Interpreter Tips
Things you MUST know to do business internationally
#1. Hire your own interpreter-
- If you're meeting with clients who don't speak English, hire your own professional interpreter*. Don't rely on your client's interpreter because that person's loyalty is to them, not you. It's worth the expense and sends a message to your client that you know what you're doing and they won't be able to take advantage of you.
- Don't rely on your client to refer you to an outside interpreter. If traveling outside the U.S., contact the U.S. Commerce Department for recommendations because you want an interpreter who will represent you and not feel obligated to your client.
- Make sure your interpreter has experience in your field and knows your industry's technical "lingo," whether it's legal, medical, etc.
-#2. Know the different types of interpretation-
- With consecutive interpretation the speaker pauses after short segments to allow for interpretation. Be sure to speak in brief segments; otherwise they are not hearing what you think you are conveying. If you speak too long, your interpreter cannot remember every word you said and cannot represent your ideas correctly. NOTE: Consecutive is how most interpretation takes place (unless you're working with most of IVC's large delegations) and it takes TWICE as long as a normal meeting would take, so plan your time accordingly.
- With simultaneous interpretation, the interpretation takes place just seconds behind the speaker for a continuous flow with few, or no, interruptions. This is the best, and most impressive, way to meet with a client. However it is the most difficult type of interpretation and requires not only the most skilled professional, but generally two interpreters who will take turns every 15 - 20 minutes. Be prepared to pay more for a simultaneous interpreter as well as for two. Some interpreters will only do simultaneous if they are using interpretation equipment. NOTE: IVC has wireless interpretation equipment for approximately 25-30 people. It can be rented by the day if we are not using it for our own delegations.
#3. *Know the difference between "interpreting" and "translating:"
- Unfortunately people use the two words interchangeably, which is incorrect. Using the words correctly sends a positive message that you know what you're doing internationally. Don't underestimate this. If you are using a company to hire an interpreter and tell them you need a translator, you are telling them that you're a novice. Don't expose yourself to being taken advantage of.
- If the company you're looking to hire uses the terms incorrectly, hire a different company. There are companies with people who speak many languages, and there are companies that are professional, working other professionals who interpret and translate.
What's the difference between the two words?
- Interpretation is the spoken word.
- Translation is the written word - (Note: Translators are not necessarily good interpreters; their training is different)
- To be respected in the international community, remember the difference between these two words, and use them correctly.
Now that you know the difference, you will begin to see that the media and the military use the terms incorrectly all the time! Be proud that you now know the correct way to use the words... and spread the message!
