Making the Most of Your Interpretation Session
Whether it's your first time working with an interpreter or you're a seasoned professional, these five tips will help ensure smooth, effective communication every time.
1. Speak Directly to the Person, Not the Interpreter
Always address the person you're communicating with directly. Say "How are you feeling today?" rather than "Ask her how she's feeling." This maintains the personal connection and shows respect.
2. Use Short, Clear Sentences
Break your speech into manageable chunks. Pause after every 2-3 sentences to allow the interpreter to convey your message accurately. Avoid jargon when possible, or explain technical terms.
3. Allow Extra Time
Interpreted conversations naturally take longer than monolingual ones. Schedule appointments with additional time — typically 1.5x to 2x the normal duration — to avoid feeling rushed.
4. Brief the Interpreter Beforehand
If possible, provide the interpreter with context about the meeting: the topic, any specialized vocabulary that may come up, and the desired outcome. This helps them prepare and deliver a more accurate interpretation.
5. Provide Written Materials in Advance
Share any documents, forms, or agendas with the interpreter before the meeting. This allows them to familiarize themselves with the content and research any specialized terminology.
Bonus: Trust Your Interpreter
Professional interpreters are trained, certified, and bound by strict codes of ethics. Trust their expertise, and don't hesitate to ask them for clarification if something seems unclear during the conversation.