Category: Personal Development

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Mentorship Personal Development Purpose

Mentorship: Be one and Get one.

I never thought that one day people would look up to me; and ask for my support and guidance as their mentor – the exact same thing I did to my current mentors a few years ago. There’s always that hint of pressure to exceed expectations when asked for advice, because you suddenly realise that what you say to the person could make or break their career.

“Thuli, how did you know you wanted to become a professional interpreter?” “What did you study?” “How many years did it take you?” “Please help me get my SATI accreditation, I’m ready.”

These are common questions I get asked often by budding interpreters who want to be just like me.

I recently read a blog by The University of the People about the importance of mentorship: The reasons to either become one or get one. There have been countless moments in my life where I leaned on a trusted friend, manager, or spiritual guide to help shape my future opportunities for the better in various areas of my life.

A mentor is someone you can develop a long-term relationship with that’s centered on growth and development in a specific area. They are soundboards, sages, and great listeners. As an entrepreneur, I am fortunate to have two significant mentors to offer guidance on my journey: Melanie Hawken, CEO of Lionesses of Africa and Michael Muckian from the Cherie Blair Foundation Women in Business Mentorship Program. Their patience, words of wisdom and objective perspective has given me the courage to continue along my journey boldly.

Here are three benefits of having a mentor:

  1. Broadens your professional network

Mentors are usually well-connected and liked by people in their industry. They can introduce you to decision-makers who can open doors, bring more exposure your business, and drive potential customers to your products or services.

The past few months of building relationships with Melanie and Micheal has given me access to exclusive accelerator programs, financial advice, and some media coverage on social media. Each encounter builds my confidence and clears the path for me grow from strength to strength.

2. Learning from their experience

Mistakes will always happen, but the good thing about having a mentor is that you don’t have to repeat the same mistakes they made in the past. This will save you time and resources, while allowing you to advance on projects that will bring in profit.

A common mistake that both my mentors recalled was trying to do everything on their own with delegation or asking for help. They emphasize that team work is the best and fastest way to achieve a big goal – I just can’t do it alone. Sure, it will require an element of trust, support and patience; empowering others should be the end in mind.

3. Doesn’t cost much money

Mentors are a priceless asset that offer their golden nuggets of knowledge for free; of course the price you pay is commitment, time, and perseverance which in the end are worth it.

My personal motto is “Ask for time, not money”. I’ve learned that people are usually busy and don’t have enough time on their hands; so when my mentors avail themselves I make sure to keep my diary open and always show up. It’s time we can’t get back – so I honour my commitment to meet with them. This builds trust and shows that I respect the sacrifices they’ve made to invest in me.

On the flip side; I too have transferred my skills and knowledge to others personally and professionally. I’m currently mentoring an interpreter with great potential: she wants to get accredited, learn more entrepreneurship, and build her reputation within the industry.

It takes commitment, patience, honesty and clear goal-setting, all over a period of time.

Here are some lessons I’ve learned about being a mentor:

  1. It validates my knowledge

This is an opportunity to share my knowledge, experience and tips about the interpreting industry, entrepreneurship, or life skills. Paying it forward is important to me because I acknowledge that my success is credited to other people who believed in me and took a chance on me .

I often recommend which courses to study in order to fast-track their career and skill set; I listen as they express their dreams, goals and struggles; and share practical information like links, videos, blogs to research and explore.

2. Sense of purpose and vision

When I realised my ‘Why?’ it changed everything. I became more intentional about who I spent time with and what I focused my attention on – every moment is so precious.

I want my mentees to discover their own passions and go for their dreams. I want to inspire them by being a role model to them; showing them the possibilities of believing in yourself; and that hard work really does pay off. Although it’s not always easy, having a clear vision fuels my passion when I feel like giving up. I have something to go back to as a reminder of why I started in the first place.

3. Develops leadership and communication skills

Mentors are leaders. They are responsible for steering another person’s dream of becoming more in life; they often need to initiate conversations and ask tough questions that may cause discomfort.

Having good communication skills requires self-awareness. When I acknowledge my own thoughts and emotions, it becomes easier to emapthise with someone else who may be struggling with a certain area in their life.

Lastly, as a leader and mentor it’s important to lead by example. My actions are constantly scrutinised by others to ensure I so what I say; this is so important for building trust with mentees and stay accountable.

Conclusion

The relationship between a mentor and mentee has to be genuine – it shouldn’t be forced or else it will eventually become too technical. Honestly, there is a special connection between the two of you; when this crucial first step is done right, the relationship grows into a beautiful friendship based on trust, vulnerability, support and great fulfillment.

Help others get what they need and I promise you – opportunities and blessings will return to you in astounding ways, at the perfect time. Remember to pay it forward and play your part in contributing positively to the community around you.

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Branding Interpreting Personal Development

Why interpreters should think and act like a brand.

BrandSimple is a book I highly recommend for any individual or company that would like to be recognised as a successful brand. Everyone is a brand – the key is to start thinking and acting like one. Allen P. Adamson – the author, explains how the best brands keep it simple, and as a result enjoy huge success.

Earlier this year, I re-visited the main ideas of the book and felt inspired to share my practical insights on what I understand a brand to be; and why every individual or organisation should start thinking and acting like a brand – regardless of the industry and the size of the business. The research that I continuously dig up about branding is quite fascinating; all the authors, bloggers, and experts emphasise the same thing: that a brand is more of an experience rather than something we can touch and see. Its driving force is psychological and decisions are made by consumers unconsciously.

With this premise in mind; I would like to apply some fundamental principles to the interpreting industry, first as an individual followed by a business; and hopefully encourage readers to start establishing their own brands.

What is a brand?

A brand is often misunderstood and reduced to the visual elements that make up the brand, such as the logo, colours, shapes and the clothes worn. In fact, branding specialists Ignyte explain that a brand is a mental process of identifying emotions and actions that shape the perception in a person’s mind; it’s a memorable impression created in a consumer’s mind – both positive and negative.

The way that people perceive you as an individual has a huge impact on your reputation – your body language, the words you use, how you engage with others – people are constantly paying attention and making mental notes. So branding, personal or business branding, keeps evolving because you can decide who you want to be known for; and by strategically positioning yourself, you can change and control how stakeholders engage with your brand – this ultimately influences your reputation.

Thuli Zikalala is my personal brand. Yellow Owl is my SASL interpreting brand.

Here are three tips on WHY branding is so important, taken from Forbes.com

1) It distinguishes you from your competition

Your brand allows consumers and stakeholders to know exactly what to expect from you or your business. This is where you communicate specific elements such as your personality, values, purpose, mission – and by using branding road map tools, you are able to direct and measure overall progress. I’m passionate about leadership and driving positive change in my community – I want to be known and remembered for this.

Expressing your shared values and ideas is a powerful way to set yourself apart from your competitors because there is something familiar that audiences can resonate with; which influences them to choose you over someone else. Yellow Owl drives the message of making digital content refreshing, accessible and inclusive to a wider audience through SASL interpreting and captioning – we want to capture the users’ online experience.

2) It drives new business and increases your brand value

Your reputation always precedes you. There is an uncontrollable ripple effect, almost like a chain reaction when people mention your name or business. Word of mouth is also a form of advertising because people may refer your business based on the positive or negative impression they had when engaging you.

The good thing is that if stakeholders perceive you to be reliable and familiar; then new potential clients may find you because of already existing positive mental associations about you – keeping you one step ahead of your competitors!

3) It builds trust

In a world that is constantly changing; we keep looking for meaning, belonging, identity and purpose wherever we can find it. The best way to retain stakeholders in your company is to deliver on the promises you make; an this is the difference between intent and action – if customers will buy your products and actually buying your product.

But HOW do you build a successful brand?

Brand building experts Freshsparks tells us how:

1) Discover your brand voice

A brand voice includes elements that distinguish your company from competition advantage that’s easy for people to recognise. Examples of this are your brand story, logo, website, colours and taglines, mission and values. It is important to understand your passion and what you want to be remembered for – what positive impact would you like to make in society.

2) Always deliver on your promise

When you as a person or your business says it will do certain things or provide a certain experience; these are found in your messaging, tagline, launch dates. The expectation created is much higher when the promises are explicit and tangible. On the other hand, subtle promises are more achievable because consumers have more time to process branding signals unconsciously.

3) Persevere and be patient

One of the hardest reality checks is that success does not come over night; it takes a lot of work, consistency and practice. As mentioned in the beginning, establishing a successful brand is multi-layered that includes psychology, philosophy, art and science that continues to evolve over time in structure, experience and meaning.

Conclusion

When I started thinking of myself as a personal brand and being intentional in my business to communicate my vision, purpose and mission – my life changed. I became more focused and strategic about how I spend my time and who I surround myself with, like-minded people who share my ideas.

I would encourage readers and interpreters to be aware that everything they say and do is being watched and ultimately communicates a certain message that may be perceived as pleasant or uncomfortable. If you are currently unsure about how people perceive you, or you know for sure that your reputation is not that good: make a honest introspection about what you want to be known for and start moving into that direction through everything you so and say.

Before long, after some effort, you should see be on your way to building and developing your personal and business brand.

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Accreditation Career Interpreting Personal Development

To SATI, or not to SATI?

Stamp of Approval

Would you trust a doctor without a practicing licence to help you when feeling sick? Would you sit down and eat the food prepared by a restaurant that is not licenced? Absolutely not! My health and wellness are way too important both for me and my loved ones, to risk food poisoning or even worse – death. The same principle applies to practicing interpreters: as an individual or organisation; I would be very skeptical approaching an interpreter that has no accreditation for my important meeting, and ultimately risk miscommunication and a tarnished reputation.

Each industry has authority bodies that regulate practices and protect the interests of individuals, communities, and organisations. This is to ensure that work is done at a level that meets or exceeds expectations developed in that specific industry. For example, the HPCSA (Health Professions Council of South Africa) is the statutory body in the medical industry that regulates professional services offered by health workers in South Africa. The CGCSA (Consumer Goods Council of South Africa) advocates for food safety and food waste best practices across the retail industry.

For us interpreters, this institute is SATI.

Who is SATI?

The South African Translators’ Institute (SATI) is a professional association for language practitioners in South Africa; ranging from translators, text editors, interpreters, lexicographers, proofreaders, and copywriters. A system of accreditation was introduced in 1990 aimed at improving the standing of language practitioners; maintain a high level of competence; and adherence to a strict code of ethics. The system began with translation and has since expanded into other related language services.

Failure is not final

In 2017, I failed my first attempt at getting accredited. I gave it my best shot and felt devastated to learn that I failed the exam. Honestly, the exam criteria is difficult – it tests all the skills needed for language practitioners to serve and thrive in a competitive industry. Furthermore; overcoming difficulty ensures a high standard of competence needed for real-life, often stressful working environments.

Fortunately, through determination and support; I re-applied in 2018 and passed the exam. There are currently only 12* SATI accredited SASL interpreters in South Africa; hopefully this number grows over time. (*Number updated accordingly).

3 Benefits of SATI membership

  1. Ensure best practice

Being a member of a recognised association helps individuals comply with ethical requirements of their industry and maintain a high quality service. As an interpreter; being a member of SATI helps me stay accountable to fellow interpreters who look up to me; I am responsible to conduct myself professionally and ethically at all times being fully aware how my decisions may impact generations to come – positively or negatively.

2. Peace of mind regarding competence

The most rewarding feeling I get when working with clients is the re-assurance of getting the job done, very well – I can deliver on the promise to always give my best. Displaying competence is a great way to build credibility, trust, and respect with clients, while giving them a peace of mind to focus on the task at hand.

3. Networking opportunities

SATI hosts regular webinars, workshops and training; and as a member I have access to this information because I am on their database system. I receive weekly emails circulating updates of job opportunities, news of other language practitioners, and connecting with fellow professionals. It’s a great way to network and learn from other related language industries.

Strict Regulations

There are some provisions made by SATI that individuals need to be aware before they become members and get accredited. Honestly, these factors have divided the interpreting industry; making it difficult to commit to membership and accreditation. These include lapsing of accreditation if membership fees are not paid; and the year long turn-around time to re-apply if deemed unsuccessful.

However, in the true spirit of SATI and its determination for maintaining excellence for all language practitioners; SASL interpreters looking to become accredited must show evidence of either a language qualification; 5 years experience supported by professional references; and at least 3 month membership.

Conclusion

Accreditation is a controversial topic in our industry – I’m pro accreditation. There’s a deep sense of pride, honour and integrity knowing that I’m dedicating my life to serve with excellence. My advice is go all the way! Invest in your professional interpreting career through training and skills development, mentorship, or accreditation; do whatever it takes.

Anything worthwhile won’t come easy – it’s hard work, consistency, and determination. When you know your why and understand how it fits into the bigger scheme of things; you will be motivated to keep going even when failure comes.

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Career Interpreting Personal Development Purpose

Am I really cut out to be an interpreter?

Finding your Purpose

It starts here. Finding your why. It was around 2014 when I decided I wanted to interpret full-time. I had several career options to choose from: either build on my psychology foundation; explore the education sector; or stick with interpreting and develop my skills.

You see, my type-A personality leaves little room for spontaneity: I’m results-driven; I’m obsessed with structure; and I’m a high achiever. So when I chose interpreting as a professional career, I had to go all the way! I was ready for whatever sacrifice and hard work it took to build an established career; whether it was studying further, accreditation, or practicing over and over again. Basically, I wanted to be the best! I wanted (and still do) want to be recognised among the top interpreters in the country.

Helpful questions to ask yourself

If you are already an interpreter, or considering a career as one; it is crucial to be honest with yourself. Ask yourself these helpful questions:

  • Do I want to do this everyday without getting bored?
  • Beyond the money, am I passionate about interpreting?
  • Is interpreting easy for me? Do I have a natural ability that can be developed further with intensive practice?
  • 5 -10 years down the line, what will I be remembered for as an interpreter?
  • Can I contribute something new and valuable to the industry?

Pay attention to feedback

Last year I left my full-time job as an interpreter to start my own company Yellow Owl. I can’t say I had all the answers, all I knew was that something just wasn’t right anymore. I was restless; I woke up feeling exhausted; and I had a very strong sense that something was calling and pulling me to be more than what I experienced around me – it was time.

Yes, I felt misunderstood; and I kept to myself. I even started second guessing my thoughts, desires and ambitions of wanting more from life. ‘Was I crazy?’ It felt like the world around me was black and white – I was the only one living in colour. 

3 Tips for finding your purpose

Psychotherapist Amy Morin offers several useful tips on how to find your purpose. I will expand on 3 tips that resonate with me.

1) Explore your interests

What do you enjoy doing and talking about without much effort? A good indicator is what you choose to spend most of your time doing and always make time for, no matter what – is it art, being outdoors, catering, or writing?

I have a natural ability to lead and my personality compliments public speaking. I want to inspire people and drive positive change in my community. So I always find unique ways to incorporate my interests into interpreting.

2) What overlooked social injustice frustrate you?

There’s so much more that can be done through interpreting; just by taking time to really understand one’s role in the whole communication and information sharing process. I love consuming a variety of stimulating content – whether it’s podcasts, videos, music or written text. I often take for granted the freedom I have to simply switch platforms and choose something more engaging anytime.

One of the roles of an interpreter is to remove barriers to information access – information in all forms. Unfortunately, Deaf people don’t always have the luxury to enjoy, choose or experience audio content at it best. This is a huge responsibility; but it also makes interpreting fun and exciting – identifying a gap in the market and solving the problem creatively and collectively! This injustice inspires my business model of making digital content more inclusive and accessible through SASL interpreting. Become the solution to persistent, ignored problems in society.

3) Choose your company carefully

Positive people will inspire and challenge you to also start being optimistic, it’s contagious! We all encounter problems in life; however, only you are responsible for how you respond to difficult people and circumstances that come your way.

I often spend time alone working or processing some thoughts; but I am very careful who I allow into my personal space and the energy people bring. This conscious tough decision helps me stay focused and level-minded.

Conclusion

Ultimately, we all have different paths to walk – I’m fortunate to have discovered my purpose early on in life; coupled with my interests and personality traits. This makes it possible for me to excel as a professional interpreter who collaborates with like-minded people; use my voice to solve overlooked, persistent problems creatively – and still have fun while doing it!

When I stopped comparing myself to other fellow interpreters and people in general; I began discovering my own unique skills that set me apart from everybody – built on a strong purpose-driven foundation.