This article will guide you through the various aspects of interpreting, such as the types of interpreting,
the tools used by interpreters, the importance of having two interpreters in some cases and the growing
importance of online interpreting.
1. Types of Interpreting
Choosing the right type of interpreting is crucial to the success of any international event or meeting.
There are various types of service, ranging from simultaneous at big events to consecutive at more intimate,
slower-paced meetings.
The choice will depend on the type of event, its duration, the type, and number of
attendees and, sometimes, the budget available.
Among the various types of interpreting, the following stand out:
Simultaneous Interpreting:
At big events, global conferences or international meetings, simultaneous interpreting
stands out as the preferred option. Interpreters, working inside soundproof booths, provide real-time
translations, thus enabling communication without delay and without loss of crucial information.
Consecutive Interpreting:
In more intimate contexts, such as executive presentations or speeches, consecutive interpreting comes into play.
In this case, interpreters take notes during the speaker's intervention and provide an accurate translation of the
essential information after the speaker concludes their intervention.
Whispered Interpreting:
In more informal situations or where only a small group of participants needs translation, whispered interpreting
is the most common form of interpreting. In this mode, the interpreter stands close to the receiver and translates
in a low voice, maintaining discretion but ensuring accurate understanding. This approach is ideal for less formal
conversations or small audiences where simultaneous or consecutive interpreting are not practical.
Each type of interpreting technique has its place, and understanding when to choose each will ensure effective
communication in any situation.
2. Why do You Need Two People?
If you have asked for a quotation for a simultaneous interpreting project, you might have encountered this “limitation”.
Simultaneous Interpreters work in pairs, and there are several reasons for that.
The presence of two interpreters in a team is not simply a precaution, it is a strategic necessity.
Fatigue limit:
Interpreting work is intellectually very demanding, and the fatigue limit can affect the quality of the work. Having a
relay team not only ensures continuous performance, but also guarantees high quality delivery during extended events.
Seamless:
Smooth transition between interpreters is essential to avoid communication breakdowns. This dual approach ensures a
smooth delivery, without losing focus and clarity at any time.
3. Putting a Professional Interpreter in the Spotlight:
Hiring a professional interpreter goes beyond ensuring linguistic understanding. The experience and specialisation of these
professionals are fundamental. From understanding technical nuances to adapting to jargon and cultural contexts, a professional
interpreter becomes a strategic asset to ensure effective communication in any situation.
Experience & Expertise:
Choosing interpreters with specific experience and expertise in the event or meeting industry is critical. These professionals
bring a deep understanding of technical and cultural nuances to ensure accurate and contextualised translation.
Adaptability:
The ability of interpreters to adapt to changes in tone, accents, jargon and cultural contexts is one of their greatest skills.
Their ability to adjust quickly to changing dynamics ensures effective communication in any situation.
4. Online or Remote Learning:
The digital era has transformed interpreting and enables global connectivity through virtual platforms. We will explore
how remote interpreting has become ubiquitous and provides flexibility in hybrid or fully virtual events. While interpreting
presents unique challenges, advanced technological solutions help mitigate these issues and deliver a seamless and successful
interpreting experience.
Virtual Platforms:
Remote interpreting has become global with the rise of virtual platforms. This approach provides flexibility in hybrid or fully
virtual events by connecting participants from all over the world without the traditional physical constraints.
Challenges & Solutions:
While online interpreting presents unique challenges, such as technical coordination and connection quality management, advanced
technological solutions help mitigate these issues and enable a smooth and successful interpreting experience.
Integrating Professional Management:
Selecting the best interpreting service for your events goes beyond the simple understanding of the
types and tools available. This is where the experience and advice of a reliable provider comes into play.
Having specialised Project Managers not only simplifies the selection process, but also ensures a precise
adaptation to the specific needs of your event or meeting. These professionals not only understand linguistic,
cultural, and technical diversity, but also work tirelessly to provide customised solutions that enhance the
communication and impact of your event.
Ultimately, choosing the right professionals, backed by expert management, not only breaks down
language barriers, but also builds bridges to your company's global success.
Conclusion:
Nowadays, interpreting stands as an essential pillar for effective communication at international events and meetings.
By understanding the different types of interpreting, the technological tools in play, the importance of dual teams and
the growing relevance of online interpreting, companies can make informed decisions that ensure the success of their events
and clear understanding between diverse participants.
However, to make the most of this holistic view, having an Interpreting Project Management Provider is the key to unlocking
the door to absolute success.