Speaker’s Bio
Dr JC Penet is a Reader in Translation Industry Studies at Newcastle University (UK). He is also a Certified Personal and Executive Coach (PG Certificate in Coaching, University of Warwick). For the last few years, his research has focused on the impact of automation in the language industry on freelance translators’ sustainable wellbeing, especially in the UK context. In September 2024, he organised the international conference ‘Ethics and Self-care in Translation and Other Professions’ at Newcastle University. He is also the author of Working as a Professional Translator (Routlege, 2024).
Abstract
In this event, we will explore the concept of sustainable wellbeing for budding language industry professionals in a deregulated language industry that is becoming increasingly more complex. Using the latest research in the field, we will first reflect on the many potential physical, cognitive and ergonomics stressors for language industry professionals and consider self-care as an imperative for all. This will be followed by a more hands-on approach as we introduce some of the core principles of coaching-style conversations – with the key skills of effective questioning and deep listening – as a concrete form of peer-support and, therefore, self-care, for language professionals.
