Simultaneous Interpretation & Translation for Live Events

In the first of a series about different forms of language interpreting, we will take a look at the tasks involved in conference interpreting.

Conference interpreters work at conferences or large meetings that have non-English-speaking participants. Although their job can involve international business and diplomacy, conference interpreters work for any organization that deals with foreign language speakers.

Conference interpreting requires top-notch interpreters who generally have the ability to interpret from at least two second languages into their native language — for example, a native English speaker may interpret from Spanish and German into English. For some full-time positions, such as those with the United Nations, this qualification is mandatory.

Forms of Interpreting Services

Simultaneous Interpretation is performed at the time of (simultaneous to), the presentation. Usually rendered in a large conference setting, this type of interpreting service typically requires the use of special interpreting equipment.

Consecutive Interpreting is usually performed in smaller settings than conferences and allows the speaker to present a few sentences before pausing so the interpreter may render the interpretation into the other language.

Language interpreting carried out at conferences is often simultaneous; however, at some meetings with a small number of attendees, consecutive interpreting may be used. Usually, interpreters sit in soundproof booths, listening to the speakers through headphones and interpreting what is said into a microphone. The interpreted speech is then relayed to the listener through headsets. When interpreting is needed for only one or two people, the interpreter generally sits behind or next to the attendee and whispers an oral translation of the proceedings.

Whether your subject matter is legal, software, technology, engineering, manufacturing or medical related, make sure your translation services agency provides interpreters who will match your requirements and your specific needs.