“My curiosity for culture has allowed me to travel around the world to discover and learn about new things.”

Bonjour, my name is Elisa.  I am translator on Workshift for English, Japanese, German, French, and Chinese. Originally, I am Canadian-Chinese, and I have lived in Hong Kong, Vancouver, Nagoya, Berlin, and now I’m in Paris.  I was a former student of Japanese and German studies at the Free University of Berlin and at the University of British Columbia. 

My curiosity for culture has allowed me to travel around the world to discover and learn about new things.  That’s why I chose to become a freelancer: I love the freedom!  I have been a part of Workshift since September 2016.  Life is an exciting adventure, and I love to take it everywhere with me.  That’s why I am completely in love with Workshift, I can take my work wherever and whenever I want!

- So how did your adventure with Workshift start?

Let me take you on a journey of a day in my life!  Bon voyage!

Before it all happened…

I was determined to be a freelancer, as I don’t enjoy the experience being trapped in an office for the whole day.  I need my daily dosage of fresh air and sunshine!  It all happened one day when I was browsing through Facebook, and I noticed a small advertisement for Workshift.  Interesting enough, I clicked on it and I decided to join!  The reason why I continued with Workshift is because the staff was extremely helpful and professional.  For example, as I live overseas, I experienced some issues with a bank transfer.  The staff emailed me directly, stating that there was an error, and he guided me step-by-step until we found a solution to the problem.  

- How do you start your typical day? 

Well, as a freelancer, there’s no worry to arrive at work early.  I can start my day whenever I want.  So I usually head over to my favourite place in Paris.  A nice, warm cup of coffee is the key to get motivated for the day.  My go-to café in Paris is Café de Flore.  It’s also such an inspirational place to think and work, as it has an amazing history.  Opened in the 1880s, it hosted many inspirational people such as Georges Bataille, Pablo Picasso, the Chinese Premier Zhou En Lai.  Don’t you agree that this is the perfect place to get inspired?  After grabbing a cup of coffee, I just usually work 2-3 hours in the cafe, or until I get the feeling that I need to stretch my legs.  Then, it’s sightseeing time! 

- Was it easy getting your first project on Workshift?

It’s not difficult to receive projects from Workshift.  I have approximately a project a week, sometimes they’re bigger, and sometimes they’re smaller.  Don’t feel discouraged when you do not receive the project that you’ve applied for.  It might take a few tries, especially if you’re new!  To get projects regularly, I suggest that you keep an updated file, so that other companies have more reference and information about you.

- What are your plans for the Future?

I am currently preparing myself for interpreting school, as I have entrance exams in March.  Workshift is one of the main ways for me to build my portfolio and client base.  Not to mention, it’s also a great way to get your foot in the door to see what the industry is like.

- Any advice for new Workshift freelancers?

Never be shy of trying new things!  My last project was for a company who sold maternity products, and to be honest, I was completely clueless in this field!  But as you work, you’ll get to learn and discover new things, and I think this is the gem of Workshift!  They offer a large range of job offers, making it engaging and educational.  I wish everyone a pleasant journey in freelancing with Workshift.  Merci beaucoup et à bientôt!

- Any final thoughts?

Workshift is a great tool for adventurous people who are always on the go.  Make work adjust to your schedule, not you adjusting to the work schedule!