I was relieved to see new clients reaching out and new projects being discussed. Not only do I love my job but making money isn’t exactly optional these days.
My own work experience in customer service jobs, as a French-as-a-second-language teacher and currently as a freelance copywriter, editor and translator, plus tips on work etiquette and workplaces in Canada.
I was relieved to see new clients reaching out and new projects being discussed. Not only do I love my job but making money isn’t exactly optional these days.
Each profession has open and dirty secrets the rest of us don’t even suspect. Here are a few “insider secrets” from a translator and copywriter.
“Hypothetically—asking for a friend, obviously—can a foreign national work in Canada without a proper permit?”
No matter how it’s phrased, this is the gist of the question I get asked once in a while.
We’re trying to change the way we interact because someone, somewhere could be sick. But shouldn’t we the way we deal with viruses when someone does get sick?
It’s amazing how many prospective clients tell me I “shouldn’t worry about money at this stage” when said stage is after the project was explained and when I have to accept or decline the assignment.
Last September’s tornado acted as a premonitory allegory of fall.
I’m a freelancer. Not only there’s no guarantee I’ll get assignments, but there’s always a small risk I won’t be paid. Illegal, sure, but who’s looking forward to a legal battle?
It’s like being 16 again and expecting a text or a phone call from a crush—except I’m 34 and I’m waiting for work assignments.
The different jobs I had taught me practical skills but also provided numerous clues to decipher Canadian culture.
It came down to either paying hosting fees and keeping the blog online or just giving up on ten years of blogging.
This summer, I’m celebrating the six-year anniversary of my company, Maple World Translation. I’m still a full-time freelancer and despite the ups and downs, I love my status.
I'm familiar with the resume-writing exercise. I’ve seen it all, from professional list of accomplishments on glossy paper to handwritten resumes (!).
For years, I advised immigrants who couldn’t find a job right away to give staffing agencies a call, at least to gain work experience in Canada. Today, I'm not sure I would give such advice.
I can't stress it enough—having people willing to act as a reference and vouch for your work skills and personal qualities is often the best job-search weapon you can have.
I busted five myths about freelancing, it’s now time to highlight the perks. Eh, I’m not a masochist, there is a reason why I quit my last office job!
The freelancing dream is very much alive and yes, perks exist. Unfortunately, there are many misconceptions about this career choice.
When I started freelancing, I swore I would keep a close eye on my billing system and outstanding invoices.
After settling down and going through the practical steps of moving to a new country, you will probably start looking for a job.
Let me get this straight: you cannot get work done and take care of a young kid at the same time. I know for sure... I've tried.
Two years ago, I barged into a local accountant’s office, slightly panicked. “I need to incorporate”, I said. “Whatever that means”, I added sheepishly.
The “mute” button was our most handy tool.