manager at TALKING HEADS know if you can meet their needs without any hiccups!
Tailor Your Application to TALKING HEADS:Every company has its vibe and customer approach. Research TALKING HEADS's mission and their support philosophy. Use this knowledge to personalise your cover letter and show how your style aligns perfectly with theirs—this makes you stand out in the freelance crowd!
How to prepare for a job interview at TALKING HEADS
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Freelancing in customer support means you'll often be solving unique problems on the fly. Be ready to share specific examples where you've effectively addressed customer issues, highlighting your critical thinking and adaptability. It’s all about showing you can think on your feet!
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Tools of the Trade
Knowing your way around customer support tools like Zendesk, Freshdesk, or even CRM systems can set you apart. Make sure to mention any experience with these platforms during the interview to demonstrate your readiness to hit the ground running at TALKING HEADS.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Your Availability and Flexibility
As a freelancer, your availability can be a key factor in the decision-making process. Be prepared to discuss how many hours you can commit and your willingness to work odd hours or on weekends to meet customer needs. This shows your commitment and readiness to jump into the role.
✨Highlight Your Communication Style
In customer support, how you communicate can make or break the customer experience. Be ready to talk about your communication style, perhaps even demonstrating it during the interview. Show that you're personable, empathetic, and capable of conveying complex information clearly to clients.
