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home : interpretation : interpreter performance
Interpreter Performance
What should I expect from an interpreter?
An interpreter should arrive on time and be dressed professionally. The interpreter's language skills should be such that he/she can easily move from one language to another. An interpreter is a neutral party who simply repeats everything that is being said in both languages. The interpreter should carry a notebook and a pen and should be prepared to repeat everything every speaker says.
Will the interpreter interpret simultaneously?
During simultaneous interpretation the interpreter repeats the speaker's remarks while the speaker is talking. Simultaneous interpretation is a highly developed skill. Simultaneous interpreters are usually compensated for their talent at very high rates. Some interpreters do possess this skill and are willing to perform simultaneous interpretation at the contracted rates.
What is consecutive interpreting?
Consecutive interpreting means that someone speaks, then the interpreter repeats what has just been said. This may slow down the procedures but consecutive interpreting can be more valuable than simultaneous interpreting. Consecutive interpreting allows the listeners to hear and observe the tone and manner of the speaker even if they do not understand the words the speaker is using.
What does it mean if the interpreter claims to be "Certified"?
The term "Certified" causes a great deal of confusion and misinformation. There is no formally recognized process for certifying interpreters in this country. Some other countries do have this process. An interpreter claiming to be certified may have been certified in their country of origin.
Other reasons an interpreter may claim to be certified include:
- An association for professional translators called The American Translators Association (ATA), also certifies translators who successfully complete their testing process.
- The Federal Government offers a "certification" test for individuals wishing to interpret at Federal Court.
- Some degree programs and training programs at various schools across the country certify graduates of their programs.
What if someone objects to a particular interpreter?
On occasion an objection is raised about a particular interpreter. Investigation sometimes reveals that the objections are not truly rooted in that person's skill or ability. There are factions, religious differences, tribal differences, and so on, among some ethnic groups.
Complaints about an interpreter may be rooted in these differences. It is not always possible to accommodate individual preferences for interpreters. Interpreter work is based on the necessity for the interpreter to remain neutral and uninvolved.
Therefore, having an interpreter from a different group or faction than that of the person requiring an interpreter should have no bearing on the procedure.
At times, individuals object to certain interpreters as a ploy to avoid resolution of their case when things are not going the way they hope. At other times, an individual may feel embarrassed at having someone from their community become aware of their situation.
Interpreters are always given the name of the person requiring an interpreter. This allows the interpreter to decline an assignment for family members, friends, or for situations with which they may have some connection. When individuals do not wish to be recognized by an interpreter from their own community, an effort can be made to secure a different interpreter. It is not always possible to do this.
Next : Types of work
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