For over 10 years, I’ve actively attended conferences, trade shows, and networking events to represent my translation business — and discovered powerful networking strategies for language professionals that truly work. These face-to-face connections consistently bring new clients, industry insights, and referrals that no Zoom call can replicate. Strong relationships are forged through personal interaction. In today’s hyper-connected and fiercely competitive landscape, mastering the art of networking is more critical than ever.
Recently, I participated in an exclusive masterclass with Scotland’s top networking expert, Colin McKeand. Among the many insights shared, this resonated deeply: it’s not just what you know or who you know; it’s about who knows you, what you do, who you do it for, and whether you’re exceptional at it. Your potential clients might not be present at the event, but their key contacts certainly could be. I’ve witnessed first-hand how powerful these indirect connections can be, as many of my best referrals came from people I met during networking events.
Additionally, for Language Service Providers (LSPs), having strong industry connections is crucial. Numerous times, colleagues from other translation companies reached out to Translators Family when they needed Polish or Ukrainian translation or desktop publishing services. Conversely, we’ve turned to trusted peers when we lacked capacity or specialised resources. Strategic alliances aren’t just helpful; they’re essential for success.
Let the numbers speak
Data highlights the power of networking in the LSP industry:
- 75% of freelance translators secure new clients through referrals or word-of-mouth. (Source: Inbox Translation, 2020 Freelancer Survey)
- Industry events by associations such as ELIA, GALA, and ATC, along with freelance translator conferences (e.g., BP or KTLC), consistently generate business leads and powerful partnerships through mixers, roundtable discussions, and informal networking sessions.
- Just one meaningful recommendation or strategic collaboration has often led to transformative opportunities for language professionals.
In short, effective networking doesn’t just drive business; it accelerates professional growth and establishes market dominance.
7 strategic networking tips for LSPs
Whether you’re new to the industry or aiming to scale aggressively, these tips provide a decisive advantage:
- Join respected associations: Membership in reputable organisations like ATC (UK) or ELIA boosts your visibility, credibility, and gives you direct access to influential clients and high-level peers.
- Cultivate genuine relationships: Don’t simply hunt for immediate clients; build authentic friendships. Personal connections often open doors to exclusive referrals. Attend local LSP events, such as LocLunches or Proz pow-wows, and broader business meetups like those by the Federation of Small Businesses, hosted regularly across the UK and online.
- Position yourself strategically: Attend high-value business expos and industry-specific trade shows, not just translation events. Expand your network into industries you aim to serve.
- Always come prepared:Ensure your business cards (or digital equivalents) are professional and readily accessible. Familiarise yourself with the event’s format, dress code, and attendee list (if available) in advance.
- Perfect your icebreakers and pitch: Avoid opening conversations with dry questions like “What do you do?” Instead, engage others dynamically (“Are you a regular here?”, “Did you travel far today?”). When discussing your services, briefly share impactful client success stories to capture interest. Your pitch must clearly articulate a problem, your unique solution, and its compelling benefits.
- Leverage LinkedIn: Maintain a polished, complete LinkedIn profile. Use QR code in LinkedIn mobile app to connect quickly during events. Post regularly and proactively on this platform to engage with prospective clients and partners. Strong online visibility can rapidly translate into direct project offers, valuable referrals, and influential collaborations.
- Consistently follow up: Post-event follow-ups are crucial. A concise email or LinkedIn message keeps doors open and builds long-term opportunities.
Your next step? Let’s connect. Subscribe and follow this newsletter for actionable strategies, exclusive insights, and industry-specific marketing expertise tailored for ambitious language professionals.
by Oleg Semerikov, CEO of Translators Family