INTRINSIC AND EXTRINSIC SOURCES OF TRANSLATOR SATISFACTION: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY

Abstract

This paper discusses the main results from an online questionnaire on translator satisfaction—a theoretical construct that conceptualizes leading sources of task and job satisfaction in the language industry. The proposed construct distinguishes between intrinsic and extrinsic sources of satisfaction using Herzberg’s two-factor framework and enumerates the constituents of translator satisfaction. Statistical analysis allows this study to quantify these constituents and their correlations. Preliminary results reveal that crucial sources of task satisfaction include task pride, ability to perform a variety of tasks, and successful project completion. Major sources of job satisfaction include professional skills of team members, a continuous relationship with clients, and clients’ understanding of the translation process. Low income and requests for discounts are found to be some of the sources of dissatisfaction. The findings from this study can be used to investigate new approaches for retention and human resource management.