Most of my work involves factory visits and manufacturing-related translation

However, that is not all I do. My translator/interpreter fees also apply to "please get x and y done for me there in Shenzhen because it's much easier that way" type tasks. You often will need to check on something or just make contact and verify something (sometimes in-person, i.e. the taking of photographs/video to confirm things). It can be very useful to have have at least one person locally in Shenzhen with whom you can communicate with easily and naturally. This need relates not only to language-based differences and uncertainties, but of course the cultural aspect as well. You should not be in the business of interpreting ambiguous broken English. Over time I've come to learn the various signals which indicate a "maybe" when the person is actually stating to me verbally or on paper that there is "no problem" with that. Often Chinese assume that you will take the relationship or transaction as a "work in progress". The danger is where you detrimentally rely on their representations or affirmations, all the while assuming that what they said was set in stone. With me, you can communicate in a way that allows you to make firm and solid plans for both the short and long-term.

I can aid you as your translator (of either written Chinese documents of any sort; I can read literally anything in Chinese), or oral Chinese interpreter for a factor visit. I can communicate fully your needs and plans to a Chinese supplier. All I need is for you to give me the details and particulars of what you need, by when, and all of the other details you are concerned with. I also don't represent anyone other than you: when you hire me you won't be hiring anything other than a "Johnny-on-the-spot" go-to-guy/communication device unless we decide in advance otherwise.

I can help you set up an office or find local personnel to meet any of the needs you might have in China. I can also provide with consulting services at the same rates as those of a translator.