Some translators also provide proofreading and editing services.

Interpreters deal with the spoken word, translating speech from one language to another for clients in a wide range of settings, including business meetings, conferences, court proceedings and public service provision.

While some professional linguists provide both translation and interpreting services, translators usually only translate into their native language, but most interpreters are required to translate both ways between the languages they specialise in. Translators and interpreters are highly trained, skilled linguists and often specialise in one or more technical fields such as law, medicine, literature or engineering. They generally have extensive knowledge of the culture, attitudes and practices of the country or countries in which their specialist languages are spoken.

This profile provides information about starting up and running a translation and interpreting service. It describes the skills required, the training available, the current market trends and the key trading issues. It also explains the legislation that must be complied with and provides sources of further information and support.