Terminology Management

Term from Translation industry explained for recruiters

Terminology Management is a systematic way of handling specialized words and phrases that companies use consistently across all their materials. Think of it as creating and maintaining a company-specific dictionary. This helps translators ensure that specific terms like product names, technical terms, or brand-specific language are translated the same way every time, no matter who's doing the translation. It's like having a rulebook that makes sure "smartphone" isn't sometimes translated as "mobile phone" or "cell phone" in other languages - keeping everything consistent and professional.

Examples in Resumes

Created and maintained Terminology Management databases for major automotive clients

Implemented Terminology Management systems that reduced translation inconsistencies by 40%

Led Terminology Management initiatives across 15 language pairs for medical device documentation

Developed company-wide Term Management guidelines for consistent translations

Typical job title: "Terminology Managers"

Also try searching for:

Terminologist Translation Project Manager Localization Manager Language Lead Senior Translator Translation Coordinator Terminology Specialist

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you implement a terminology management strategy for a company expanding into 5 new markets?

Expected Answer: Look for answers that discuss creating a core glossary, establishing review processes with local teams, setting up approval workflows, and planning for regular updates and maintenance of terms.

Q: How do you handle conflicts between different departments' preferred terminology?

Expected Answer: Strong answers should mention stakeholder meetings, documenting reasoning for terms, creating clear decision-making processes, and maintaining good communication between teams.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What steps do you take to maintain terminology consistency across different projects?

Expected Answer: Should discuss using terminology databases, regular quality checks, creating style guides, and training translators on term usage.

Q: How do you handle urgent terminology updates across multiple languages?

Expected Answer: Should explain communication processes with translation teams, update procedures, and quality control measures to ensure changes are implemented correctly.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is a terminology database and why is it important?

Expected Answer: Should explain that it's a collection of approved terms and their translations that helps maintain consistency across all translated materials.

Q: How do you research the correct terminology for a new project?

Expected Answer: Should mention consulting client glossaries, industry resources, subject matter experts, and existing translations.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic terminology research
  • Understanding of terminology tools
  • Ability to maintain existing term bases
  • Basic quality checking

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Creating terminology guidelines
  • Managing terminology databases
  • Training others on terminology use
  • Coordinating with translation teams

Senior (5+ years)

  • Developing terminology strategies
  • Leading terminology projects
  • Managing multi-language term bases
  • Creating company-wide policies

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No experience with terminology management tools
  • Poor attention to detail in maintaining consistent terms
  • Lack of experience with multiple languages or cultures
  • No understanding of translation workflows