Full Name: Kimberlee Thorne-Waintraub
Company: Small World Language Services
Position: Owner
Website: www.smallworldlanguages.net
Year Founded: 2004
Tell us about yourself and your business: I’m a US expat based in Buenos Aires, Argentina. We are a language niche company specializing in translation, proofreading and transcription.
What inspired you to start a business? It was a natural transition for me. I taught English for many years and then began hiring other teachers to help me. While I taught students, I realized there was a huge need for people to correct texts in English and to write well, so I started doing proofreading and editing (checking the original text with the translation for accuracy and quality).
With time, I became an in-house translator for a telecommunications newspaper online. As I developed better skills, the demand for my services also grew, and so did the demand. I made a lot of mistakes at the beginning, mostly because I would take on work I couldn’t handle. I’ve now learned that it’s better to only accept what you do well or you’ll disappoint your clients.
Share one business goal: I’d like to get to the point where people are breaking down doors to hire my services. Sounds funny, but it’s what I want. I want to be the one in demand – the one everyone wants and values.
What would you say contributes to your success? I’m not afraid of trying new things. I get these ideas and think, “Why not?” Most of the time, others tell me that it’s a great idea and that they loved it, so that encourages me to go forward.
I also work with a great team of linguists. Not only are they pros at what they do, but they’re also great people who bless my life in so many ways.
I must say that my husband is my main support. Without his encouragement, I don’t know where I’d be.
What advice would you give an aspiring entrepreneur? You shouldn’t think about it too much and just go forward with what you want to do, and not be afraid of risk. You’ll never be truly happy unless you give your dream a try. Just do it!
Anything else you want to mention about your business? Small World Language Services is the place where you can trust us with your language requirements. If you needed us yesterday, but you found us today, you’ll be glad you did!
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This is inspiring, and I’m glad you shared it. I agree with the advise about not being afraid of risk. Certainly, if we’re looking for new and better results, we have to explore unchartered territory. Continued success, Kimberlee!