Send us Fan Mail

Download your free direct clients worksheet

Book a free scouting call

Ever sat down to write a blog or social post and just… froze?

Not because of imposter syndrome (that’s real too), but because you weren’t actually sure what your ideal customer wants or needs from you?

It can feel like you're pulling content ideas out of a black hole—and that’s a sign of a deeper issue.

In this episode of Freelancer Training, I’m unpacking how to define your Ideal Customer Avatar (ICA)—and why this one person is the cornerstone of your business success.

💡 Why This Matters:

 If you don’t know exactly who you’re serving and why, you’re not building a business—you’re guessing. And guesswork doesn’t scale.

Your ICA is your perfect-fit customer. The one person:

✔️ Who actually wants what you offer
✔️ Who needs your content or services
✔️ Who you love working with

Once you’ve defined this person—what they value, what they struggle with, what they dream about—everything changes.

✅ Content becomes easier to write
✅ Offers become easier to sell
✅ Marketing becomes clearer, sharper, and more effective

This isn’t fluff—it’s foundational.

#IdealCustomerAvatar #ClientAttraction #KnowYourAudience #NicheMarketing #FreelancerTraining #ContentThatConverts #TranslationBusiness #BuildYourBrand #CustomerPersona #ContentStrategy #MarketingClarity #ServiceBasedBusiness #EntrepreneurialTranslator #FreelanceSuccess

Support the show

Still charging general medical translation rates?

You could be charging linguistic validation specialist rates.

I'm Jason Willis-Lee, and in just three live modules I'll show you exactly how LV projects work – from forward and back translation to cognitive debriefing, QA, and regulatory documentation.

This isn't theory. It's the real workflow I use with CROs and pharma sponsors.

You'll also learn how to position yourself, approach direct clients, and justify premium rates with confidence.

Starting 17 September. Live training, 12 months of recordings, plus my LV Quality Checklist and Cognitive Debriefing Interview Guide.

Stop competing as a translator. Start getting hired as an LV specialist.

Click here and secure your place today.

Send us a text

One of the biggest blind spots I see among freelance translators?

 A beautiful website... with no traffic.

If you’re not actively driving eyeballs to your site, it’s like building a storefront in the middle of a forest—and then wondering why no one walks in.

🔍 Without a strong on-page SEO strategy, you're basically wearing Harry Potter's invisible cloak.

 If prospects can’t see you, how can they buy from you?SEO is not optional—it’s foundational.

Done right, it builds a steady stream of warm, inbound leads for your translation business. And as I often say:

Everything flows downstream of lead generation.

Here are three key SEO elements you must optimise:

📌 Title Tags

• Unique to each page
• Include relevant keywords
• Keep under 60 characters

📌 Meta Descriptions

• Appear in search engine results to describe your content
• Write unique, compelling copy with keywords
• Limit to 160 characters

📌 Headers (H1, H2, H3)

• Organise your content clearly
• Improve both user experience and search visibility

📄 Download the Free On-Page SEO Worksheet:

#SEOForTranslators #FreelanceTranslator #OnPageSEO #TranslationBusiness #InboundMarketing #LeadGenerationTips #WebsiteVisibility #TranslatorMarketing #FreelancerSuccess #EntrepreneurialTranslator #SearchEngineOptimisation #OnlinePresence #BookedOutBusiness #DigitalMarketingForLinguists

✅ If this episode hits home, please subscribe and leave a review to support the show. On Apple Podcasts or Spotify, you can easily rate the show and share your feedback.

Just tap the ⭐ at the top of our show page and let us know how we’re doing.

Your support helps us bring you more valueable content! If you'd like to support our show you can now do so below.

Send us Fan Mail

Download your free direct clients worksheet

Book a free scouting call

If you're a freelance translator looking to transition from agency work to direct client relationships, this episode is packed with marketing strategies and client prospecting tips to help you secure higher-paying projects.

🚀 Why Work with Direct Clients? 

Direct clients often offer better rates, faster communication and greater control over project quality—no intermediaries slowing down responses or limiting your professional input. 

But working directly with businesses and institutions also comes with new challenges, such as higher expectations and extra service requests like DTP, additional language combinations or consulting services.

💡 Marketing Ideas for Finding Direct Clients: 

✅ Use your agency end clients as inspiration (DO NOT POACH!) 

✅ Target European higher education institutions with academic programs in English 

✅ Explore industry professional associations that offer membership directories and event listings 

✅ … And much much more!

#FreelanceTranslator #TranslationBusiness #LanguageServices #DirectClients #EntrepreneurialTranslator #MarketingForTranslators #TranslatorTips #FreelancerLife #RemoteWork #BusinessGrowth #CareerSuccess #PodcastEpisode #DigitalNomad #Localization #TranslationIndustry

Support the show

Still charging general medical translation rates?

You could be charging linguistic validation specialist rates.

I'm Jason Willis-Lee, and in just three live modules I'll show you exactly how LV projects work – from forward and back translation to cognitive debriefing, QA, and regulatory documentation.

This isn't theory. It's the real workflow I use with CROs and pharma sponsors.

You'll also learn how to position yourself, approach direct clients, and justify premium rates with confidence.

Starting 17 September. Live training, 12 months of recordings, plus my LV Quality Checklist and Cognitive Debriefing Interview Guide.

Stop competing as a translator. Start getting hired as an LV specialist.

Click here and secure your place today.

Send us Fan Mail

Download your free direct clients worksheet

Book a free scouting call

It’s that time of year when many of us pause to reflect, give thanks, and set our sights on what’s ahead.

As you look back over the past year, ask yourself:

 📈 Have I built a steady, sustainable income stream through my services?
 💡 Have I moved closer to the kind of business and life I want?

As for me?

The year unfolded completely differently from how I imagined. In the best—and most stretching—ways.

Late November (already?!), is always a key moment for me:

 ✔ Reflect on what worked
 ✔ Release what didn’t
 ✔ Recalibrate for what’s next

2023 was a year of validated learning—testing ideas, launching offers, and getting real feedback. It was uncomfortable at times, but also deeply rewarding.

🚀 I said some bold YESes.
 🌱 I grew as a business owner and as a person.
 💬 I welcomed my first cohort of early adopters.
 🙌 I saw the real impact of what I’ve built.

Looking ahead to 2024, here’s where I’m focusing:

✅ Design a business that gives me more of the work I love
✅ Build consistent, sustainable momentum
✅ Stay aligned with what moves the needle
✅ Embrace the long game—one intentional action at a time
✅ Keep relationships personal, relevant, and real

In this special year-end episode, I walk you through my biggest lessons of the year and preview what’s coming next.

#BlackFridayDeals #FreelanceTranslator #BusinessReflection #EntrepreneurJourney #OnlineBusinessGrowth #GoalSetting2024 #YearInReview #FreelancerSuccess #TranslationBusiness #BookedOutBusiness #OnlinePresence #FreelanceLife #MomentumMatters #EntrepreneurialTranslator #PlayTheLongGame

Support the show

Still charging general medical translation rates?

You could be charging linguistic validation specialist rates.

I'm Jason Willis-Lee, and in just three live modules I'll show you exactly how LV projects work – from forward and back translation to cognitive debriefing, QA, and regulatory documentation.

This isn't theory. It's the real workflow I use with CROs and pharma sponsors.

You'll also learn how to position yourself, approach direct clients, and justify premium rates with confidence.

Starting 17 September. Live training, 12 months of recordings, plus my LV Quality Checklist and Cognitive Debriefing Interview Guide.

Stop competing as a translator. Start getting hired as an LV specialist.

Click here and secure your place today.

Send us Fan Mail

Download your free direct clients worksheet

Book a free scouting call

Extra! Extra! This week, I go behind the scenes of one of the translation industry's most respected publications with none other than Radhika Holmstrom, editor of the ITI Bulletin.

In this candid and wide-ranging conversation, we dive into the craft of editorial excellence, the realities of publishing, and what makes writing really land with readers.

Here’s what you’ll take away from this episode:

🖋️ Why everyone gets edited—tweaks for tone, clarity, and house style are part of the process
🧭 How to ensure your piece flows with a logical, structured argument
🧠 Why great copywriting is about precision, purpose, and knowing your audience
⚖️ How to avoid letting commercial bias sneak into editorial content

Whether you're a translator, copywriter, or aspiring contributor, this episode will help sharpen your editorial instincts and elevate your writing.

🎙️ Don't forget to hit the '+' in Apple Podcasts or 'Follow' on Spotify so you never miss an episode!

#TranslationIndustry #EditorialInsights #CopywritingTips #ITIUK #FreelanceTranslator #ContentEditing #TranslationBusiness #WritingForPublication #ITIEditor #EntrepreneurialTranslator #FreelancerSuccess #BehindTheScenes #PodcastInterview

How to Become a Key Transator of Influence

Thursday 16th April 16h

Free registry here. 

Support the show

Still charging general medical translation rates?

You could be charging linguistic validation specialist rates.

I'm Jason Willis-Lee, and in just three live modules I'll show you exactly how LV projects work – from forward and back translation to cognitive debriefing, QA, and regulatory documentation.

This isn't theory. It's the real workflow I use with CROs and pharma sponsors.

You'll also learn how to position yourself, approach direct clients, and justify premium rates with confidence.

Starting 17 September. Live training, 12 months of recordings, plus my LV Quality Checklist and Cognitive Debriefing Interview Guide.

Stop competing as a translator. Start getting hired as an LV specialist.

Click here and secure your place today.

Send us Fan Mail

Download your free direct clients worksheet

Book a free scouting call

In this week's episode I chat with Nicki Bone, current ITI Board Chair. Here are the main takeaways from our wide-ranging conversation:

• the ITI is the voice for T&I professionals including coporate and academic members
• there is a wide range of subject and language networks to get involved with
• the ITI advocates tirelessly on behalf of its membership
• consider AI not a threat but more as an opportunity tp lean into
• marketing is an absolutely essential skill for small business owners

Book references mentioned;
The Strength of Ties by Mark Granovetter
The Keeper of Lost Things by Ruth Hogan

If you are considering joining more than 3000 members and signing up to the ITI, please visit the website for further information.

Please enjoy!

How to Become a Key Transator of Influence

Thursday 16th April 16h

Free registry here. 

Support the show

Still charging general medical translation rates?

You could be charging linguistic validation specialist rates.

I'm Jason Willis-Lee, and in just three live modules I'll show you exactly how LV projects work – from forward and back translation to cognitive debriefing, QA, and regulatory documentation.

This isn't theory. It's the real workflow I use with CROs and pharma sponsors.

You'll also learn how to position yourself, approach direct clients, and justify premium rates with confidence.

Starting 17 September. Live training, 12 months of recordings, plus my LV Quality Checklist and Cognitive Debriefing Interview Guide.

Stop competing as a translator. Start getting hired as an LV specialist.

Click here and secure your place today.

Send us Fan Mail

Download your free direct clients worksheet

Book a free scouting call

How does a former architect breathe fresh air into translation and interpreting (T&I) industry leadership? 

Join us in this episode as Sara Crofts, the newly appointed ITI Chief Executive, shares her unique perspective and vision for the future of professional translation associations.

💡 Key Takeaways from Our Conversation: 

✅ How Sara’s conservation background has shaped her professional approach to language industry leadership 

✅ The fascinating link between church conservation terminology and translation practices 

✅ The Chief Executive’s number one concern for the translation and interpreting industry 

✅ Strategies to AI-proof your career in the age of advancing technology 

✅ What we can expect from ITI’s near future—insights straight from the top!

#TranslationIndustry #FreelanceTranslator #LanguageServices #ITI #TranslationLeadership #Interpreting #ProfessionalAssociations #AIProofing #EntrepreneurialTranslator #BusinessGrowth #CareerSuccess #RemoteWork #PodcastEpisode

How to Become a Key Transator of Influence

Thursday 16th April 16h

Free registry here. 

Support the show

Still charging general medical translation rates?

You could be charging linguistic validation specialist rates.

I'm Jason Willis-Lee, and in just three live modules I'll show you exactly how LV projects work – from forward and back translation to cognitive debriefing, QA, and regulatory documentation.

This isn't theory. It's the real workflow I use with CROs and pharma sponsors.

You'll also learn how to position yourself, approach direct clients, and justify premium rates with confidence.

Starting 17 September. Live training, 12 months of recordings, plus my LV Quality Checklist and Cognitive Debriefing Interview Guide.

Stop competing as a translator. Start getting hired as an LV specialist.

Click here and secure your place today.

Send us Fan Mail

Download your free direct clients worksheet

Book a free scouting call

Here’s how I got much closer to hitting six figures as a niche freelance translator:
I upskilled my direct client marketing strategy—and the results were transformational.

✅ I built an AI-resilient, client-focused system
✅ I reduced my reliance on low- and mid-tier agencies
✅ I positioned myself to attract top-end clients who value expertise

Now, I’m sharing everything that worked for me in my brand-new Direct Client Marketing Mini Course—built for translators who are serious about scaling their business sustainably.

What you'll learn inside:
🎯 Smart strategies to identify who actually needs your services
💡 Dozens of practical ideas to attract and nurture direct client leads
🧠 Email marketing workflows to manage contacts, campaigns, and automation
📋 A behind-the-scenes look at the marketing systems I use in my own business
🔥 My “special sauce” for standing out and converting with confidence

This course is for you if:
✔️ You’re ready to put in the work to land your first—or next—direct client
✔️ You have a niche or a “talkaboutable edge”
✔️ You’re open to testing and adapting new strategies

It’s not for you if:
✘ You’re a complete beginner
✘ You haven’t chosen a niche yet
✘ You’re unwilling to change your approach

💬 What a past student said:
“Great to talk to you! Lots of food for thought—and I feel a renewed drive to turn things around!”

Investment: €97 Includes:

 ✅ Immediate access to all self-paced course materials
 ✅ A 60-minute 1:1 personalised coaching session
 ✅ Full access to my own direct client marketing system

🔗 Sign up for the Direct Client Marketing Mini Course here:

#DirectClientMarketing #FreelanceTranslator #TranslationBusiness #ClientAcquisition #NicheMarketing #FreelancerSuccess #LanguageIndustry #MarketingForTranslators #BookedOutBusiness #EntrepreneurialTranslator #LeadGeneration #EmailMarketing #AIProofSkills #HighValueClients

Support the show

Still charging general medical translation rates?

You could be charging linguistic validation specialist rates.

I'm Jason Willis-Lee, and in just three live modules I'll show you exactly how LV projects work – from forward and back translation to cognitive debriefing, QA, and regulatory documentation.

This isn't theory. It's the real workflow I use with CROs and pharma sponsors.

You'll also learn how to position yourself, approach direct clients, and justify premium rates with confidence.

Starting 17 September. Live training, 12 months of recordings, plus my LV Quality Checklist and Cognitive Debriefing Interview Guide.

Stop competing as a translator. Start getting hired as an LV specialist.

Click here and secure your place today.

Send us a text

Download your free storytelling worksheet

Book a free scouting call

In this episode of How to Find More Direct Clients, I sit down with Monica Caldeiro, a former beta student of Become a Booked Out Freelance Translator. Monica generously shares how the course—and especially the 1:1 sessions—helped her take meaningful steps toward building a more fulfilling freelance career.

If you’re a translator looking to transition away from agency work and attract direct clients, Monica’s story will feel both relatable and inspiring.

🎯 Key takeaways:

✔️ Why many translators at Monica’s stage are focused on leaving agency dependency behind
✔️ How she’s using LinkedIn to find and engage direct clients
✔️ The importance of personal and professional growth as a long game, not an overnight fix

Monica’s experience is a powerful reminder that progress comes from clarity, action, and support. If you're ready to grow your translation business on your terms, this episode is for you.

🧠 #freelance translator journey, #transition from agencies, #direct client acquisition, #LinkedIn for translators, #marketing for language professionals, #freelance translation business, #more direct clients translator course, #translator #coaching success

✅ Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review to help more language professionals grow their business with confidence.

✅ If this episode hits home, please subscribe and leave a review to support the show. On Apple Podcasts or Spotify, you can easily rate the show and share your feedback.

Just tap the ⭐ at the top of our show page and let us know how we’re doing.

Your support helps us bring you more valueable content! If you'd like to support our show you can now do so below.

Send us Fan Mail

Download your free storytelling worksheet

Book a free scouting call

In this episode I talk to social media expert and my business coaching colleague Brittany Worthington from The Social Brittify. 

Brittany teaches us how to optimize our social media profiles for sales. Here are the 3 main takeaways from our conversation: 

• Batch creation of content is not mandatory
• Remove fake bot accounts on your profiles
• Consider working with other brands as an affiliate

Please enjoy!
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2025705/episodes/13705773

How to Become a Key Transator of Influence

Thursday 16th April 16h

Free registry here. 

Support the show

Still charging general medical translation rates?

You could be charging linguistic validation specialist rates.

I'm Jason Willis-Lee, and in just three live modules I'll show you exactly how LV projects work – from forward and back translation to cognitive debriefing, QA, and regulatory documentation.

This isn't theory. It's the real workflow I use with CROs and pharma sponsors.

You'll also learn how to position yourself, approach direct clients, and justify premium rates with confidence.

Starting 17 September. Live training, 12 months of recordings, plus my LV Quality Checklist and Cognitive Debriefing Interview Guide.

Stop competing as a translator. Start getting hired as an LV specialist.

Click here and secure your place today.