There are two main types of translators: textual translators, who work with written documents, and simultaneous translators, or interpreters, who listen and translate a voice as it is being spoken. The former may work on a variety of documents, including legal, business-related, journalistic, or “literary” texts, and is generally paid by the word. The latter are normally paid either by the hour or as full-time staff in such settings as the United Nations, international business, or perhaps within the legal system as a court translator. There are a few terrific benefits afforded interpreters. Most commonly they exclaim, “The travel is excellent!” They also take pride in the frequency with which others are dependent on their knowledge and attention to detail. Translators find the creativity and mental acuity required of their profession challenging, but some become frustrated by the parameters within which they must perform. Interpreters must be flexible, as they may be called to work at any hour of the day or night, and they must be willing to withstand the significant pressure of a diplomatic or business meeting; textual translators, on the other hand, usually have time to refer to dictionaries and other reference tools, and to polish the final product. A variety of working environments exists for those with the skills of a translator. Simultaneous translators must have the most versatile backgrounds. A strong business background may be extremely useful to the simultaneous translator. Many companies mandate 60 hours worth of training for these translators once hired. To become a technical translator, applicants must pass an exam and receive special certification. These translators must also posses excellent technical writing skills. Thankfully, many companies offer test preparation classes to ready applicants for the exams. Court translators have the most lenient requirements of the group, but they must be completely fluent even in the slang of their second language. Generally, these translators are required to complete a thirty hour training course before beginning the job. Other translators work in academic fields either studying or interpreting foreign texts. This is where there is often the most room for creative expression. However, it is also the area most likely to be widely scrutinized.