Style Guide
A Style Guide is a document that sets rules for writing and translating content to ensure everything sounds consistent across all materials. Think of it as a rulebook that tells translators and writers exactly how to handle things like company terminology, formatting, tone of voice, and language preferences. For example, it might specify whether to use British or American English, how to write dates and numbers, or which terms should never be translated. Companies use style guides to maintain their brand voice when working with different translators or when translating into multiple languages.
Examples in Resumes
Created and maintained Style Guide for company's translation projects across 12 languages
Updated client's Style Guides to include new brand terminology and formatting requirements
Led team training sessions on implementing Style Guide requirements in translation workflow
Typical job title: "Language Specialists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Language Specialists
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Online Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you develop a style guide for a client who has never had one before?
Expected Answer: Should explain the process of gathering information about brand voice, identifying key terminology, consulting with stakeholders, and creating clear, easy-to-follow guidelines. Should mention importance of examples and regular updates.
Q: How do you ensure style guide compliance across a large team of translators?
Expected Answer: Should discuss training methods, quality checking processes, feedback systems, and tools or workflows used to maintain consistency. Should mention handling updates and communications with team.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you handle conflicts between a client's style guide and standard language conventions?
Expected Answer: Should discuss communication with clients, providing explanations for recommended changes, and finding balance between client preferences and language best practices.
Q: What elements do you consider essential in a style guide?
Expected Answer: Should mention tone of voice, terminology, formatting rules, regional preferences, and brand-specific requirements. Should explain why each element matters for consistency.
Junior Level Questions
Q: How do you apply a style guide when translating content?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of following formatting rules, checking terminology lists, and maintaining consistent tone across translations.
Q: What do you do if you find an unclear instruction in a style guide?
Expected Answer: Should explain process of seeking clarification from supervisors or project managers, documenting issues, and suggesting improvements.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Following existing style guides
- Basic terminology management
- Understanding formatting requirements
- Quality checking against style guides
Mid (2-5 years)
- Updating and maintaining style guides
- Training others on style guide use
- Managing terminology databases
- Resolving style-related issues
Senior (5+ years)
- Creating comprehensive style guides
- Managing style guide implementation
- developing style guide strategies
- Leading terminology management projects
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to explain importance of consistency in translations
- No experience with terminology management
- Poor attention to detail in following guidelines
- Lack of knowledge about cultural adaptation needs
Related Terms
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Addressing Mental Health in the Workplace: A Guide for Forward-Thinking Leaders
Rewiring Your Interview Templates for Better Candidate Experience
Sourcing Strategies That Actually Work: A Modern Recruiter's Guide
