Modes of Interpretation

The modes of interpretation is something most clients do not understand when making requests for their conferences. When requesting for interpretation services, it is valuable to understand exactly what is necessary for your specific engagement.

Consecutive mode of interpretation - Interpreter interprets after speaker speaks a complete thought or a paragraph.

In a consecutive form of interpretation, the interpreter will sit close to the delegates during the speech or presentation.  The interpreter allows the speaker to speak about 1-5 minutes. When the speaker pauses or finishes a complete thought, the interpreter will then deliver the speech into the target language. This form of interpretation is often utilized during a board meeting that requires participation of all the attendees through discussions.

Simultaneous mode of interpretation - Interpreter interprets at the same time as the speaker.

In a simultaneous mode of interpretation, interpreters will utilize transmitters, which allows them to listen to the speech from the meeting or a conference through their headsets. The interpreter will then relay the message into the target language through a microphone at the same time as the speaker. The delegation attendees will listen through their receivers and headset. This is usually the preferred form of interpretation that is vastly utilized during long conferences. It is also the form of interpretation utilized in international organizations like the UN.

During simultaneous interpretation, interpreters often work in a team of two.

This is due to strain in the concentration level after 30 minutes of interpretation. Research has shown that the error of the subject worsens after 30 minutes  One research likened the stress level to be greater than a neurosurgeon's experience while operating. The interpreters will switch off with their partner to ensure that the quality of the target language is as accurate to the original message of the speaker.  International agencies like the UN and Europaean commissions have a policy to rotate the interpreters every 30 minutes.

I like to tell my clients that a good interpreter speaks 3 languages fluently - their native language, target language, and the subject matter of the meeting. The best interpreter speaks and understands four languages- their native language, target language, the subject matter of the meeting, and the humanitarian understanding of the distinct cultures. The best and the worst of the interpreters can help make or break a multi-million dollar deal in a business setting and can even bring peace or war between two countries.

"It was important for me to have taken the training at PSOW to help others to fluently speak the cross-cultural language and be pursued as the best sought after professional in their field."

Grace Schiffner

2015 PSOW Graduate of Train to be a Corporate Etiquette and International Protocol Consultant and General Operations Manager at www.iinterpret.com