ProZ.com frequently asked questions

1 - Profiles: general

Video tutorial: "Getting the most out of your ProZ.com profile"

1.1 - What types of profiles are available at ProZ.com?

When registering at ProZ.com you can create a profile of any of the following account types:

1. Freelance translator and/or interpreter
   
2. Translation agency/company employee or owner
   
3. Freelancer and outsourcer
   
4. Translation student
   
5. End customer
   
6. Vendor/advertiser to the translation industry
   
7. Other

1.1 - How can I set my account type?

You can set your account type by clicking on Profile updater in your main profile page, choosing among the profile types available and clicking on Save and update profile at the bottom of the page.

1.2 - Which account type should I choose?

1. If you are primarily an individual freelance translator or interpreter, you should choose the Freelance translator and/or interpreter account type.
   
2. If you represent a translation agency/company, or a group of individuals providing language services, please select the Translation agency/company employee or owner account type.
   
3. If you are an individual who provides freelance language services, but also outsources jobs, you can select the Freelancer and outsourcer account type.
   
4. If you are currently studying language, translation or interpretation, you should choose the Translation student account type.
   
5. If you are an end customer, please select the End customer account type.
   
6. If you represent a vendor or advertiser, please select the Vendor / advertiser to the translation industry account type.
   
7. If you do not fit into one of the categories mentioned above, please select the account type Other.
   

1.3 - At the time I registered I selected a certain account type, but now I think a different account type will reflect my current situation more accurately. Can I change my account type?

Yes, you can edit your account type to suit your preferences from the ProZ.com Account section of your Profile updater. Make sure to click on Save and update profile once you are done.

1.4 - I am listed as an agency but I also work as a freelancer, should I have two profiles?

No, you don't need to have two profiles. Many agencies in the site are listed as both agencies and freelancers. To be recognized as both, all you need to do is go to your Profile updater and select the option Freelancer and outsourcer for Account type.

1.2 - How do I begin completing my new profile?

Go to your Profile updater to update your profile, including contact information, financial information, and more. Make sure to click on Save and update profile once you are done.

2.1 - How can I edit/update the information in my profile?

There are two ways of editing the information in your profile:

1. You can click on the edit icon usually shown below or next to the profile feature. This will directly take you to the section you would like to update.
   
2. You can go to your Profile updater and click on the section(s) you would like to update. Make sure to click on Save and update profile once you are done.

2.2 - Why are certain fields classified as required or encouraged?

The classification of a profile field as required or encouraged (as opposed to simply available) corresponds to the possible contribution of that field to the goal of helping to ensure that a profile owner gets the most out of ProZ.com.

Required fields are those that are important enough that the failure to supply data for the field (or alternatively, to explicitly decline to enter data) results in the profile being regarded as incomplete. Encouraged fields are those that may help a profile owner to get more out of ProZ.com, though are not necessarily as critical as the required fields.

Note that in classifying a given field as required or encouraged, ProZ.com is not endorsing the use of that field either for qualifying translators or for any other purpose. It is one of the guiding principles of the site that users are given the tools to help them work in the ways they choose to do so. In other words, a profile field tends to exist when there are enough people who want to use it (either to share information or to search by it.) Therefore, the classification of a field as required or encouraged tends to correspond to the relative frequency with which that field is used.

1.3 - What is my profile ID/number?

Your profile ID/number is the last number at the end of your profile URL. To see it go to My profile and check the last number shown in the URL of your profile box at the top left of your profile. To create a profile simply register for free at www.proz.com/register

3.1 - What link should I provide my customers to direct them to my ProZ.com profile?

You can find this information in your own profile, above your picture and username.

3.2 - Can I link to my ProZ.com profile from my personal website? Can I use the logo when I do so?

Yes. You can find a comprehensive description of how to link to your profile in this page.

Make sure you add /profile/{your profile number} after a href="http://www.proz.com".

1.4 - How do I enter my first and last names in my profile?

To enter your real name in your profile, visit the ProZ.com account section of your Profile updater and enter your first and last names in the Contact first name and Contact last name write-in fields respectively. Finally, click on Save and update profile at the bottom of the page to save your data.

You can set visibility permissions for your name under the Define your site name section, within the Identity box.

4.1 - How do I hide or show my real name in my profile?

You can chose to show or hide your real name in your profile at any time. Note that name changes may take up to one hour to become effective.

If the name visible in your profile is your username and you want to show your real name instead, just go to the ProZ.com account section of your Profile updater and enter your real name in the Identity field. Once you have entered your real name, select the Show first and last name, as entered in profile option in the Define your site name section (within the same box). Make sure that the Show to everyone visibility option is selected and click on Save and update profile at the bottom of the page to save the changes.

If what is showing is your real name and you want to show your username instead, just select the Show username, as used in login option in the Define your site name section of the Identity box and then click on Save and update profile at the bottom of the page.

4.2 - Can I show my real name to outsourcers and my username to other users?

Yes, all you have to do is enter your real name in your profile and choose the option to show it only to outsourcers in your Profile updater. Please note that this setting is based on account type, so your real name will not be shown to outsourcers who are not logged in, or those who have not properly classified their profiles.

4.3 - I do not want my real name to show in search engines. How can I change this?

Profiles, similar to the forums and KudoZ, are public. This means that they can be indexed by search engines and displayed as part of search results. If you have chosen to show your real name as your site name (profile name) it is then possible that your real name is then shown as part of search engine results. If this is the case, and you want your name to stop showing in search engines results, start by changing your site name (profile name) at ProZ.com. To do so, go to your Profile updater and change your site name settings by selecting Show username, as used in login. Remember to click on Save and update profile at the bottom of the page. Note that this change may take a few minutes to become visible in your profile page.

Once the change has been made effective in your ProZ.com profile and your username (login name) shows instead of your real name, you will still need to request the removal of the cache version of your profile page (or any other ProZ.com page in which your real name shows) from search engines or else wait until search engines update their indexes (this may take from 4 days up to 2 months). In the case of Google, you may request the removal of any cache page containing your real name in the Google search console.

If you need help with any of the steps described above, please submit a support request.

4.4 - I changed my site name but search engines still show the old name. Why?

When you chose to display a given site name (real name or username), it may be cached by some search engines. Thus, if you decide to change this name later, or to change visibility permissions for your site name, it will take a certain period of time for search engines to update their cache and stop showing the old profile or site name.

If you do not want search engines to show your old site name, you need to request the search engines in question to update their caches. You can request the removal of outdated content from Google in their search console.

1.5 - Can I control the visibility of the information in my profile?

Yes, you can control what profile visitors see in your profile in two ways, depending on the type of information you would like to show or hide:

1. By setting visibility permissions for the information you enter via your Profile updater:
   
   
2. By toggling visibility of pre-formatted features by clicking on the visibility toggle next to them:

5.1 - How do I change visibility settings for the Blue Board entries made by this user section of my profile?

You can chose to hide your clients names or location by selecting the None visibility option for these areas from the Feedback section of your Profile updater.

You can also hide the Blue Board entries made by this user section of your profile by selecting No in the Show Blue Board LWA section of the Blue Board feedback box or by clicking on the visibility toggle next to this section in your profile main page.

1.6 - How can I see my profile as visitors would see it?

To view your profile as any visitor would view it, simply click on Force visitor view at the top of your profile page. To go back, just click on Return to owner view.

1.7 - How can I change the title displayed in my profile?

In order to add/edit the title displayed in your profile, go to the Settings tab and select the Search engine settings section. In this way you can edit the title displayed in your profile or leave this field blank to use a ProZ.com search engine optimized title. Please note that search engine indexes only show up to 60 characters.

1.8 - Can I add a tagline to my profile?

Yes. You can add a short phrase that sums up your most important attribute as a service provider or outsourcer (or tagline) to show below your site name in your profile and in the directory. To enter a tagline, click on the small edit icon next to Edit your tagline, below your profile name. This will take you to the Marketing and promotion section of your Profile updater. Type in your tagline and then click on Save and update profile at the bottom of the page to save the changes.

You can also edit your tagline from your profile page, by clicking on the pencil-shaped button to the right of it.

1.9 - Can I add a user message to my profile?

Yes. To add a user message to your profile, simply click on the small note pad next to User message in your profile main page, enter your message and click on Save. Note that user messages no longer support HTML tags.

1.10 - What kinds of content (text, HTML, etc.) can I put in my profile page?

Only plain text and basic HTML can be used in profile pages. JavaScript, HTML tables, and other advanced techniques will usually not work.

1.11 - Can I use HTML in my personal information (first name, last name, username, etc.)?

No, only plain text may be used in your personal information. HTML characters such as < or > will be converted to plain text. This also applies to your keywords and tagline.

The basic rule of thumb is that if it appears only on your profile page, HTML is allowed. If it appears anywhere else on the site, HTML is not allowed.

1.12 - Can I control the language in which visitors see my profile?

Yes. Go to the Settings tab in your profile, and click on Search engine settings. Under the default language, choose the language in which you would like visitors to view your profile and check the box to force that view. Any visitor who comes from another site and is not logged in to ProZ.com will automatically see your profile in the language you chose.

1.13 - Can I accept payments from my profile?

Yes. You can accept payments directly from your profile using ProZ*Pay. You can also use other methods, as detailed in the related FAQs.

13.1 - How can I accept PayPal payments through my profile page?

First, you need to set up a Paypal account. Go to PayPal and follow their sign-up steps.

It will take from a few days to a week for your account to go through. Once it has, you simply go to your Profile updater, click on the Financial section, and then enter the email address you used to set up the PayPal account in the PayPal email space provided under Payment methods. Make sure to click on Save and update profile once you are done.

Note that you can set visibility/access permissions for your PayPal email address in your profile from your Profile updater:

1. If you select 'how to no one as visibility permission, profile visitors will not have access to your PayPal email address and will only see a PayPal accepted legend in the Pay section at the top of your profile.
   
2. However, if Show to everyone is selected, profile visitors will be able to see a link to PayPal webpage in which your PayPal email address will be shown.
   
3. Finally, if the Show to outsourcers only visibility option is selected, only visitors with company profiles will be able to link to PayPal webpage from the PayPal link at the top of your profile (and see your PayPal email address) while visitors with freelancer profiles will see the legend that is shown when selecting Show to no one visibility option.

13.2 - How can I accept Skrill payments through my profile page?

Go to your Profile updater, click on the Financial section, and then enter the email address you used to set up your Skrill account in the Skrill email space provided under Payment methods. Make sure to click on Save and update profile once you are done.

13.3 - Can I accept other payment methods through my profile?

Please contact the ProZ*Pay team or submit a support request to set up your bank account or other pay-out methods and receive payments directly through ProZ*Pay.

Alternatively, you may declare payment methods you accept from clients, including credit cards and wire transfers, and you may add Skrill or PayPal links to your profile to allow clients to more easily send payment via these methods.

1.14 - Can I receive files through my profile?

Yes. You can receive files sent to you through your profile page via the Send file option at the top of the addressee's profile page.



You will find more information about the Send file function here.

1.15 - How do I report my translation education in my profile?

To report your translation education, go to the Professional history section of your Profile updater and select the highest translation-related degree you have earned from the drop-down menu and then specify the issuing school. Finally, click on Save and update profile to save this new information.

To report language-pair specific credentials, please read this FAQ.

1.16 - How do I report years of experience in my profile?

To report your experience in translation, go to the Professional history section of your Profile updater, specify your years of experience and the year in which you started working as a professional translator and then click on Save and update profile to save this information.

1.17 - I need help with completing my profile. Who should I contact?

Please watch this video tutorial and try to apply it to your profile.

If you still need help with completing your profile, submit a support request. You can also ask ProZ.com staff to take a look at your already-complete profile and provide you with suggestions on how to improve it and make it more appealing to potential clients.

1.18 - How do I delete my profile?

You can delete your profile by going to the Settings tab from your profile page. Once you've arrived to your settings tab, you will need to scroll down and click on the link that reads Close account which then will enable to remove your profile entirely. Once you remove your profile, email notifications will automatically stop.



If you ever want to reactivate your profile, please submit a support request and provide ProZ.com staff with your login email.

2 - Profile picture

2.1 - How do I upload a profile photo or image?

The easiest way to upload or update your profile photo is by clicking directly on the photo box on your profile. This will take you to the section of your Profile updater designed for that purpose. You will be able to take a photo with your webcam or upload a file up to 1MB from your computer. If your picture is not square, you'll be offered the option to crop it.

2.2 - Is there a limit to the kind of profile image I may use?

The image(s) used in a profile should not be political, misleading or offensive in nature, and should in general respect the site's scope. Keep in mind that the image you use in your profile represents you professionally.

3 - Contact information

3.1 - How can I start completing my contact information?

To start completing your contact information, go to the Contact section of your Profile updater and enter information for the following fields:

• Email addresses
  
• Complete address (including country, state, city and postal code)
  
• Phone and fax numbers
  
• Web page URL
  
• Time zone
  

3.2 - I have edited my contact info but the quick profile does not show it.

ProZ.com utilizes more than one web server. When you uploaded new information in your Profile updater, it can take between several minutes and a half hour for it to be copied to all the web servers. During this time, you may notice a blank or outdated data where you entered the information. Please give it some time before submitting a support request.

3.3 - Can I make my email address visible in the Contact section of my profile?

No. This is designed as a means of security, to protect your address from spammers and scammers, and is why the profile email sending function (the little envelope at the top of your profile) is used. If you choose to publicly post your email address, you may do so for example in the About me section or CV of your profile. Please be aware of the risks of doing so.

3.4 - How do I add Skype to my profile page?

You can add Skype to your profile by going to your Profile updater and editing your Contact information.



To show your Skype status publicly, go to Skype > Tools > Options > Privacy in your Skype, and select the option to Allow my status to be shown on the web.

3.5 - How can I set my location in the map?

You can enter your location on the map by visiting this page and following the steps described. You can also edit your location by clicking on the edit icon below the map image in your profile.

3.6 - How can hide or show the map in my profile?

You can show or hide the map in your profile by clicking on the visibility toggle at the bottom of the map to the left of your profile page.

3.7 - Can I control the online status shown in my profile?

Yes. If you don't want your online status to show (via the P icon at the top of your profile page), you can choose to hide it from this page. You can also add, delete or hide other instant messaging icons in your profile. Remember that showing your online status can be a useful way of letting people you work with know you are available via profile mail or ProZ.com Instant Messaging.

3.8 - ProZ.com instant messenger online status is not showing in my profile. Why?

If the small P icon that shows your online status and serves as an instant messenger tool is not showing in your profile, check your instant messenger settings to make sure you have chosen to show your online status (if so, the link option next to ProZ.com Online Status should read Hide).

If the link option next to ProZ.com Online Status reads Show, click on this option and then re-fresh your profile page to confirm the icon shows (note that this change may take a few minutes). If the icon still does not show after changing your settings, please submit a support request so that staff can look into the issue further.

3.9 - How do I add a Twitter feed to my profile page?

You can add a Twitter feed to your profile in your Profile updater, under the Contact tab.

For more information on how to take advantage of a Twitter feed on your profile, please visit this forum thread.

4 - Languages

4.1 - How do I report a new language pair in my profile?

To report a new language pair in your profile go to the Languages section of your Profile updater. First, make sure that you have declared all of the languages you speak, selecting them from the drop-down menu at the top of the page.



Once all of your languages have been reported, scroll down to Language pairs and select one or more language pairs by clicking the Add language pairs... button. Select one or more services you offer in the new language pair being added and click on Save language pair(s) to finish.

4.2 - How do I change the order of language pairs reported in my profile?

To change the order of language pairs reported in your profile, go to the Languages section of your Profile updater, then click and drag each pair to the position you would like them to appear in your profile and click on Save and update profile at the bottom of the page to save the changes applied.

4.3 - How do I enter languages of interest?

To enter a language of interest in your profile, just enter a new language pair from the Languages section of your Profile updater as you would normally do (following the steps described here). Before saving the pair, check I don't work in this pair; don't show it in my profile. Select this last option and finally click on Save language pair to save the changes applied.

If you want to turn a working language pair into a pair of interest, click on Edit next to the language pair you want to change. Check I don't work in this pair; don't show it in my profile and click on Save language pair to save the changes applied.

4.4 - How do I report my native language(s)?

You can report your native language or languages (with a maximum of two) from the Languages section of your Profile updater. In the Native language field, select your native language(s) from the menu available to the left and click on Add. Then, simply click on Save and update profile at the bottom of the page to save your changes.

At the moment there is not an option to declare a third native language, nor immediate plans to add it. If it changes in the future, it will be announced in the ProZ.com forums.

If you made a mistake when reporting your native languages and need to edit this information, please submit a support request.

4.5 - Can I report my language variants?

5.1 - How can I report my language variants?

To report your language variants, head to the Languages tab of your Profile updater. When you hover over each language, you'll see a pencil-shaped button that will allow you to add variants. Reporting your variants is optional and will not affect your profile completeness.

5.2 - My language variant is not listed.

If your language variant is not listed, please submit a support request detailing the variant that you want to add.

If your language does not have any variants listed or the list is incomplete, please submit a support request with the variants that you know of and, if possible, online resources to corroborate the nature of the variant(s) and make sure that the information is as complete as possible.

5.3 - Can job posters filter by this information?

No, at this time it is not possible to use language variant filters in the job posting form. However, it is now possible to filter directory searches by language variant, from ProZ Find™.

5.4 - I am proficient in multiple variants of my language, which should I add?

You should add those variants that you are most comfortable with. In many cases these will be the ones that you have worked with the longest, but may in fact be those that you currently use on a daily basis. You can indicate your level of familiarity from a drop down menu when adding or editing your language variants.



In the case of your native language(s), only those variants that you report a high familiarity with will be displayed on the corresponding section of your profile. If you report a high familiarity with several variants, only the first two will be shown.

4.6 - ProZ.com Native Language Verification drive

6.1 - I need to declare a second native language, or I've made a mistake in entering my native language(s).

Please submit a support request for assistance, indicating your reason to reset your native languages.

6.2 - What is the ProZ.com Native Speaker credential?

The Native Speaker credential is a mark that signifies that a ProZ.com member is a native speaker of a given language. Mousing over the mark or clicking on it will show additional information.

6.3 - What do the different colored icons mean?

A golden ProZ.com Native Speaker icon is used to represent native languages that have been verified by the community-driven Native Language Verification system or, in the case of members with a single declared language, by a ProZ.com staff member (note that native languages cannot be changed at will once declared).

A silver ProZ.com Native Speaker icon is used to represent native languages that have been reported as such by the user, but have not been verified by the community-driven Native Language Verification system.

6.4 - I'm a native speaker of a single language. How do I get it verified?

ProZ.com members with one reported native language are asked to simply declare that language. If you have already reported your language before upgrading to Professional membership, submit a support request indicating that you wish to reset your native language for verification.

To report your native language(s), head to the Languages tab of your Profile updater, select your native language from the drop-down menu What is your native language? and click on Add. Once the language is marked as Native on the list above, click on Save and update profile at the bottom of the page to save your selection.

Non-members and all ProZ.com users with more than one reported native language can request verification through the Native Language Verification system.

6.5 - How do I get the credential in more than one language?

As you may be able to see when you enter the Languages tab on your Profile updater, you have the option to Request verification to the right.

You can also enter the community-driven Native Language Verification system directly.

The process is very easy, and it only requires you to make a short recording of yourself talking informally about any topic of your choice. Your application will be reviewed by at least 3 native-speaking peers, and the speech will be deemed native if several other ProZ.com Native Speakers find it to be native.

ProZ.com members who are Plus subscribers, as well as reviewers who have participated in the program by verifying the native languages of three or more peers are eligible to apply.

6.6 - How many native languages can be reported?

At the time being, only two native languages can be reported. There are no immediate plans to add a third language.

6.7 - What definition of native speaker is used?

Rather than imposing a definition of native, the NLV system leaves the definition up to participants. An applicant's speech will be deemed native if several other ProZ.com native speakers find it to be native, according to their own definitions. When an application for Native Language Verification is rejected, the applicant is able to see the reviewer's comments, explaining why they did or did not find the speech to sound native.

6.8 - Does the ProZ.com Native Speaker Verification tell whether or not someone is a good translator?

Absolutely not. Native language is only one factor that a client may consider when screening a translator or interpreter. It is usually not the most important factor.

6.9 - How much does it cost to apply for ProZ.com Native Speaker Verification?

There is no fee for submitting an application to the ProZ.com Native Speaker Verification system. This verification is community-driven, and any user who reviews three or more applications can apply. Plus subscribers don't need to review applications before applying themselves.

6.10 - My Native Language Verification application is pending. How long will it take for it to be reviewed?

The Native Language Verification system is community-driven. This means that the reviews depend on the community's will and availability to listen to submissions and offer their feedback. For particularly small language communities, this may take a relatively long time.

5 - Services

5.1 - How can I report the services I offer?

To report the services you offer, simply go the Services & offerings section of your Profile updater and select the services you offer from the list to the left and click on Add. Once you have added your services to the list to the right, click on Save and update profile at the bottom of the page to save your services. As with all sections of your profile, you can drag-and-drop your reported services to list them in order of relevance.



You will then be able to report the services for each specific language pair, from the Languages section of your Profile updater. You can find more detailed instructions in this FAQ.

5.2 - How do I add a monolingual service?

Some users may choose to add monolingual services in their profiles, including checking/editing, voiceover, education, transcription, etc. To do this, simply go to the Languages section of your Profile updater, click on Add new pair and choose the same language in both the Source language and Target language drop-down menus.

Then, check all the appropriate boxes to indicate the services you perform for this monolingual language pair, and click on the Add pair button.

If you check your profile then, you will see under your profile picture that a Language (monolingual) has been added.

5.3 - Why is it important to report services offered?

Your profile is your public face at ProZ.com. It serves as your business card and directory listing, and is the first impression of you that colleagues and potential clients will have when they find you at ProZ.com. In addition to finding your profile via ProZ.com, there is also a good chance that potential clients will find your ProZ.com profile when seeking language professionals using search engines such as Google or Yahoo! —provided that you optimize your profile accordingly. So, by reporting in your profile the services you offer, you increase the chances of showing as part of search results when potential clients search by keyword (eg. translation, interpreting, training, etc.).

Also, reporting services in your profile allows you to be notified of recent job postings in the language pairs and the fields you have reported in your profile. For information on the criteria taken into account for job notifications, see this FAQ. To set your job notification preferences, visit your Jobs dashboard.

Finally, remember that to be able to quote on jobs and show up in the directory, you must have reported in your profile the service specified by the outsourcer in the job posting or in the directory search.

5.4 - Why am I not listed as an interpreter/proofreader/copywriter?

Please check that you have added all your services to the Services & offerings section of your Profile updater. To improve your directory position, place your most important service(s) at the top of this list. Make sure to click on Save and update profile once you are done.



Be sure to declare your language pair-specific services too. Declaring these services is key to connecting with clients. Go to your Languages tab to edit this. When you add a new language pair using the Add language pairs... button, make sure to check every service you offer in that particular language pair.



If you have already reported a language pair, click on the pencil-shaped button to the right to edit it.

5.5 - How can I report software / CAT tools I use in my profile?

You can report any software or CAT tool you use in the Services & offerings section of your Profile updater. Just select a software from the list available to the left in the Software / CAT tools section and click on Add. You can select multiple items by using the keys CTRL and shift. Once you have added all the software tools you want to report to the list on the right, just click on Save and update profile at the bottom of the page. If the CAT tool or software you want to list is not provided, use the Add CAT tool / software not listed field to report such tools.

5.6 - I am SDL Trados Certified. How do I show it on my profile?

If you are SDL TRADOS Certified, you can show it in your profile under the Services tab. To do so, you must first add SDL Trados to your list of supported software in the Services tab, following the instructions in this FAQ. When the page refreshes, you will see an option to show your SDL Trados Certification on your profile. By adding the link to the certificate in your SDL account, you'll give clients the option to click on it and corroborate your certification.



To learn more about SDL Trados Certification visit this FAQ.

6 - Fields of expertise

6.1 - How can I add and edit my fields of expertise in my profile?

To report fields in your profile, go to the Services & offerings section of your Profile updater. To report General fields simply select a field from the list to the left and click on Sometimes to have the chosen field(s) added to the list of general fields that you work in. Once you have checked all the general fields you want to report, just click on Save. To edit your fields, click on the pencil-shaped button at the bottom right corner, and remove them by marking Never.




To report specialty, working and interest fields, select each field from the list available in the Detailed fields section. You can select multiple fields at a time. To remove them, hover over each field and click the x. To improve your directory position, place your most important field(s) at the top, by dragging-and-dropping.

6.2 - Can I change the order of fields reported in my profile?

Yes, you can change the order of specialty, working and interest fields you have reported in your profile from the Services & offerings section of your Profile updater. Just click on each field and drag it to the position you would like it to occupy in the list of fields. Remember to click on Save order at the bottom of the list after moving each field.

6.3 - How are fields of expertise classified at ProZ.com?

Several category structures are used throughout ProZ.com for the purpose of classifying job postings, term questions, personal areas of expertise, glossaries, and more. There are two main structures: the ProZ.com general categories (9 of them), and the ProZ.com detailed categories (over 100).

6.4 - What are the detailed categories of expertise?

The detailed categories are a subject classification system developed based on the keywords used in a free entry box to describe the fields of KudoZ questions asked.

This more detailed category structure has been created with the following aims:

• Providing a means of expressing specific areas of expertise in profiles, jobs and directory searches.
  
• Providing finer KudoZ categorization, enabling more targeted emailing and, eventually, user download of field-specific glossaries.
  

6.5 - How were the fields used determined?

Both the general and detailed sets of disciplines were created based upon analysis of site usage patterns. The general categories are the top general categories in which jobs were posted during a period of review. The detailed categories are the top detailed categories in which KudoZ terms were posted during a period of review.

If you wish to propose a new specialty field, please submit a support request. Note that it is unlikely that a category would be added based upon a single request. But requests for additional categories, coupled with ongoing review of site usage patterns, will determine future changes to the category structure.

6.6 - The fields don't seem to make any sense.

The taxonomy of fields used at ProZ.com reflects market characteristics. No attempt has been made to make it stand up to rigorous academic analysis.

6.7 - Why is my specialty not available?

If you can't find your specialty, please submit a support request indicating which one you would liked added and then we will add it to our task list for development. Note that it is unlikely that a category would be added based upon a single request. But requests for additional categories, coupled with ongoing review of site usage patterns, will determine future changes to the category structure.

6.8 - Why are some categories shown twice —like cars and automotive?

Some specialty fields or categories are repeated through the drop-down menus, because a significant number of people entered those fields with multiple names during the time that ProZ.com used to collect and review that information. In order to prevent separation of similar data, these identical or related categories are tied together in the database. So it does not matter if you choose automotive or cars; both will be treated and shown in exactly the same way thereafter.

Note that any time you see a category with an equal sign =, that is a double entry —or pseudo-field— representing another, official one. For example, in the case of the category officially called Travel & Tourism, there is an additional pseudo-category called Hotels = Tourism that simply points to Travel & Tourism. So if you enter Travel & Tourism in your areas of specialization, your name will come up in directory searches for Hotels = Tourism, too.

6.9 - How many general, specialty, and working fields can I enter in my profile from the Fields of expertise page?

You are allowed to enter up to 10 specialties, 30 working fields, and up to 8 of the 9 general fields available. Only 5 or less from the general field will appear on your profile page. However all your specialty fields will appear on your profile page, and your working fields will appear collapsed, available under a More button.

6.10 - What is the difference between Specialty fields and Working fields?

Specialty fields are also working fields, but they are fields in which you specialize or do your best work. If your top area is, say, medicine, you should make sure it is listed as your top specialty, and you should consider accompanying this with sample translations related to medicine in your profile. Outsourcers can look for language professionals by specialty fields, so this can be important in meeting potential clients.

6.11 - Does the order of my specialty fields affect my directory positioning?

The ten fields that you have reported first will be considered your specialty fields. The following thirty fields will be considered your working fields, and the remaining fields will be considered interest fields. In directory searches for specialists in a field, those who have reported that field in their top-ten will have preferential positioning over those who marked it as working. Those who placed it between the 11th and 40th spots will in turn be given a priority placement over the users who reported it as interest.

6.12 - Why can't I enter more than 10 specialty fields (and 30 working fields)?

It is possible to select 10 specialty fields and 30 working fields, which means you may appear in the directory for a total of 40 fields. While we recognize that there are translators who are able to work in more fields, users are asked to select their best 10 (and after that, their next-best 30). ProZ.com is based on the idea of specialized translation and this system is designed around the idea that one can only be a specialist in so many fields at once.

6.13 - Why aren't my detailed fields of expertise displayed on my profile page?

Only the specialization fields that you select as specialty and working will appear on your profile page —that is, the first 40 fields you selected.

7 - Credentials

7.1 - What is a credential?

At ProZ.com, a credential is a degree, certification or diploma issued by an educational or certifying institution upon completion of a translation or language course, or upon passing a test or examination process.

Translation and interpreting credentials are those that attest to your translation or interpreting ability in a specific language combination. This includes:

• higher education degrees in translation or interpreting (university and college credentials such as Bachelor and Master's degrees),
  
• evaluations and certifications from professional associations like the American Translators Association, the Chartered Institute of Linguists, etc.
  
• governmental authorizations such as those provided to legal translators and medical interpreters who have passed the requirements to operate in their specific jurisdiction.

7.2 - Why is it important to report my credentials?

It is possible for members to report having earned such credentials via their profile pages. Correspondingly, job posters are able to restrict job posting to those members who have reported credentials. It's also possible to restrict job postings to those with verified credentials. Also, directory searches can be limited to those with reported or verified credentials. You can report your credentials here and here you can check how to get them verified.

Note that there is no uniform standard for translator credentials. Furthermore, credentials are not available in many language pairs, and it may be difficult for those living in certain areas to obtain opportunities to earn credentials. It is recommended that the option to restrict job postings or directory searches by reported credentials be used selectively, and only for major language pairs.

7.3 - How do I report my credentials?

To report a credential, first go to your Profile updater and click on Add credentials next to the corresponding language pair. A window will pop up allowing you to report any professional credentials, certifications or accreditations you have earned from recognized authorities.



If you cannot find the institution that granted your credentials, you may use the write-in field or submit a support request indicating the full name, abbreviation, and official website of the organization, and ProZ.com staff will add it to the list.

When you add credentials for a language pair, please note that you are adding them for the particular direction of the reported pair (for example, Spanish into English). If your accreditation covers the opposite direction too, you will need to add it again for the opposite language pair (English into Spanish).

After you have done this with all your credentials, they will appear in your profile, on the Credentials section.

7.4 - Do I have to submit a copy of my credentials for verification?

The credential filter used in jobs is based only on whether you have declared your credentials. Verifying your credentials benefits your profile and you, and is an added assurance to potential clients that you are a qualified professional.

Please note, however, that if you declare a credential you may be asked by ProZ.com staff to verify the existence of that credential in your name. If you are unable to verify a credential you have declared, it may be removed from your profile.

7.5 - How do I get a credential verified?

ProZ.com verifies language-related credentials reported by ProZ.com members. At this time the following credentials can be verified:

• Accreditations issued by authorities such as: AAIT, AAIC, CTA, etc.
  
• Language-related academic credentials or degrees issued by accredited educational institutions
  

7.6 - Does ProZ.com verify memberships in organizations or associations?

As they are in general temporary, and subject to change, ProZ.com is unable to verify memberships in organizations or associations. These should be reported under Memberships instead, by going to the Memberships tab of your Profile settings.

Please note, however, that if you declare your membership in a certain organization or association, you may be asked by ProZ.com staff to verify that you are or have been a member. If you are unable to verify a membership you have declared, it may be removed from your profile.

7.7 - Does ProZ.com verify reference letters from colleagues or employers?

No. Only accreditations issued by authorities and language-related academic credentials or degrees issued by accredited educational institutions can be verified.

7.8 - I took a language course or exam. Can I declare it as a credential?

Yes, you can declare your language courses and exams, but these will be monolingual credentials. This means that they prove your proficiency in a single language, not your ability to translate between a specific combination of languages.

For example, if you took an English course, you can declare it under English (monolingual) in your profile. You may need to add the monolingual entry to your list of languages and refresh the page, first.

8 - Continuing professional development (CPD) tracker

You can report and track all of your continuing professional development (CPD) activity through your ProZ.com account. You can keep it as a register just for yourself, or display it as another way to differentiate yourself to potential clients and collaborators. Paying ProZ.com members also have the ability to add certificates of completion where relevant, and request verification of CPD items from ProZ.com staff.

To get started, go to your ProZ.com profile. Between the sections for CV/Resumé and Professional practices, you will find a link to your CPD display (hidden by default).



You can toggle visibility there, to make this visible from your profile. To add CPD items and see your CPD display, just click on the link in your profile. You can also right click and copy the link if you wish to share a direct link to your CPD display with others, link to it from your website, etc. From your display page, you will see the option to add new entries. If you take a ProZ.com training course from now on, those will be added automatically upon completion, and if you are a paying member, they will be added together with your certificate of completion, and marked as verified.

8.1 - What kinds of activities can be reported as continuing professional development (CPD)?

At the moment, there are nine different categories of CPD available:

8.2 - Can I report paid projects I've worked on, or training classes I've given?

In general, no. ProZ.com provides ways of reporting and using commercial work you have done to attract potential clients (for example, via the "What I am working on" and project history features), and if you provide paid training to others you can also leverage that through ProZ.com already. For the most part, to be considered CPD, the activity or work should be non-commercial.

8.3 - Can I report courses/credentials which are not purely linguistic in nature?

Yes. Some activities which may not be purely related to translation or interpreting can still form part of your CPD. For example, if you specialize in technical translations, courses taken, events attended, or credentials achieved in that field are proof of your continuing professional development in the field in which you provide your linguistic services, and they can be reported and may be eligible for verification as well.

8.4 - Can I report language learning courses?

For the moment, no. Since language learning courses generally represent efforts which are pre-commercial work in that language, they are not included for now. From a potential client standpoint, whether you are learning Japanese or not is of little interest, as opposed to showing you are already proficient enough to work commercially in Japanese and are improving your skills in, say, interpreting in Japanese, or in the Engineering field in that language.

8.5 - Can I report CPD activities I have done through other organizations or programs which offer or track CPD?

Yes. The purpose of the ProZ.com CPD system is to allow you to track all of your continuing professional development in one place, and to use that as one more way of differentiating yourself to potential clients if you so choose (or however else you see fit).

8.6 - What kinds of mentorships can be reported?

Any mentorship performed under a program which provides some kind of formalized structure to a mentor pairing can be reported. For verification purposes, you may need to submit proof of the pairing, duration of the mentorship, etc.

If you have performed a mentorship outside of a formal mentorship program, you can apply to register that mentorship with ProZ.com by contacting the support team. You and your mentee will be asked to fill out a report which documents the mentorship so that ProZ.com staff can verify the pairing. If you are actively mentoring, you may be asked to register the pairing using the tools available in the Mentoring Pool.

8.7 - What about memberships in organizations?

Memberships can already be reported in your profile in the Memberships section, and are not part of your CPD. Some activities in which you engage as a member of different organizations, or in order to maintain membership there, may be considered as CPD, however.

8.8 - If I add a certificate of completion to a CPD entry, who can see that certificate?

Your certificates of completion will be visible to you and to staff. They are used to verify entries, and for the moment are not displayed publicly (if that becomes an option later on, you will be able to choose if you display them).

8.9 - How will reporting and verifying CPD benefit me?

If you do continuing professional development on at least an informal basis, it is nice to be able to keep track of it and have it in mind when lining up your professional objectives.

In terms of using CPD to increase your client contact, think of it as one more way of differentiating yourself. Potential clients will be able to see that you are actively working to improve your skills and services when they visit your profile.

8.10 - How does the ProZ.com CPD point system work?

When you add CPD activity, it is eligible for ProZ.com CPD points. Here is how it works:

• When a CPD activity you have added has been verified, the points allotted for that activity will also be shown next to the entry.
  
• If a CPD entry has not been verified, you will only see the potential points which would be allotted upon verification (these potential points are not displayed publicly).
  
• CPD points will tally up on a yearly basis and be displayed as "ProZ.com CPD points" for each year and each category, as well as appearing in the general overview of your CPD at the top of your display page.
  

• Online events: 1 point per hour (limit of 5 points per event)
  
• In-person events: 2 points per hour (limit of 10 points per event)
  
• Courses: 1 point per hour per course completed (limit of 3 points per course)
  
• Pro bono work: 1 point per 3,000 words or 1 point per hour if the work is interpreting
  
• Articles: 2 points for every article published
  
• Presentations/papers: 3 points per (unique) presentation given or per paper published
  
• Exams/certifications: 5 points
  
• Books: 5 points per book published
  
• Mentorships: 6 points for every mentorship completed
  

8.11 - What are CPD points used for?

At the moment, no plans have been made for the application of the CPD point system. Since entry verification (and therefore points) is limited to paying members, only a relatively small population of the ProZ.com community has access to it. For now, the plan is to let the CPD system work on its own and make improvements where needed. You can use the points earned from verified entries in the same way as you can use your CPD dashboard as a whole: as one more indicator to potential clients and collaborators that you are performing certain activities outside of your commercial work to improve and keep yourself up to date as a professional.

8.12 - I don't want to participate in the CPD feature at ProZ.com.

No problem! Some people don't do CPD, either because they don't have the time, or because they don't have the desire to. By default, the link to your ProZ.com CPD display is hidden in your profile, and you can show or hide it at will (you can also choose to enter CPD activities but hide them so that they are only visible to you). The CPD feature is there for those who are doing CPD activity and wish to make use of it.

9 - Verified Identity Program

9.1 - What is the Verified Identity Program (VID)?

ProZ.com staff member, moderators and other volunteers have undertaken a program to confirm the identity of interested site users.

A checkmark appearing in a user's profile signifies that the identity of the person may have been verified. Clicking on the checkmark will provide more information. Access to this information may prove useful in assessing risk when forming new online relationships.

The purpose of confirming members' IDs is to increase mutual trust across the site, in particular among users who don't know each other personally.

9.2 - How can I have my profile identity verified?

The Identity Verification application page provides three means of getting your identity verified.

1) One way to have your identity verified is to have met —in person— a ProZ.com staff member, moderator or member who has been given the right to verify identities. (A list of those with the power to verify identities is included in the application form. Only in-person meetings will be considered.)

2) The other way to get your identity verified is to make a credit card purchase using a card that carries the same name that is entered in your profile page. If you purchase site membership or training at the website, your identity will be verified automatically if all the conditions are met (see 9.7 below).

3) If you would like to have your identity verified without purchasing membership or training, you may make a one-time non-refundable credit card payment of $5 (US). Please be sure that the credit card is in your name, and your name is in your profile under your "Real name" (whether or not your choose to make your real name visible to others).

There is currently no way to have your identity verified by any other means, including faxing, etc.

Note: At the moment only direct credit card and PayPal payments are accepted for ID verification purposes.

9.3 - What is the timeline for the VID program?

It will take several months for the identities of a significant percentage of the ProZ.com community to be verified. Until that time, no special advantages will be given to users with verified identities.

Once a significant number of profiles have been verified, checkmarks will appear not only on profile pages, but also at points throughout the site.

9.4 - Why is my identity not verified anymore?

If you change the given name, middle name, or last name in your profile after your identity has already been verified, your identity verification will be revoked. To get re-verified, you will need to submit a support request.

9.5 - How do I get VIDed at a powwow?

In order to have your ID verified at a powwow by a member who has the authority to verify identities, you must show that person picture identification when you meet him or her in person.

As with other VID methods, the name on your picture ID must match the real name you have entered in your profile. But unlike the other VID methods performed by site staff, you must also elect to show your real name on the site. Otherwise the member won't be able to see your name and compare it with the name shown on your ID. After you are VIDed, you may choose to hide your real name again if you wish.

You can edit the real name in your profile by selecting My ProZ.com >My Settings >Personal Data from the menu.

You can choose to hide or show your real name in your profile by selecting My ProZ.com >My Settings >Basic Profile from the menu.

Once you have shown your real name on the site, met a member with VIDing authority in person and shown him or her your picture identification, you can submit a request to that person to verify your identity on the site. To do so, go to the VID application page.

On the VID application, select the met in person option, and select the name of the person you met from the drop down list of authorized VIDers. (If the person's name is not in the list, he doesn't have such authority.) Then enter the date and location of your meeting, and submit the form. The person will receive an email request to verify your identity.

9.6 - How can I get authorized to verify other users' identities?

If your own identity has already been verified, you may apply for the authority to VID other users by submitting a support request.

9.7 - I have paid with credit card but I am not ID verified yet.

When a request for ID verification is submitted using the payment option, the name in your profile under "Real name" should match exactly the one that you have on your credit card or Paypal account.

ProZ.com uses this information to certify that the name you have entered in your profile is the same that you have entered in your credit card or Paypal account.

If for any reason the information in your credit card or Paypal account does not match exactly the one in your profile, your identity will not be verified.

You will understand that ID verification is a very sensitive issue, as ProZ.com is testifying to the whole community that you are actually the person you say you are, which is why we need credit card confirmation about your identity.

Please note that at the moment only direct credit card and Paypal payments are accepted for ID verification purposes.

9.8 - I received a message stating that my identity could not be verified. Why?

If you have a "Translation company" account type, your identity will not be verified. Since the purpose of confirming members' IDs is to increase mutual trust across the site, in particular among users who don't know each other personally, only "Freelancer", "Freelancer and outsourcer" and "Student" accounts will be considered for ID verification.

Also, if you applied for verification using the payment method and the name on the account you are using to pay does not match the name in your profile (or you have not entered any name in your profile), then your identity will not be verified.

10 - Rates

10.1 - How do I enter my rates?

You can report default rates in the Financial section of your Profile updater.

Also, you can report language-specific rates by clicking on clicking on Edit rates next to each language pair in the Languages section of your Profile updater. A window will pop-up allowing you to enter custom rates for each language pair.

10.2 - Why is this important for me?

Specifying your rate range makes it easier for clients to consider working with you. If you establish your rate range, you will not be bothered with notifications for jobs below your minimums. You will also be able to compare your rates with aggregated data from other pros working in your language pairs

Also, by specifying the range in which you are willing to work, you supply valuable information that will be used in educating clients. For example, if a client wants to post a job at 0.001 cents per word (a very low rate), he or she will be presented with data showing the percentage of pros who are not willing to work at that rate. This helps to head off unreasonable offers.

10.3 - How do I enter rates for each language pair reported in my profile?

You can enter language-specific rates by visiting your Profile updater and clicking on "Edit rates" next to each language pair in the Languages section. A window will pop-up allowing you to enter custom rates for each language pair.

10.4 - Can I report any surcharges, discounts or minimum charges aside from rates?

Yes. You can report rate conditions through the Rate conditions page.

10.5 - How can I show / hide rates in my profile?

You can set visibility permissions for your rates in the Financial section of your Profile updater.

10.6 - What are the minimum and target rates?

You will be prompted to enter minimum and target rates.

The minimum values are the absolute minimum rates that you will accept for a translation assignment. You should receive no notifications for jobs posted in the corresponding field rates below your minimum value.

The target rate is what you would ask for when presented with a translation assignment matching these criteria:

* Is in a subject field you are familiar with
* Requires no extra costs to you (travel expenses, software, dictionaries, etc.)

Your target charge is what you might list on your CV or personal website for potential clients to see.

10.7 - Where can I include any sucharges, discounts, or minimum charges?

You can list any adjustments you tend to make for special conditions when invoicing here.

10.8 - Why should I enter rates?

Benefits of specifying a range of rates:
(1) Specifying a rate range makes it easier for clients to consider working with you
(2) You will not be bothered with notifications of jobs below your minimums
(3) You will be able to compare your rates with aggregated data from other pros in your pairs

Also, by specifying the range in which you are willing to work, you supply valuable information that will be used in educating clients. For example, if a client wants to post a job at 0.001 cents/word (a very low rate), he or she will be presented with data showing the percentage of pros who are not willing to work at that rate. This helps to head off unreasonable offers.

10.9 - I am just getting started as a freelancer. What rate should I charge?

The rate you should charge depends on your desired income, your productivity, the amount of vacation you take and other factors. Use this rates calculator to do the basic calculation.

10.10 - Is entering rates mandatory?

You do not have to enter rates information. Also, even if you do choose to enter rates, you do not have to make them visible to others.

If you are not comfortable entering a specific range of rates, consider adding a note to your profile page that says "Rates are for estimation purposes only, and are subject to change upon review of the job."

10.11 - What rates are people asking? Can I view aggregated data?

You can view the rates entered the ProZ.com community on this page. Limitations:

• Available to Site members only
• Available to 'Freelancer' and 'Freelancer and company' account types only
• You must enter your rates
• You can view the rates for up to 5 of your language pairs

10.12 - How is my maximum rate calculated?

Your maximum rate is calculated automatically based on the minimum rate you entered in your profile. It is 2.5 times the minimum rate. Note that as with all rates you enter, a lower or higher rate can always be negotiated after you are chosen to complete an assignment.

10.13 - I've entered my rates but I'm still receiving some jobs offering a rate under my minimum. Why is this?

Not all jobs conform to the format of [X] per [word|hour|total] in [currency]. Some jobs specify lines instead of words, ongoing or in-house jobs often have different pricing requirements, and so on. To accomodate these different situations, outsourcers are given the choice of entering pricing for the job in the standard format, or using a free-form text box to enter the pricing. Jobs that use the free-form format cannot be checked for rates, so you will receive notification for them, even if they are below your set minimum.

Note that in the future, outsourcers will have more incentive to enter pricing in the standard format, and whether standard pricing is entered or not will influence who receives the notification.

10.14 - Why doesn't ProZ.com set a minimum rate for translation?

More information on this here

11 - WWA (Willingness to Work Again) or translator feedback

11.1 - What is translator feedback (sometimes called WWA)?

Translator feedback is a ProZ.com feature that provides translators, interpreters and other service providers with a means of requesting, collecting and displaying in their profiles willingness to work again (WWA) feedback from clients and colleagues.

Site users can request feedback from outsourcers and colleagues with whom they have worked. Colleagues and outsourcers may answer requests by providing feedback. They can also take the initiative in providing public feedback to service providers with whom they have worked.

The translator feedback page provides a dedicated interface to those willing to request or provide translator feedback.

11.2 - What does a translator feedback entry consist of?

An entry consists of three parts:

• The outsourcers' expression of its willingness to work again (with a yes response to the question Would you outsource work to this service provider again?)
  
• A brief line of text accompanying the yes (optional)
  
• The service provider's one-line response to the outsourcer (optional)
  

11.3 - What is translator feedback good for?

• Profile owners have the option to show this feedback in the upper right corner of their profiles to appeal to potential clients who arrive at profile pages.
  
• A translator or interpreter who opts to show yes WWA entries from previous satisfied clients, may be better positioned to turn potential new clients into actual ones, to justify above-average rates, to mitigate the need for performing test translations, etc.
  
• Having WWA entries is one of the search criteria that can be used by potential clients to find freelancers in the ProZ.com directory.
  
• This feedback is also useful for outsourcers to manage risk when locating new service providers.
  

11.4 - What are the conditions under which translator feedback can be (requested from / made by) an outsourcer?

The outsourcer must have commissioned a formal translation assignment to the service provider on at least one prior occasion. Feedback entries are not permitted on the basis of a test translation or any other preliminary interactions.

The term "outsourcer" is used here broadly to refer to anyone who passes along a formal translation assignment. This includes not only language companies and end clients, but also translators and interpreters who send work to colleagues when they are busy.

An outsourcer may provide only one WWA entry to each service provider who has worked for them. However, different project managers from a same company can provide feedback on a service provider who has worked on their projects.

11.5 - Can I request feedback from different project managers I have worked with in the same company?

Yes.

11.6 - How can I help identify the maker of a feedback entry?

When possible, a translator feedback entry includes a link to a ProZ.com profile or Blue Board record that represents the person who gave the feedback. This information can be helpful to others when determining how much to rely on a particular feedback entry.

If the person was not logged in when giving feedback, you can help to identify them by finding a Blue Board record or ProZ.com profile with which they are associated, and then submitting that information in a support request. (Staff will attempt to corroborate it based on email address and other information.)

If you have worked for the outsourcer who gave a feedback entry, you can also help by making an entry in that outsourcer's Blue Board record.
When you identify a matching Blue Board record, submit that information in a support request. ProZ.com staff will attempt to verify the association, either by matching the email address of the person who gave the feedback, or by contacting the Blue Board record's primary contact for verification.

11.7 - Is a ProZ.com account required to provide translator feedback?

No. Clients can give translator feedback without logging in, if a translator has sent them a request for feedback.

This is intended to make it easier for clients and outsourcers to give feedback, even if they don't have an existing account at ProZ.com.

Feedback from those who are not logged in will be considered "unidentified" if the email address is not associated with a ProZ.com profile or qualifying Blue Board record. It's possible to identify the person who made the feedback later, though. (See How can I help identify the maker of a feedback entry? for details.)

11.8 - Is yes the only possible response to the willingness to work again question asked to outsourcers?

When the function was first created, it was decided to ask site users to make entries only for those translators and interpreters with whom they would work again. In other words, it was not possible to make no and maybe entries in response to the question, Would you work again with this person?

In recent years, the option to leave star ratings, from one to five stars, has been added. This option is only available to signed-in outsourcers with no active administrative actions or open non-payment issues.

By default, WWA entries are visible only to the person on whose behalf they are entered. There will never be an obligation to make WWA entries or ratings public.

11.9 - Sounds good — I would like to show willingness to work again entries from my clients in my profile. How can I do that?

To request a WWA feedback from an outsourcer with whom you have worked, go to My WWA from the My ProZ.com tab in the homepage and select Request WWA entries. If the ousourcer has an account at ProZ.com and a Blue Board, type the name of the outsourcer's profile in the Search field.This search will draw users from Blue Board pages and profiles. Then, select the proper entry in the list displayed and click on the Add to list button to add this outsourcer to the list of outsourcers you will send an invitation to provide WWA feedback for you.

Once you have added the outsourcer to the list, click on the Proceed to step 2 of 3 (customize emails) button to go to the page in which you will be able to customize the message you will send to the outsourcers you've specified. Note that you will find a template text used to request WWA entries. You may use this text and/or customize it to better suit your preferences. You can also add a name and an alternative (additional) email address.

Finally, click on the Proceed to step 3 of 3 (preview and send emails) button to preview and send your request or edit your message.

For outsourcers who do not have profiles or Blue Board pages at ProZ.com, just enter their name and email address and then click on Proceed to step 2 of 3 (customize emails) button to go to the page in which you will be able to customize the message you will send to this outsourcer. As with ProZ.com outsourcers, you will find a template text used to request WWA entries. To send your request, just click on the Proceed to step 3 of 3 (preview and send emails) button to preview and send your request or edit your message.

11.10 - How can I send a translator feedback requests in languages other than English?

You can completely customize the message that is sent when requesting translator feedback. However, a small box will appear at the bottom of the message, with special links for giving feedback. The content of this box is only available in English.

11.11 - How can I reply to feedback entries I received?

You can reply to WWA feedback entries you received from the My WWA entries/requests page.

11.12 - How can I provide a positive willingness to work again entry to a site user that worked for me?

To provide a translator feedback for a service provider with whom you have worked, go to the service provider's ProZ.com profile and click Give translator feedback in the upper right.

11.13 - What are my options regarding the visibility of my WWA entries?

WWA information is displayed in the upper right corner of your profile. There are three options for the visibility of this information:

a) Entries visible only to the profile owner

This is how the feature will appear in a new profile which has not received WWA entries:



After receiving WWA entries, you will see this:



A visitor will only see a blank field where the WWA feature should be.

b) Entries visible to visitor

If you choose to click on the Show to visitors button, you will see:



And now visitors to your profile will be able to see the entries:



Clicking on the number of entries will open a box where detailed information about the entries will be displayed.

c) WWA hidden from owner

If you have chosen to hide your WWA entries from visitors to your profile, you can also make the feature invisible for you. To do this, just click on the Hide from me button. All that will be visible then is a button which you can use to make the WWA feature visible again if you choose so in the future.

A visitor to your profile will see no trace of WWA.

11.14 - Can I display client feedback and testimonials elsewhere in my profile?

Yes. The Project history provides the option to gather and display client and collaborator feedback on specific projects. Some translators also choose to select and reflect some client feedback in other sections of their profile, such as the About me section. Note that displayed feedback not collected through a system like the WWA system may be subject to requests for verification by site staff, in the interest of transparency and of protecting the integrity of the feedback system.

11.15 - Is this feature also intended to benefit outsourcers?

Yes. Outsourcers who choose to consider translator feedback data may find that they are able to qualify translators and interpreters more efficiently.

11.16 - How can translator feedback be beneficial for both service providers (ie. translators and interpreters) and outsourcers at the same time?

The translator/outsourcer relationship is one of partners, not adversaries. If the translator feedback system leads to faster engagement cycles, fewer test translations, etc., this will be good for outsourcers and service providers alike.

The Blue Board is an example of another tool of benefit to both service providers and outsourcers. Outsourcers who are listed and have received positive entries report a higher degree of trust and shortened project launch cycles among those service providers who reference the Blue Board.

11.17 - What about confidentiality? I can not / would rather not disclose my client's names.

Currently, each entry includes the client's name (there is no way to receive anonymous entries). Therefore, you should refrain from inviting entries from clients with whom you have an understanding or presumption of confidentiality.

11.18 - I don't have confidentiality agreements per se, but I don't want others to know who I work for. How can I prevent my clients from being disclosed?

You can hide translator feedback entries from being displayed in your profile. To do so, go to your profile page and click Hide from visitors in the translator feedback box in the upper right of the page.

You can opt in and out of displaying translator feedback entries at will. What you can control is whether or not all entries received will show. It is not possible to opt out of showing feedback entries individually.

11.19 - What about members' desire to be able to prevent others from making unsolicited translator feedback entries?

It is possible to withdraw from the feedback network. This entails, out of fairness, that just as these users do not accept unsolicited entries, they also will refrain from making them for others (whether via the translator feedback system, or the Blue Board.) In a sense, they waive their right to make entries for others, in exchange for taking away their right to make entries for them.

This option does not prevent the reception of LWA feedback in the Blue Board, nor cause any existing feedback entry to be deleted. Withdrawing users will still be able to make entries for others who invite them to do so.

11.20 - If I withdraw from translator feedback potential clients may think I don't want feedback displayed because I am a bad translator. Would it be ok to write that in my profile explaining that I opted not to use this feature to protect my clients or something

Of course, you are welcome to add that sort of a comment.

11.21 - Is there staff and/or moderator oversight?

Translator feedback entries are vetted by site staff members before they become visible, not with the goal of ensuring their accuracy, but merely to confirm that the feature is being used for the intended purposes. Staff members are also be available, via the support system, to review and investigate questionable entries and possible abuse upon request.

Moderators are not involved in administering the translator feedback system.

11.22 - Is the translator feedback feature limited to members?

Initially, all aspects of the new feedback system will be available to all site users, regardless of membership status. In the future it is possible that limits will be imposed to its use by non-members, such as a cap on the number of entries that can be made or displayed by them.

11.23 - Outsourcer says no invitation was received. What can I do?

If an outsourcer to whom you sent a translator feedback request says no request was received, check that the email address used is correct. Also, you can suggest the outsourcer to check the spam folder of their email inbox and send a reminder message as described here.

If no message is finally received, you can suggest the outsourcer to provide feedback directly by clicking Give translator feedback in your profile.

11.24 - The translator feedback (WWA) item is marked incomplete in my profile updater even though I have received an entry. Why?

Only feedback from clients is counted when determining whether your profile is complete. If all of your feedback is marked as being from colleagues, the feedback section of your profile will still indicate that it's incomplete. If one of your feedback entries is incorrectly marked as being from a colleague when actually it's from a client, please submit a support request to have your translator feedback entry corrected.

11.25 - How do I get the green completion mark for feedback/WWA in my profile?

When you have at least one feedback entry from a client, your profile updater will show the green check mark for that field. (Note that feedback from colleagues is not counted when determining whether to show the green completion mark.)

11.26 - What does the message received line mean next to the clients' names that I requested WWAs from?

The message received line that appears in your WWA request entry form next to the client that you requested a WWA entry from is just an email confirmation message to inform you that the email you sent them was received in their inbox.

Now, you will just need to wait for the outsourcer to respond.

11.27 - I accidentally submitted feedback for the wrong service provider. How I can delete this entry?

Click edit under your feedback entry, and then click clear.

11.28 - I received translator feedback from an outsourcer I have never worked for. What should I do?

If you are sure that the entry you received has been posted by an outsourcer you never worked for, please submit a support request and specify the entry.

Remember that some outsourcers' profile names are different from their Blue Board titles or their company names. Make sure the outsourcer is not using a site name different from their company name and that you have not worked for this company in the past.

11.29 - How can I edit a feedback comment/reply?

In special cases, staff will edit comments accompanying translator feedback entries or replies to entries at the poster's request.

To have a feedback comment or a reply edited by site staff, please submit a support request and specify the entry in which the comment / reply should be edited and the desired new text for the comment / reply.

11.30 - The outsourcer I am looking for does not show as part of search results. What can I do?

If you are looking for a specific outsourcer and they do not show as part of search results, make sure you are looking for the outsourcer's profile name (the name shown in their profile).

Note that Blue Board titles are not always used as profile names by outsourcers. In cases in which the Blue Board title and the outsourcer's profile name are different, conducting a search for the Blue Board title will not produce any results.

Also, make sure the outsourcer you are looking for has a profile at ProZ.com. Some outsourcers with Blue Board records may have removed their profiles or may have not created any profile for their company. Remember that outsourcers must have an account with ProZ.com to submit WWA feedback.

11.31 - Where can I see translator feedback statistics?

To view feedback statistics, go to the translator feedback stats page.

11.32 - Can a user receive translator feedback from family members or close associates?

Translator feedback should not provided to family members or close associates, in order to maintain a certain level of transparency in the feedback system.

See also general site rule 2 for more on why this policy may be enforced.

11.33 - What are WWA ratings?

WWA ratings enable outsourcers to provide more detailed feedback to their service providers.

11.34 - Will WWA ratings replace WWA feedback?

No. WWA feedback is separate from WWA ratings. Profile owners will continue to have the same rights to show/hide/solicit WWA feedback they have always had.

11.35 - What are service provider options regarding the visibility of their WWA ratings?

There are two options for visibility of service provider WWA ratings:
- Display all WWA ratings publicly to all profiles visitors
- Keep all WWA ratings private

If service providers choose not to display WWA ratings, profile owners will still see their WWA ratings but visitors to their profile will see no trace of WWA ratings.

If service providers choose to show WWA ratings, all visitors to their profile will see all of their WWA ratings.

11.36 - What about my WWA feedback entries?

Your WWA feedback and settings will not change. You will keep all of your WWA feedback and you may choose to show or hide all WWA feedback, independent of showing or hiding your WWA ratings.

11.37 - What are outsourcers options regarding the visibility of their WWA ratings?

There are two options for visibility of individual outsourcer WWA ratings:
- Keep a single WWA rating on a service provider private and visible only to that outsourcers’ team members.
- Share a single service provider WWA rating with that service provider.

If an outsourcer chooses to share a WWA rating with a service provider, and that profile owner sets their WWA ratings to private, only the outsourcer and service provider will be able to see that WWA rating.

If an outsourcer chooses to share a WWA rating with a service provider, and the profile owner sets their WWA ratings to public, all profile visitors will be able to see that WWA rating and the outsourcer’s name.

11.38 - Are WWA ratings required to participate in any ProZ.com services or features?

Yes. In order to join ProZ.com pools, service providers will be required to show their WWA ratings.

11.39 - What are the conditions under which WWA ratings can be made by outsourcers?

Only logged in outsourcers (LSP/Agencies, end clients or account type (outsourcer & freelancer) can leave WWA ratings.

Outsourcers will be able to leave a single WWA rating per verifiable project.

Only those outsourcers in good standing (i.e. no outstanding non-payment reports, active administrative actions) will be able to create WWA ratings. All postings must follow all ProZ.com site rules and policies.

11.40 - What is a verifiable project?

A verifiable project is one where the outsourcer, if requested, can provide written documentation that a project or order has been accepted by the service provider.

11.41 - Can I reply to WWA ratings I received?

Yes. Service providers will be able to reply/comment to WWA ratings they receive.

11.42 - Will WWA ratings have more detailed category ratings (i.e. communication skills, on time delivery, etc.)?

Yes, it is planned that detailed category ratings will be released in the future.

11.43 - Will an outsourcer be able to edit their WWA ratings?

Outsourcers that keep their WWA ratings private will be able to edit them at any time.
Outsourcers that choose to share their WWA ratings with service providers will not be able to edit their WWA rating for 30 days after they share that WWA rating with the servicer provider.

11.44 - Will WWA ratings have an effect on my directory position or rank?

Not at this time.

11.45 - How can I request or solicit WWA Ratings?

Service providers can request WWA ratings in the same manner in which service providers can request WWA from their clients.

11.46 - What are the rules for submitting WWA ratings?

Certain conditions must be met before WWA ratings can be made:

• In order for WWA ratings to be shared with service providers they must be entered when a verifiable work order has been assigned and there have been no payment issues.
  
• It is not possible to edit an entry for 30 days after it has been shared with the service provider.
  
• A service provider is allowed to reply. (Note that it is not possible to edit an entry for 30 days after a reply has been received.)
  
• Self-entries are not permitted.
  
• Defamation is not permitted. A WWA rating entry may not be used to defame any individual or business. Entries, comments accompanying entries, and responses to entries, must focus strictly on WWA ratings and adhere to all ProZ.com site rules.
  
• All communication must adhere to all ProZ.com site rules.
  
• Attempting to influence another's use of WWA ratings is prohibited. Exerting pressure on someone to change a WWA rating entry or reply, or to make a new entry or reply of a specific nature, is forbidden. (Inviting outsourcers to make WWA rating entries or replies is acceptable, as long as there is no attempt to influence the content of those postings.)
  
• WWA ratings may not be used to coerce. Using a WWA rating, or threatening to use a WWA rating, in such a way as to pressure a service provider or outsourcer into taking some action, is strictly prohibited.
  

11.47 - Will banned outsources or those with open non-payment reports be permitted to leave WWA ratings?

No.

11.48 - Will outsourcers be able to leave multiple WWA ratings?

Outsourcers may leave one WWA rating per verifiable project.

11.49 - What if I disagree with a WWA Rating I have received?

If a service provider feels a WWA rating violates the WWA ratings rules, they can open a support request. ProZ.com reserves the right to review WWA ratings on a case by case basis, and to remove any WWA rating or comment which may not conform to ProZ.com site rules & policies.

11.50 - I got a request for WWA feedback from a service provider via email, how do I provide it?

At the end of the message sent by the service provider who worked with you, you will find a box with different options:

• The first option is to Rate this service provider (for logged-in users).
  
• The second option is to indicate your willingness to work again with this service provider by answering the following questions: Have you worked with this service provider? and Would you be willing to work again with this service provider? and a blank text box to leave a comment.
  
• The third option is, if you do not wish to give this service provider feedback, to click on the Decline button in the top right corner of the second field. You will not receive further notifications regarding this request.

12 - Portfolio: my sample translations

12.1 - How do I add sample translations to my Portfolio?

Samples are really important, not just for profile completeness, but in order to show the quality of your work.

To add sample translations to your profile, go to Professional history in your Profile Updater.

You can add video samples of your audiovisual and interpreting work by clicking on Add a new video sample.

In the case of text samples, you should aim for samples that are at least 150 words long; and ideally no longer than 500 words. Translation samples can be extracted from your previous commercial and non-commercial work, as well as fair-use extracts of published works and translations of works in the public domain.

First complete every required field (Language pair and Title). Then, copy the sample of your translation from you device and paste it in the Source text and Target text boxes. These boxes allow HTML code.

To save your samples, click on Add translation. Notice that if you do not complete the required fields, your samples will not be saved. Make sure to check "I confirm I own the source text or have explicit permission to use it, and that the target text is my own translation of that source text." for the button to be enabled.

12.2 - How can I change the order of sample translations in my portfolio?

The order of sample translations reported in profiles can be changed by selecting each sample in the list of samples in the Professional history section of the Profile updater and dragging them to the desired position, saving and updating changes after each movement by clicking on Save and update profile at the bottom of the page.

12.3 - Can I toggle the visibility of the samples in my portfolio?

No. You can either choose to enter samples which will be publicly visible to visitors to your profile or choose not to enter these samples. For the latter option you can tick the box next to I choose not to enter any sample translations at this time in the Portfolio/Sample Translations in the Professional history section of your Profile updater.

Another option would be to enter samples and removing the sensitive information you would not like to be disclosed. Make sure you are respecting confidentiality agreements when entering these samples.

12.4 - How can I respect confidentiality agreements with clients while showing sample translations in my portfolio?

If a translation you have done is subject to a confidentiality agreement, avoid adding this translation to your portfolio and try adding a sample text taken from the web or elsewhere instead. Remember that sample texts do not need to be long, but that two or three paragraphs should be enough.

13 - Project History

13.1 - What is the ProZ.com Project History?

The ProZ.com Project History system provides translators and interpreters with a convenient means of keeping a record of projects done, by language, field and other characteristics. Use it to organize your records, keep track of payments, etc. Additionally, the Project History system allows users to display general details of select projects in their profile pages, in order to communicate to potential clients and collaborators the nature of their past experience. With the clients' permission, client names and feedback can also be shown.

When an outsourcer searches the ProZ.com directory for a translator or interpreter, the number of corroborating projects —in the field and pair— will be shown.

It is also possible to keep track of, and optionally display, the names of ProZ.com colleagues who have worked with you on a project.

13.2 - Who can use the Project History system?

All site users are allowed full use of the Project History functionality.

13.3 - How do I add a new project to my project history?

To add a new project to your project history visit your Project history page. Select the Add a new project option from the menu to the left and you will be re-directed to the project form. Complete this form with all required information and click on Submit.

Once you have submitted your project, you can make it visible in your profile by clicking on Make visible in the Actions column, next to the project.

13.4 - What type of projects can be listed?

Use the Project History(SM) system to keep track of translation, interpreting, editing, proofreading projects that you have completed personally.

13.5 - Can I list projects obtained from clients outside of ProZ.com?

Yes, you can list any project, regardless of how you met the client, and regardless of whether or not the client is registered with ProZ.com.

13.6 - I/my company managed a project. Should I list that?

No, you should not list projects which you or your company has managed. The Project History system is intended for translators, interpreters, editors and proofreaders to keep track of work they have completed personally.

13.7 - Is my Project History(SM) private?

Yes —by default, only you see the information that you enter into your project history.

13.8 - I see other users' project histories. Why is that?

It is possible to display general details of select projects from your project history, if you wish to. An overview of projects you have opted to show will appear in your profile page, under a tab marked "Project History". Displaying projects representative of your areas of expertise may be an effective means of marketing your services.

13.9 - I notice that client names are sometimes shown in other users' project histories. What determines whether or not a clients' name is shown?

The client's name is only shown if both parties agree to display it publicly.

When you enter a project into your project history, you are asked whether or not you prefer that the client's name be shown. If you prefer to display the client's name, an email is automatically sent to the client asking for the client's permission. Once that permission is received, the client's name becomes visible.

13.10 - What is outsourcer corroboration?

When you enter a project, you are given the option of requesting outsourcer corroboration. If you request this, the outsourcer will have the option of verifying that the project took place and that your description was accurate.

13.11 - How does outsourcer feedback work?

Another option available when entering a project is to request outsourcer feedback. When this is requested, the outsourcer is given an opportunity to describe his/her experience with you as positive, neutral or negative. A one-line comment may also be entered.

Building up a history of client feedback may be an effective marketing technique.

13.12 - I sent a collaborator confirmation request and it seems it did not go through. What can I do?

If you sent a collaborator confirmation request and your collaborator did not receive the email message requesting confirmation, try re-sending the request. To do so, click on Edit next to the project in the Project history page and enter your collaborator ID at the bottom of the project form. Re-send the invitation by clicking on Submit.

13.13 - How does my project history affect how I am shown in the directory?

When a client searches for a translator in a specific language and field and your name is found, the number of *corroborated* projects you have in that field will be shown. Your position in the directory is not affected.

Note that only projects that you make public will be considered for the purposes of directory listings.

13.14 - How can making selections from my project history visible help me to meet new clients?

Clients may be reassured to know that you have experience in the language pair and field in which they require service. By making select projects visible in your profile page, you communicate to potential clients the nature of your experience, and optionally, your track record in satisfying clients.

What is more, because the number of corroborated projects (in field and pair) is shown when a client searches the directory, and because projects and keywords you make visible are likely to be indexed by Google, using the project history features is likely not only to reassure clients, but also to help them find your profile in the first place.

13.15 - Can I keep track of, or display, who I have worked together with on my projects?

Yes. If your colleague(s) are registered with ProZ.com (members or otherwise), you can associate their names with the project, for organizational purposes. You can also request corroboration of project details, and one line of feedback, and this will be displayed to others if you choose to make the project visible in your profile page.

13.16 - Can I hide my projects if I get negative feedback from the outsourcer?

No. You lose the ability to edit, delete or hide a project when you submit it to the outsourcer for feedback. You regain the ability to delete or hide a project if the outsourcer gives you positive feedback.

13.17 - My client gave me negative/neutral feedback, is there any way it can be removed/changed?

ProZ.com will not get involved in any conflicts between translators and their clients involving Project History.

13.18 - Why I can not delete a project in my Project History(SM) list?

It is not possible to delete a project that has received neutral or negative feedback from an outsourcer. It is also not possible to delete a project that is awaiting corroboration.

13.19 - My client never received a notification to review my project, can they still review it somehow?

If your client does not receive a notification to review a project you submitted to them, they can still leave feedback. To do so, they can log into their ProZ.com account that is associated with their Blue Board record, and leave you feedback in their Outsourcer Control Center located here.

13.20 - Should I include only big projects?

No. Big projects are relevant, but describing smaller projects in narrowly defined fields may help show your expertise.

13.21 - How can I enter projects if all my work is confidential?

You only need to enter as much information as you feel comfortable with. In most cases, a general description should be enough to convey the desired information without compromising confidentiality. You can find below a sample Project history with two projects described in general terms. No client or brand names are mentioned, no specific details provided, and yet a potential client can get the idea of the kind of projects you can deal with.

13.22 - I don't want to ask my client for corroboration, what can I do?

Again, the tool is for you to use according to your needs and preferences. You can include information about partners and clients, and even ask for their corroboration, or exclude this information. You can even keep your projects hidden from view and use the feature only for your internal, administrative purposes.

13.23 - I am an interpreter, I seldom (or never) do translations. Project history does not apply to me. How can I complete my profile?

If you go to the Add project page, you'll see that one of the options in the drop-down box is for Interpretations (even though translation is the default), so you could enter a project based on an interpretation job you have done as well, since this will also give potential clients a better idea of the type of work you do.

13.24 - I don't want to add project history information at this time. How can I complete my profile?

If you select the option I choose not to enter my Project History at this time the corresponding field will be evaluated as "complete" from the profile completion pint of view. However, by not including your project history you are failing to make use of a strong marketing tool.

14 - CV/resumé

14.1 - How do I upload a CV/resume to my profile?

You can upload a copy of your CV to your profile from the Personalization section of your Profile updater. Select the language in which your CV is written, then browse your computer files system for your CV file and click on Open. Then, check the box next to I understand that uploading my CV/resume and setting its visibility to "Everyone" will allow my CV to be indexed by search engines such as Google. If I remove my CV from my profile later, it may take some time for this indexed information to also be removed from search engine caches. if you understand and agree to these terms and have set visibility permissions for your file.

• Show to everyone will show your CV to anyone viewing ProZ.com, even if they do not have an account with the site or if they are not logged-in.
  
• Show to logged-in users will allow any ProZ.com user, not just paying members, to access your CV file.
  
• The Show to paying members only option will display your CV file to ProZ.com paying members only.
  
• Finally, the Show to no-one option will just keep your CV hidden from any site visitor while it is used by filters.
  

14.2 - I uploaded an image/CV but it is not shown or can not be dowloaded.

ProZ.com utilizes more than one web server. When you uploaded an image or a CV, it can take between several minutes and a half hour for the files to be copied to all the web servers. During this time, you may notice a blank where a photo should be, or, for CVs, you may get a page not found error. Please give it some time before submitting a support request.

Note: You should assume that information you display in your CV will be indexed by search engines (you can, however, set the visibility level of your CV). If you choose to remove your CV later, it may take some time for this indexed information to also be removed from search engine caches.

14.3 - How do I update/edit/replace my present CV/resume?

To update your CV, go to the Personalization section of your Profile updater and scroll down to the CV/Resume section. Click on Delete next to the CV you want to update. Once removed, upload the new version of your CV by selecting the language in which your CV is written from the Upload another CV in the drop-down menu and clicking on the Browse button to search your computer's file system for the document you wish to upload.

Once you have chosen the document, check the agreement box and select a visibility permission for your CV. Finally, click on the Save and update profile button.

Make sure your CV is in .txt, .pdf, .doc, .docx, or .rtf format, and is no larger than 250 KB. If you are a full member your CV may be up to 2 MB large.

Also, remember that ProZ.com uses multiple webservers to handle user traffic. When you upload anything via the Profile Updater page, it may take several minutes to become visible.

14.4 - How do I remove an old CV?

To remove your CV, go to the CV/Resume section of your Profile updater and click on Delete next to the CV you want to delete.

14.5 - How can I delete my resume/CV/photo?

In your profile page, go to Settings. In the menu, choose Uploads. There, you will find a check box with the title Delete current image or Delete current Resume/CV. After checking it, click on Submit.

Your photo/resume will be deleted. Please, remember that it might take several minutes to see the results.

14.6 - The CV/resume file I uploaded to my profile is accessible from outside ProZ.com

When you upload a CV/resume file to your ProZ.com profile, you must assume that the information it contains will be visible on the web —and that your file may be downloaded by anyone— unless you set visibility permissions when uploading it (i.e. unless you specify that you do not want anyone, except for other ProZ.com members, to access your CV/resume file).

14.7 - I deleted my profile/CV but Google still shows it.

You should ask Google to delete that information from their Cache. You can do it here.

Remember that in your new profile, in the Settings-Search Engine Settings, you have the option Profile Indexing. You might select Index if you want search engines to store a snapshot of your profile page and, No index if you do not want search engines to store a snapshot of your profile page. If you selected Index (default option), that information is stored in Google's cache and we just don't have a way to prevent Google from saving it.

Also, note that we've just recently started the full removal of CVs. We original simply "un-linked" them from a profile in the event that someone did not actually intend to remove his or her resume. As our user base has expanded, this has lead to higher resource usage so we've started to completely remove them. From here on, if you remove a CV from your profile, it will be deleted from the ProZ.com servers within 15 minutes.

Note: You should assume that information you display in your CV will be indexed by search engines. If you choose to remove your CV later, it may take some time for this indexed information to also be removed from search engine caches.

15 - About me

15.1 - Can I use HTML code in the About me section of my profile?

Yes. You can customize the About me section in your profiles by adding HTML code and some dynamic content such as instant messaging tools, clocks, hit counters, etc. Check the quick guide for creating ProZ profiles using HTML code tutorial to obtain some special effects.

15.2 - How can I localize the content of the About me section of my profile?

You can localize the content of your About me and other profile areas through the Profile localization tab. You can also get to this page by clicking on Localize your content in the Settings tab of your profile.

Note: English version will not require localisation as it is a default language of ProZ.com, hence there is not ProZ.com version localized into English. You can add text for About me section in English directly from your main profile page by clicking on a pad and pencil icon.

15.3 - There are extra line breaks in my profile and I can not get rid of them. What should I do?

Here is why: every line break entered in the profile background form gets converted into a br tag in the html. In order to prevent the large spaces, you can not enter line breaks (by hitting enter) after your td and tr tags. This is not pure HTML, and we did it so that those without HTML experience could make reasonable profiles. Sorry for causing this confusion.

15.4 - How can I edit the About Me section of my profile?

To edit your About Me, head to your Profile updater, and, under Marketing and Promotion, click on Bio.

Make sure to click on the Save button below the Bio editor before leaving the page.


If you want to add the format to your bio, click on A WYSIWYG editor is also available. This editor will allow you to bold, underline, and italicize your text and insert links, headers, images, etc.


You can use this link to head to your Bio editor

If you want to add colors, tables, or other rich format features that are not available in the WYSIWYG editor, you can edit the format manually using HTML code. To do this, click on "Code view" and edit the HTML source. After you have finished editing the HTML, go back to the rich text view by clicking the same button, and then save your changes.

You can learn how to add colors, as well as other simple HTML attributes, with this HTML tutorial.

You may check all steps via this video.

16 - Availability calendar

16.1 - What is the availability calendar?

Your ProZ.com availability calendar lets you indicate to potential clients your approximate availability to take on new work. It is shown in your profile page and in various other places throughout the site.

16.2 - What is the value of indicating my availability?

Outsourcers with urgent projects can search for those who have indicated they are immediately available for new work. Specifying that you are available helps you appear in these searches. On the other hand, if you are currently busy, indicating that you are not available can help prevent you from being contacted with such requests. It can also be helpful to give potential clients and collaborators a rough idea of what your upcoming schedule looks like.

16.3 - How can I specify my availability?

Specify your availability in your availability calendar, reachable by clicking the small round availability indicator icon next to your name at the top of each page, or by clicking here.

To indicate your availability on a specific date, click that day in the calendar and a dialog will prompt you to specify your availability. For example, if you're completely available for the work day on the 25th, select 100% Available. If you're only partially available for half the day, select Partially available (50%).

To specify availability for several days at once, click and drag with your mouse to select multiple days.

16.4 - How is capacity used in the availability calendar?

When you set your average sustainable capacity in words per day (WPD), your availability calendar will also automatically display approximately how many words you can process on any particular day.

When estimating your productivity using WPD, assume that you won't be using a Translation Memory. Your burst rate WPD should be an estimate of a one-day maximum for projects with tight deadlines when you have 100% availability.

If you prefer not to express your productivity for others, consider entering rates for your own purposes and leaving them visible only to yourself. Future features (planning, etc.) may allow you to make use of these.

16.5 - How are working hours used in the availability calendar?

Your standard working hours and time zone are displayed at the top of your availability calendar, along with information about differences between your time zone and the person viewing your calendar.

In addition, if the Consider me unavailable outside of working hours option is selected in your calendar settings, an indication of your remaining availability for the current work day can be automatically adjusted as your day progresses (see below for details).

16.6 - What is Availability remaining in current work day, and why is it different than the availability specified in my calendar?

If the options Consider me unavailable outside of working hours or Consider me unavailable on weekends are selected in your calendar settings, your availability remaining in the current work day is automatically calculated, and shown above your availability calendar. For example, if you specified that you are 100% available today, and that you have a capacity of 3000 WPD, when your work day is half over your Availability remaining in current work day will indicate Partially available (1500 words).

This adjusted availability is shown above your availability calendar and in your profile page, in addition to the availability you have specified for that day. It is not currently reflected in other availability indicators or searches, though this functionality may be added in the future.

17 - Profile tabs

17.1 - My Visitors tab

1.1 - What is the Visitors tab?

The Visitors tab is for members only. The Visitors tab works like a hit counter, but does so much more than a traditional hit counter. The Visitors tab allows profile owners to keep track of how many hits they've received in the last 30 days, but it also provides information about who, what, where, and when their profile was visited.

Note: The Visitors tab does not indicate who exactly visited your page by username or entity ID. Likewise, when you visit a user's profile, they will not be able to see your username or entity ID on their Visitors tab. This tab only shows the viewer type, for example an agency, or freelancer, or both.

1.2 - What are the options to display crawlers' visits at the Visitors tab?

The Visitors tab provides the following options for site users to filter the crawlers' visits results:

• List by visitor
  
• List by each visit
  
• List crawler visits
  

1.3 - Who has access to my Visitors tab?

No one other than you (the owner) has access to your Visitors tab.

Note that the Visitors tab is for (paying) members only.

1.4 - Does the Visitors tab count my own visits?

No. Presently, the Visitors page does not count your visits when you come to your profile page.

1.5 - Will anyone see my username or entity ID on their Visitors tab?

The Visitors tab does not indicate who exactly visited your page by username or entity ID. Likewise, when you visit a user's profile, they will not be able to see your username or entity ID on their Visitors tab. The Visitors tab only displays the viewer type. Also, the Visitors tab will indicate whether the viewer is a site member (highlighted in blue), ID verified, and the viewer's location as indicated by their IP address. Finally, the Visitors tab will indicate where the viewer came from, tabs viewed, last time visited, and the total number of times the visitor has been to your profile page.

1.6 - Will anyone be able to link to my profile page from their Visitors tab?

No. The owner will not be able to link to your profile page form their Visitors tab. The owner will only have access to your IP address's location.

1.7 - Someone is coming to my visitors tab multiple times, should I be worried?

Those visits are probably coming primarily from a search engine crawler, which is what goes out and spiders the internet for pages to be searchable.The visitor you had those multiple visits from is actually MSN, Yahoo or Google. So basically, no need for alarm, a machine is visiting your profile numerous times, not a human.

If you'd like to find out some more information about this, feel free to take a look at this forum thread.

1.8 - What does the checkmark under the viewer type signify?

The checkmark under the viewer type signifies that visitor has been ID verified. Some of your visitors may or may not be ID verified; therefore, not all visitors will have checkmarks in that column. To find out more about getting ID verified, please read FAQ #8 in this section (Profile Page).

1.9 - What does it mean by Viewed?

The Viewed column indicates which tabs the viewer clicked on in your profile, or in other words, pages viewed of your profile. Presently, only three or less tab visits will be shown in this column.

Note: Due to the number of subpages/tabs on the site, there may be entries in your Viewed column that you don't recognize or understand. However, overtime, with more use of the function and more development, we will be able to identify those better in the near future. Thanks for being patient.

1.10 - What exactly does the Came From column identify?

The Came From signifies what page the viewer used to locate your profile. Whether they searched you on Google or clicked on your featured pro profile from the homepage, you'll see it under this column.

Note: Due to the number of websites and site pages on ProZ.com, there may be entries in your Came From column that you don't recognized or understand. However, overtime with more development and use of the function we will be able to correct that problem. Thanks for being patient.

1.11 - How do I add a hit counter to my profile page?

There are many sites that offer hit counter code that you can put into your profile page to track and display how many people visit you.

Please refer to the About me section on the new profile page, then paste the HTML code for your hit counter.

17.2 - Custom tabs

2.1 - What are custom tabs?

Custom tabs are extra tabs users and members can add to their profiles to provide additional information. Site members can add up to 3 extra custom tabs while non-members can add only one.

2.2 - Why should I consider adding a custom tab?

Custom tabs can be a good way of providing more or specialized information about your services or qualifications as a language professional.

2.3 - How do I add a custom tab to my profile?

To add a custom tab to your profile, head to the Custom tabs section of your profile from the Settings tab of your profile.

You can add a title for your tab(s) and add content then and there, or after you have created the tab (after your tab is created, when you visit the page again you'll see the option to edit).

2.4 - How do I change the name of a custom tab?

You can edit a custom tab name any time you want, by going back in to the Custom tabs section of your profile from the Settings tab; and clicking on the edit icon next to the tab name you want to change.

Note that the About me section of your profile is not a separate tab (you could make a tab dedicated to about me-related material, of course). While the content is customizable, the name of the About me section is not.

2.5 - How do I add an image to a customised tab on my profile?

To show an image in a custom tab (a scanned copy of a certificate, a photo, etc.), first you will have to upload the image to an image hosting website such as http://www.imagehosting.com/ or http://imageshack.us/.

Once your image is uploaded to these websites, they will provide you with a direct link to your image. Copy that link/URL and insert it in the following HTML formula:

<img src=" HTML HYPERLINK ">

Note that the direct URL/link to your image must be preceded by the tag <img src=" and followed by the tag ">.

If you have trouble with any of this, just submit a support request to get help from the support team on this —be sure to attach the image(s) you are working with to your request.

2.6 - How do I remove a custom tab?

To remove a custom tab you have created, go to the Custom tabs section of your profile from the Settings tab and click on the small x next to the title of the tab you want to remove.

18 - ProZ.com Wallet

Your ProZ.com wallet can also be used in relation to Turnkey translations.

18.1 - What is my ProZ.com wallet for?

Your ProZ.com wallet is used to track payments you have made for items and services purchased through the site. Your wallet is not intended as a payment method or for use in transferring funds from one account to another.

18.2 - How can I accept payments through my ProZ.com Profile page?

This option has been removed from the profile wallet. You can now accept payments through ProZ*Pay.

18.3 - What are the fees for using the ProZ.com Wallet?

There is, in most cases, a fee of 5% that we charge in addition to the fees particular to the method of transfer (ex. 5.5% fee taken by credit card company, $35 fee taken by bank on wire transfers, etc.) We take the 5% only once; when you withdraw money from the wallet, you would not be charged the 5%.

Specific fees will appear if you make use of the function.

18.4 - How can I make a wallet deposit?

To make a wallet deposit start here (or click on Add Money to your Wallet in your profile wallet). Then, click on the amount you would like to deposit ($20 USD, $30 USD or $60 USD) and you will arrive at the purchase wizard. Enter your billing information and select a payment method for your deposit.

If after making your purchase, the amount deposited is not credited to your wallet, please submit a support request and specify 1) the amount deposited; 2) the currency used; 3) the payment method selected; 4) the transfer date; 5) any other relevant information (bank name and account number, account holder's name, PayPal or Skrill email address, transaction ID, etc).

18.5 - When are wallet withdrawals done?

You may issue a request to withdraw funds from your wallet at any time, but withdrawals are generally processed at the end of the month. If you would like to check on the status of a payment, the best way to do so is by submitting a support request.

18.6 - What are the fees associated with wallet withdrawals?

ProZ.com does not charge a fee for processing wallet withdrawals, but you are responsible for paying any third-party transaction fees. Because some withdrawal methods incur higher transaction costs, those methods require a minimum withdrawal amount in order to cover the transaction costs.

Withdrawal methods:

• PayPal (no minimum)
  
• Check made out in US dollars ($25 minimum)
  
• Wire transfer from a US bank (approx. $35 minimum, must exceed the sum of the transaction fees)
  

18.7 - How can I use funds received for Turn-key translations?

Funds received in your wallet for Turn-key translations function as regular wallet deposits. This means that they can be used towards your purchase of ProZ.com membership. They can also be withdrawn from your wallet.

19 - Dynamic profile content

19.1 - Why might some ProZ.com profiles include user-supplied dynamic content (javascript)?

Some users have chosen to customize their ProZ.com profiles with dynamic content such as instant messaging tools, clocks, hit counters, etc. This dynamic content may be implemented in a scripting language such as javascript, which can be run by the viewer's web browser.

19.2 - What are the risks of accepting dynamic content (i.e. running javascript) from a profile owner?

Although such content is common on the internet and is likely harmless, there is a possibility that security risks may be involved. For example, a cross-site scripting attack might allow the profile owner to gain unauthorized access to the viewer's ProZ.com account. (See this cross-site scripting article on Wikipedia for details.)

Because of this potential security risk, user-supplied dynamic content is only enabled in profile pages when the viewer has given permission.

19.3 - How is dynamic profile content handled by ProZ.com?

If a ProZ.com profile contains dynamic content, a notice is shown at the upper-right of the page, indicating whether the dynamic content is enabled or disabled.

If the profile owner is a ProZ.com member, the viewer is given the choice to see the profile with or without the dynamic content.

If the profile owner is not a ProZ.com member, the dynamic content is always disabled.

19.4 - How can I control whether dynamic content is enabled when I view a profile?

If the profile owner is a ProZ.com member, the first time you view the profile you'll be prompted whether to enable the dynamic content. Your preference will be stored in a cookie in your web browser, so you won't be prompted again when viewing that member's profile in that browser. If you later wish to change your preference, and enable or disable the content, click the Settings link in the dynamic content notice at the upper right of the page.

Your preference applies only to that one member's profile. You have a separate preference setting for each member's profile with dynamic content.

For reasons of security, there is no way to enable the dynamic content if the profile owner is not a ProZ.com member.

19.5 - How can I add my instant messenger status to my profile?

You can show your instant messenger status in your profile without including customized javascript. Go to the Contact tab of your Profile updater to edit the instant messenger settings. If your instant messenger program isn't supported on that page, submit a support request to have it added to the list.

19.6 - How can I include my Twitter feed in my profile?

You can include your Twitter feed in your profile from the Contact tab of your Profile updater. Just click on the Social networks (LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook) tab and enter the necessary information.

19.7 - How can I include a hit counter and visitor analysis in my profile without customized javascript?

ProZ.com members have access to a profile hit counter and visitor analysis tool. See the Visitors tab on your profile page.

19.8 - Can I include CSS in my profile?

ProZ.com still doesn't allow CSS and Javascript code use in profiles.

19.9 - Are iframes considered dynamic content?

Yes, iframes are also considered dynamic content, and are handled the same way as javascript.

20 - Profile referrals

20.1 - What are profile referrals?

Profile referrals are member sources that are crosslinked to your profile and shown at the bottom right corner of your main profile page.

20.2 - What are the benefits of showing referrals in my profile?

Profile crosslinking / member referrals allow you to exchange links with ProZ.com members working in other languages or fields, whose work you know to be of a high standard. This could work to your benefit as it would shows you as part of the ProZ.com community, sharing with other professionals.

20.3 - How do I enter referrals in my profile?

You can enter referrals from your Referrals page or by clicking on Referrals under the Settings tab in your profile. Simply enter another member's ID in the Add new referral box en then click on Select. This will allow you top chose a field and a language pair for which the other member can be a reference and a comment. Once you click on Save, the referral will show in the Referrals section of your profile page.

20.4 - How can I delete or hide a referral?

You can hide or delete a referral by clicking on Hide this referral or Delete this referral in your Referrals page.

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