Interpreting for meetings – getting the best from your interpreters

Your interpreters are viewed as representatives of your organisation; and they will want you to achieve your aims. Help them do so as follows:

1    Arranging interpreters

  • Book them as soon as possible. The best interpreters are much in demand.
  • Tell the interpreters, or the company you book them through, clearly about the venue, schedule and likely duration of the proceedings.

2    Briefing

  • Tell them in detail about:
    • the subject matter of the conference, seminar, court case or meeting;
    • the people attending and their background;
    • the hoped-for result.
  • Let them have any relevant material – presentations, records previous meetings, emails.
  • Look on us as part of your team and take us into your confidence. This way we can ensure our interpreters are fully briefed.

3    Conduct of meeting

  • Allow time before the meeting to welcome your interpreters, introduce them to your colleagues, review the briefing material and check their grasp of your objectives.
  • Schedule some breaks. Interpreting is a high pressure intellectual activity. Pauses of 15 minutes every 1-2 hours will keep your interpreters focussed.

Remember, professional interpreters spend many years studying for their qualifications, and probably several hours getting ready for your assignment. Show them respect and they will work even harder for you.

Topics: Export Planning, Management, and Sales & Marketing
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