This year, I’ve started offering Dutch to English translation and editing services. Though not the original core of my business, it’s a great expansion that has grown from a need I have seen during my consulting, teaching and training in the Netherlands.
I truly admire the English language skills of the Dutch and have lived here for over a decade. However I see that many seem to overestimate their English language skills or, quite understandably, just miss things. This ranges from small businesses right through to government and large corporate organisations.
Clients can benefit from not just my native English language, but also my fluent Dutch and overall strong skills in communication. I hold a Masters in International Communication Management and have taught subjects such as intercultural communication, social media and marketing at university level for almost 10 years. I’m currently completing a course in online journalism through the London School of Journalism.
Hiring me as a translator or editor may be more expensive than just a pay-per-word text translation, but I work with you to ensure your goals are reached and you do not waste your money with a sub-standard job. I can also work with you on simply being another set of (native English) eyes on a translation project.
Dutch to English translation
I do not charge per word but instead will discuss each project with you first and agree on a set price which will include consultations and rework where necessary. After all, translation shouldn’t be just word for word, but ensure that the original meaning is still conveyed as closely as possible. Therefore an initial meeting, and follow up discussions are important to ensure your message is clear in both languages. Please contact me with some basic information and we will schedule a (free) call to see if it’s a good fit.
Dutch to English editing
I can spot in seconds the many errors that are made when the Dutch translate into English. Can you? So often, I see glaring mistakes that, sadly, undermine the well-intentioned efforts made in Dutch to English language marketing and corporate communications. I can double-check English language text that has already been translated (either by a Dutch speaker who is almost fluent in English, or by translation software) to ensure the original meaning is maintained, and to maintain a positive brand image with native English speakers. Depending on the size of the document or project, this could be just an hour or two’s investment on your part, and save costly mistakes that could affect your company’s reputation.
NO English to Dutch translation
English to Dutch translation is not a service that I offer. Though I can read and understand Dutch well, I am not a native speaker and cannot offer that true native angle that I believe is important. I can refer you to others who do though if you contact me with some information about your project.
Sample projects
These are a few projects I have worked on this year and am open to more. Contact me for availability and a personalised quote.
The Hague OnLine
As editor & community manager, I regularly translate Dutch language events and feature articles into English.
Echt Scheiden: Zo doe je dat
I created a 2 page flyer for auto Barbara Jan in English, summarising the main steps from her Dutch language book about dealing with a divorce in The Netherlands. I’ve also drafted an English translation of the book for her and advised on nuances of ensuring her message is clearly conveyed when she decides to finalise and publish her English version.
Delft MaMa
As chairperson of this not-for-profit organisation, I was regularly translating Dutch into English for the team of official documents and day-to-day communications.
VTV Thuismaatjes
Via Albedo Communicatie – translated an 8 page Dutch language booklet into English. This organisation is seeking volunteers and participants for this project.
Positive Minds
Via Albedo Communicatie – checking and editing 10 English language lesson plans for primary school teachers. These were written in Dutch and provided to me in English. I found and highlighted several mistakes and clarified some aspects of the translation which may not have been clear to native English speakers.
Zestee 