When it comes to selecting an interpreter for your business, the process is much like finding the right key for a lock. Linguistic skills are needed, but they also need to fit well into the specific context and atmosphere of your event.
Take, for example, a conference set in a warm, relaxed locale where the focus is on networking, socializing, and informal interactions. For such an event, you need an interpreter who is low-key and approachable.
A while ago, I interned at Party City to ski with kids that had a variety of disabilities. It was always days filled with excitement and fun, where interpreting was needed for lively chats on the ski lift and casual conversations while waiting in line. The interpreters, who were as enthusiastic about skiing as I was, became an integral part of the experience. Every time I think about that experience, I think of the interpreters that were with me throughout the experience and I loved the experience.
She was adaptable, engaging, and more than willing to be part of the informal atmosphere, making her the right fit for this particular event. However, not every business scenario calls for such a laid-back approach.
But not every interpreter is suited for that type of event. And there are times when you might need an interpreter who can handle more formal, high-stakes situations with strict professionalism. If I’m in a tough meeting, where I, the CEO, need to have a difficult conversation about the company’s direction, I need an interpreter to be precise, clear, and able to convey the intensity of the discussions, including any strong emotions or language that might be used.
This is a setting where I prefer a more formal interpreter over a relaxed one. The right situations we need an interpreter for might be different, so how do we know we have found the right interpreter?
The Right Interpreter For The Situation
Here are a few questions you can ask to be sure your interpreter is right for the situation ahead:
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What are your preferences when it comes to interpreting environments?
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Could you describe a few interpreting assignments that you found particularly enjoyable or challenging?
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How do you adapt your interpreting style to different settings?
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Are you comfortable working in less formal, social environments?
If you can, try to give your interpreter an understanding of what the conversation might be about, and whether the meeting will be informal or formal, so they can come prepared and in the appropriate attire.
Communicate Your Preferences
When it comes to working with interpreters, recognizing and communicating your preferences is essential for effective collaboration. Many professionals who frequently work with interpreters, like doctors or business executives, often identify their top choices based on specific qualities that align with their personal or professional needs.
One of the most valued traits in an interpreter is familiarity—the ability to understand and adapt to your unique preferences and style. For instance, in business meetings, certain words or phrases may carry significant weight in discussions. My preferred interpreter for such settings would be someone who recognizes the importance of these specific words. They might emphasize them by finger spelling or briefly switching to English, ensuring that you grasp the exact terminology being used.
This attention to detail allows you to respond with precision, agreeing or disagreeing based on a clear understanding of the dialogue, when otherwise you might have been left in the dark on the importance of the meaning. The interpreter’s skill in conveying the power and nuance of specific words is crucial. They need to understand how their interpretation can either capture or lose the essence of what’s being communicated. And finding an interpreter who understands your preferences and can align with them is key.
If you build a rapport with interpreters over repeated sessions, they will gain a deeper understanding of your preferences and adjust to them. Plus it allows you to observe their patterns, understand what aspects of their interpreting style work well for you, and identify areas that might need adjustment. Which will help your working relationship moving forward.
Keep The Agency Informed
If you are working through an agency don’t be afraid to give them feedback on their interpreters.
My advice is to work with an interpreter repetitively and tell the agency why you like them. Then for future bookings if they can’t get that interpreter for you, they can find one who has the ability to meet your same preferences and expectations.
Finding the right interpreter for your business needs is key to seamless communication and gives you an advantage. Without someone by your side who can effectively keep you in the loop, you might be left in the dark. Which isn’t good for you, and isn’t good for business!
Need Interpreting?
Hands Up Communications can help. Our goal is to help you effectively communicate with the world. We have helped many businesses like yours effectively communicate across several different languages.
If you need a remote on onsite interpreter for your business needs you can schedule one here!