Did you know 8 is a lucky number in Chinese culture?
- Whether it is the first time you need an interpreter’s assistance, or if you have worked with one before, here are our 8 useful tips and considerations to make the most of your time and achieve successful communication with the help of an on-site interpreter.
- If you are an interpreter you will certainly work with first-timers all along your career. These 8 tips can get you and your clients out of trouble during your first cooperation.
Before the meeting or event
- Request an interpreter for the right language combination with certain experience in the topic or matter. Make sure people participating in the event are proficient in the languages involved. Inform the translation agency about the language combination and whether a consecutive or simultaneous interpreter is needed.
Bear in mind that in certain circumstances like medical appointments, the person in need of an interpreter may feel more comfortable to speak with an interpreter of the same gender. Inform the agency and, if possible, they will certainly try to satisfy your needs so that sensitive information is properly handled.
- Working with an interpreter requires more time. The interpretation will take up some of the time scheduled for your meeting or event, so be sure to allow enough time for it to take place. This happens because during consecutive interpretation, the persons communicating speak, followed by the professional translation.
- Provide relevant materials and information in advance. Speak with your agency or interpreter before the appointment to solve any questions you may have. If possible, provide all relevant materials and content about the event in advance to allow the interpreter to prepare specific vocabulary and familiarize with the topic. If necessary, a non-disclosure agreement will be signed by the agency and interpreter to assure your information will remain confidential. Inform the agency or interpreter about any protocols and dress-code required for the event.
- Be aware of cultural differences among the speakers involved. Before the event takes place, ask the interpreter about cultural issues that may arise during the session such as greetings or other common differences. This way you can avoid uncomfortable situations and make sure you make the most of the meeting.
During the meeting
- Speak directly to the other party. Professional interpreters are trained to act as intermediaries between the parties involved. Doing so will speed up the conversation and improve accuracy.
- Be aware that everything you say will be interpreted. Avoid saying anything that you do not want the other party to hear. Similarly, remember that body language is a main part of communication. Try to make eye contact with the other party and place yourself face-to-face with them, if possible.
- Speak at a regular pace and allow pauses in your speech for the interpreter to work comfortably and the other party to follow timely. Be aware that the interpreter may ask you for clarification if any terms or expressions are unclear.
- Do not ask the interpreter any questions addressed directly towards them during the meeting regarding their opinion or subjective impressions about the other party. Professional foreign language and sign language interpreters are trained to avoid answering such questions during the meeting. Such interactions would confuse the other party and could potentially compromise communication.
After the meeting
After the appointment or meeting, interpreters are not usually required to do any sort of reporting or follow-up service unless required in advance. However, if you were satisfied with your interpreter, it is always a good idea to thank them in person and to inform the translation agency about it. Kindness is an international language. If it did not go so well, constructive feedback is always welcome and will help us improve. If you particularly enjoyed the experience with a specific interpreter, you can request the agency to work with them next time. We will be happy to arrange the same interpreter for you if their availability permits so.
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