When your best work is invisible: Building social proof as a medical translator or writer

Medical translators and writers operate behind the scenes, often under strict non-disclosure agreements, producing documents that are never publicly available. And yet, every new client expects us to demonstrate that we are trustworthy, capable, and professional – without seeing the work itself or hearing directly from those who have relied on us.

In other words, we are constantly asked to make the invisible visible.

Why social proof matters

Social proof – those external signals of credibility, like testimonials, references, or endorsements – is essential. It isn’t just about reputation. It’s about trust.

Clients are not just buying words on a page. They are entrusting you with texts that may impact regulatory submissions, patient understanding, or public health information.

They’re not just looking for someone good at writing or translating. They want someone who understands the stakes. Someone who works carefully under pressure. Someone who won’t introduce problems into an already complex process.

They’re not just looking for someone good at writing or translating. They want someone who understands the stakes. Someone who works carefully under pressure. Someone who won’t introduce problems into an already complex process.

Social proof bridges the gap between what clients can’t see – your working process, your subject-matter knowledge, your sense of responsibility – and what they need to feel: that you’re a safe, competent, reliable choice.

Social proof is not about popularity. It is about reducing perceived risk.

 Getting social proof is often harder for us than for people in less regulated or more public-facing roles. Confidentiality and sensitivity mean we rarely get to collect public testimonials or share case studies.

But clients still need something to hold onto.

When you can get testimonials

While not always possible, it’s worth making testimonial requests part of your process. Many professionals in our field avoid asking, worried it might feel pushy – but clients are often more open than we think, especially if approached with care and at the right time.

Make it feel natural, not like an extra ask.

• Make it part of your project wrap-up:

After submitting the final deliverable, and once you know the client is satisfied, open the door gently. A simple question like, “I’d love to hear your thoughts on how the project went – was there anything you found particularly helpful?” creates space for the client to give feedback without pressure.

• Let feedback lead to the testimonial:

If the client’s feedback is positive, you can then follow up: “Would you be comfortable with me sharing part of your comment as a testimonial? I’d be happy to anonymize it or prepare a short draft for you to approve.” Many clients appreciate this, especially if you make it easy.

• Expect refusals and don’t take them personally

Even satisfied clients might be unable or unwilling to give a testimonial due to internal policies. This is common in our field – and not a reflection on you.

This is precisely why testimonials should be seen as just one part of your social proof strategy, not its foundation.

When testimonials aren’t an option – what else can you rely on?

There are still many ways to demonstrate your reliability and professionalism. You just need to be more intentional and creative.

• Highlight repeat business and long-term collaborations:

Clients don’t stick with freelancers who make their work harder. Even if you can’t name names, referencing consistent work helps: "I regularly collaborate with regulatory affairs teams at two mid-sized pharmaceutical companies," or "I have supported multiple teams across clinical development and medical affairs for several years." You’re showing reliability without breaking confidentiality.

• Use anonymized case examples:

Case examples are a simple and ethical way to show your problem-solving skills. You can describe the type of client, the project type, the challenge, and the result, while fully respecting confidentiality. For instance: "I helped a regional CRO adapt and harmonize informed consent forms for a clinical trial, meeting tight submission deadlines and avoiding common reviewer queries." Such examples make the value of your work more concrete.

• Draw on parallel experience:

If you don’t have direct social proof for the exact service the client is asking about, highlight related experiences. For example, if asked about rare disease trial materials but your background or experience is in oncology, focus on shared skills: simplifying complex content, maintaining ethical sensitivity, aligning with regulatory expectations. The therapeutic area may change – your approach doesn’t.

• Let your public contributions speak for you:

Not all social proof has to come from client projects. Speaking at events, writing articles, serving on committees, or even sharing thoughtful insights online – all of these show expertise and commitment. Clients who can’t see your portfolio can still see how you show up in your profession.

Be transparent

One of the most effective, yet often overlooked, ways to build trust is simple: be honest.

If a client asks for references or testimonials you can’t provide, explain why – calmly and clearly: "Because most of my work is covered by confidentiality agreements, it’s not always possible for clients to provide formal testimonials. However, I’d be happy to share anonymized case studies or describe similar projects I’ve handled."

Most clients will understand – many face similar limitations. What matters is that you’re respectful of confidentiality and proactive about offering alternatives.

This kind of transparency is a form of social proof. It shows integrity, maturity, and professionalism – the very qualities clients are looking for.

You need to make the invisible visible – on your terms.

Approach social proof as an ongoing practice of communicating trust, credibility, and professional integrity. It's not about showing everything. It’s about showing enough – clearly, creatively, and consistently – so that the clients who need you can recognize your value, even when much of your best work will never be seen.