If you wonder why some freelancers get steady work from Language Service Providers (LSPs) while others almost don’t receive reply, you’re not alone. After 13+ years in the translation industry, working with agencies of all sizes, I’ve realized something important:
LSPs rarely tell freelancers what they actually want.
Not because it’s secret, but because they don’t have the time, the systems, or sometimes even the awareness to explain it.
Here are the big things they wish we knew:
1. They notice professionalism long before they notice talent
Most translators assume the work speaks for itself.
It doesn’t. At least not at the beginning.
What agencies notice first is:
- how quickly you respond
- whether you follow instructions
- whether your file names are logical
- whether your invoicing is correct
- how easy you are to work with
Professionalism is the first filter. Talent is the second.
Your skills matter but they won’t be noticed if your email replies or your workflow are chaotic.
2. PMs (project managers) love freelancers who take ownership
The dream freelancer of every PM:
- asks questions, when really needed
- flags issues early
- solves small problems on their own
- offers solutions, not problems
- never goes M.I.A. mid-project
Agencies value translators who think like partners, not like task-takers.
They want someone who can say:
“I found this issue, and here’s what I suggest. Let me know which option you prefer.”
That approach puts you above 80% of freelancers, who will most often simply report the issue and wait for a solution.
3. They would happily pay more for someone who reduces their stress
LSPs don’t hire freelancers to save money.
They hire freelancers to save time, risk, and headaches.
If you consistently:
- deliver clean files
- meet deadlines
- require less QA efforts
- communicate clearly
…you become worth more than someone who has a lower $/word rate.
4. They hate chasing people
PMs are juggling multiple clients, deadlines, and internal chaos.
What they do not want is:
- chasing for an answer
- chasing for a confirmation
- chasing for an invoice
- chasing for updated availability
Want to instantly stand out?
Reply to emails like a project manager’s dream colleague. Instead of thinking “I’m working on another project right now, so I will answer tomorrow”, aim to reply instantly even with a quick “Got it, I’ll send it by EOB today”.
5. They don’t expect perfection, but they expect consistency
One of the biggest misconceptions among freelancers is believing that LSPs demand flawless work 100% of the time.
In reality, what they actually want is:
- a stable level of quality
- predictable output
- transparency when something goes wrong
Consistency always beats occasional brilliance.
6. They rely heavily on internal notes about freelancers
Agencies keep internal profiles with more or less detailed notes.
Some examples:
- “Always delivers on time.”
- “Good at marketing content.”
- “Slow to reply.”
- “Requires extra QA.”
- “Great with tech clients.”
- “Not suitable for urgent projects.”
These internal notes matter more than many freelancers realize.
The good news? A few months of strong performance can completely change how you’re perceived.
7. They want to send you more work, but you need to let them
LSPs LOVE reliable freelancers.
They don’t want to constantly hire new vendors and forget them. They want to stick with the ones they already trust and give them more projects, because a steady, proven talent network means:
- less time spent onboarding
- fewer files to fix
- fewer communication issues
- greater predictability
So, what should you do? If you show even a small hint of enthusiasm and availability, PMs remember you when a nice project comes in.
Of course, to be viewed as reliable, you need to be reliable. But sometimes all it takes is a comment:
“I really enjoyed this project. Feel free to keep me in mind for similar work.”
8. They wish freelancers understood market realities
Agencies aren’t always the villains when it comes to rates. Of course, corporate greed is also a factor.
But they often are squeezed by:
- demanding clients
- tight deadlines
- unrealistic budgets
- global competition
- platforms that push prices down
Understanding the pressures they face helps you negotiate more effectively and respectfully.
9. They appreciate translators who understand technology
You don’t have to be a tech guru, but LSPs value freelancers who:
- know how to use CAT tools confidently
- understand basic file formats
- can handle cloud-based platforms
- aren’t afraid of technology
Why? Because every tech problem slows everyone down. A translator who can troubleshoot their software is pure gold.
10. They value honesty more than you think
Don’t guess, don’t cheat, don’t blame it on them. Say the truth when:
· something went wrong
· you need more time
· the project is outside your expertise
· you overlooked a client’s special request
Agencies prefer:
“I’m not the best fit for this one.”
…over silence, guessing, or excuses.
Honesty builds trust more than flawless performance.
So, what’s the bottom line?
LSPs want translators who make their lives easier.
If you show that you’re trying to put yourself in their shoes and actually incorporate these factors into your work, you naturally become one of their favorite people to work with.
Not because you’re the cheapest.
Not because you’re the most experienced.
But because you’re the kind of freelancer they never have to worry about.
Did you like these tips? I have plenty of them to share!
Find more in my ebook Become a Freelance Translator—From Language Lover to Location-Free Career
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