20 (or so) questions on how Carlos (@carlosdjomo) works

This series of posts was inspired by Lifehacker’s How I Work series, which I’ve been reading for quite some time and thoroughly enjoy. It’s about time we discover how our colleagues work and get to know them a little better.

If you want to participate in this fun series, email us at info@linguagreca.com for the Word template where you can fill in your answers & bio (incl. site/blog/social media) and then send it back to us as an attachment along with your photo (optional but preferred). If you don’t like any of the questions, just delete them and add your own. Check out the previous interviews here.

Location: Yaoundé, Cameroon
Desired location: Anywhere where I can work online and watch/play football (soccer) offline.
Current work title: EN-FR Technical Translator
Desired work title: The Same. I think it summarizes my main qualifications and skills
Languages you have studied or currently speak: English, French, medumba and a bit of pidgin English
The project you’re most proud of: Without doubt, it is a 200-thousand-word project series I completed after numerous sleepless nights and some problems with my wife. That made me understand that, in spite of all my determination, I’m only a human being. So I planned to draw up and stick to a work/life plan.
Your current computer setup: Core i7 Windows-based PC with 500 GB Internal memory, plus an external HDD (250 GB). The computer is an all-in-one workstation for translation, editing, graphic design and it doubles as a portable music player and home cinema 🙂
Do you own a smartphone? Yes, I do. It makes it more convenient to check mails or upload files to Google Drive when on the move.
Favorite time of the day: Early in the morning (4-6 a.m.) is the best time for me to plan for the whole day and I usually feel more inspired and creative during that period.
Favorite gadget (apart from computer & smartphone): My combined note/sketchpad. It helps me capture quick ideas, new concepts and other useful things that later turn into tasks/projects.
Next conference/event you’re planning to attend: Apart from translation-related webinars, I wish to take part to an international creative event to be hosted in my town. There are also a few business conferences (I am still to make adequate arrangements).
How many hours per day do you usually work: From 10 to 14 hours (depending on the workload)
Are you an introvert or an extrovert? I guess I’m a blend of the two races. While some people think I’m an introvert, others depict me as somebody who adapts to any environment and feel comfortable with everyone.
Are you an early-riser or a night-owl? Definitely a night-owl! I feel more comfortable working when people around me are sleeping 🙂
What do you listen to while you work? Gregorian music (for deep-concentration sessions) and African music (for creative works).

And a few non-work related questions to get more personal.
Next city/country you want to visit: Vatican City
Favorite vacation place: West Cameroon’s Highlands
Favorite book: The Holy Bible
Favorite song: I like so many songs it is difficult to choose which is my favorite.
What are you currently reading? Copywriting books & graphic design magazines.

Author bio

Carlos Djomo: French technical translator and language consultant with a diversified experience, Carlos has been providing translation, editing, DTP and copywriting services to numerous clients around the globe. He also took part in the collaborative book project, The World in Words, by TradOnline Books. Connect with him on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn.