Choosing A Professional Language Interpreter

A very common mix-up, translators and interpreters work within the same field of providing linguistic services, but they do so in very different manners.

An interpreter will facilitate communication by relaying spoken word between multiple languages. A translator will do the same, but for written text or communications. Knowing which type of language professional you’re looking for before starting your process, will make for a more effectively handled project.

Looking for Translation? Check Out Our Tips to Hiring a Professional Language Translator.

Interpreters are, by profession, linguistic experts and generally familiar with processes in their industries of specialization. However, they like many professionals abide by a standard of practice that dictates how they perform their job. While you may expect a language interpreter to provide a multitude of services concerning languages, cultural insight and industry related tasks, this is not always the case.

What Is in the Job Description of an Interpreter?

• Faithful oral translation of any spoken word by clients and audience – this goes for words and tone of voice. It is important to be aware that a language interpreter’s job is to keep all parties in communication, at all times. Therefore, if you need to discuss a private topic, be aware that doing so in front of an interpreter could result in it being translated.
• Client Confidentiality – like lawyers and doctors, interpreters can be privy to private information. Part of the job of an interpreter is to discuss this information with nobody outside of their direct clients – including press or the hiring agency.
• Impartial Rendering of Services – you can think of an interpreter as a conduit of speech. This means that they should in no way interpret your message based on subjective biases. They are to remain objective and impartial at all times when working in order to deliver the most accurate interpretation.

What is Not in the Job Description of an Interpreter?

• Providing expert cultural opinions concerning a population in every situation – though interpreters may be familiar with cultural differences that could hinder communication, they are not cultural experts. Therefore, they should not always be expected to state their opinions on cross-cultural matters unless they believe they cannot faithfully interpret without doing so. An interpreter may state that they believe there could be a hindrance to communication due to cultural differences, and it is then the job of the client to pursue more information.
• Providing advice or opinions for legal matters, medical diagnosis or business proceedings – interpreters are there to facilitate communication, not assist clients with making decisions. Although interpreters are generally specialized in a certain area, this does not necessarily give them the authority to provide their insight, and they should in no way be expected to.

The age old question in the language industry:  when is it appropriate to use a professional interpreter or translator, and when can you refer to an untrained native speaker for help?

The answer to this question really depends on you as a client, but some good indicators that you might be in need of a professional are:

• The nature of what you need interpreted is complicated– is it a quick meeting to just give someone the gist about something, or is it a complex topic that can’t afford to be misunderstood? If you happen to say the latter, you’re better off hiring a trained professional.
• The size and scope of your event – if you need to facilitate communication for a large group of people, over a span of a few hours or even a few days, you’re better off getting professionals who are trained to work under such conditions. Interpreting is a demanding task, and you want professionals who know how to perform under pressure.

Another indicator to needing a professional language interpreter could be the language you need facilitated. If you know your audience speaks a particular dialect, responds better to a particular accent, or if they simply speak a rarer language, you will likely need to go through an interpreting agency for both convenience’s sake, and availability of professionals who meet the specific requirements of your project.

Interpretation agencies have a responsibility to provide you with trained and accredited professionals, and you should always make sure that any language service provider you’re considering does so.  Main characteristics to look for include:

• Do they vet all their language interpreters?
• Do they ensure language interpreters are specialized in particular industries?
• Are their language interpreters native speakers of your target language?
• Is the language interpreter experienced?
• Is the language interpreter trained in the specific mode of interpretation you need for your event (Simultaneous, Consecutive or Whisper)?
• Do they ask for preparation materials for their language interpreters beforehand?

All language interpreters in our network must be trained professionals in both language and practice.

This means we look for certified interpreters in specific industries, those who hold degrees or accreditation from known institutions and those with proven track records in their fields.

All interpreters in the Language Connection’s Network are expected to perform under strict quality guidelines outlined by our project managers. By adhering to these procedures we are able to measure the interpreter’s long-term performance in areas such as: