Translator Status Signaling Mechanisms on Online Translator– Client Social Networking Sites (SNSs)

Consideration of translator status and professionalism has attracted increasing attention in the field of Translation Studies (TS) over the past decade. While translators have traditionally been seen as anonymous, invisible, and subservient in the TS literature, recent efforts to enhance the status of translators include the proposed use of status signals such as academic qualifications, work experience, and membership in professional organizations. To date, however, the signaling mechanisms in online communities, in particular online translator–client social networking sites (SNSs) where two-way communication between clients and translators is allowed, have been relatively understudied. This paper uses a Digital Translator Status Signaling (DTSS) framework developed for this study to analyze responses from a questionnaire survey completed by 257 translators. Results indicate that respondents attach the greatest importance to practical experience and demonstrable competence, whereas formal credentials and association memberships are considered less decisive. Accuracy, bilingual and domain-specific knowledge, and accountability for work quality are considered the most important indicators of professionalism. Status signaling mechanisms on SNSs are viewed as useful for differentiating professionals from amateurs, for building client trust, and for providing global accessibility to those lacking traditional credentials. In addition, the findings highlight a need for balanced and credible approaches to signaling translator professionalism on SNSs.