What makes translation partnerships last over a decade
Originally shared on LinkedIn, this post explores some of the factors that keep client relationships strong, collaborative, and mutually respectful for over 15 years.
Because long-term clients don’t happen by accident. Both sides have to adapt, commit and invest in the relationship.
I recently asked some current and old clients to send me a few words about our collaboration. One of them started like this:
«We have worked with Ruth for over 15 years…»
They also added: «We have never had any need to question her translations — which is quite remarkable.»
Reading this made me feel deeply grateful. It also made me reflect on our consistency and the human side of long-term collaborations: the trust, patience and shared journey.
Over 15 years, quite a few things have changed:
– Moving continents and time zones a few times
– Constantly evolving systems and tools
– Shifting funding structures after Brexit
– A global pandemic that… well, you all know about that…
– Security measures becoming increasingly stricter
And we’ve kept working together, change after change.
Why?
Because this collaboration has always been a two-way flow.
On my side, what we keep talking about again and again:
Accuracy | Adaptability | Confidentiality | Trustworthiness | Dependability | Respect for deadlines
And, on theirs:
Respected evolving rates | Consistently paid on time | Valued my work all the way | Always treated me as a professional partner | Invested in the relationship, choosing continuity over short-term savings
These are a few of the things that make 15+ years possible.
Loyalty is built, brick by brick.
So go get your mortar, remember to respect your clients and expect respect too, because long-term partnerships are built on trust, adaptation and mutual respect.