This blog will discuss the need and meaning of interpreting services for any type of event be it a conference, summit, etc. One might be wondering about the different types of interpreting services available. Here we will discuss the differences between the simultaneous interpretation and consecutive interpretation, and which services should be employed when?
First of all, what refers to interpretation, and in which ways do interpretation and translation services differ from one another?
Both of these interpretation services convey information or message of brands from one language into the other preferred language. However, translation deals with static language, majorly in written form but sometimes involves recorded audio as well.
Furthermore, Interpretation, however, only deals with spoken language. The main job of an interpreter is to only focus on spoken words one time and does not have the option of playing them back from a recording. Interpreters can work in office spaces as in person or on the phone, through video, in one-on-one settings, or for large conferences, depending on the requirement.
Simultaneous Interpretation
Simultaneous interpretation caters to the need for large conferences or other similar events where large chunks of information need to be conveyed and information dissemination is done this way. In the process of simultaneous interpretation, the interpreter sits in a separate booth doing real-time interpretation by listening to the speaker through a headset. They sometimes work in pairs so that one can handle the interpretation work while one is taking a break.
They interpret concomitantly into a microphone that broadcasts the information to the audience members through wireless headsets. This is the type of interpretation used by the UN, for example.
In this type of interpretation, the speaker does not pause and continue translating without any interruption, which means that the interpreter must listen and speak at the same time without losing track of any important information. Simultaneous interpretation requires exhaustive training as well as knowledge of handling appropriate technical setup to ensure error-free quality results.
Sometimes, another form of interpretation is used, which an informal interpretation is called whisper interpretation. This process involves interpreters rendering the speech to an individual in a low pitch, more or less simultaneously as the speaker is talking. This could be appropriate when any foreign delegate wants to attend a conference or meeting not speaking and knowing the main language is the main problem. A consecutive interpreter generally works alone and interprets speech after the speaker has either paused or finished speaking.
Consecutive Interpretation
Consecutive interpretation is also a most sought interpretation and is used in a more conversational setting. Sometimes when the business discussion happens between the business professionals who do not speak the same language, in these settings there is a need for a consecutive business interpreter arises. The interpreter interprets the first person’s speech and then renders what they said into the other language. They do vice-versa, waiting for a response from the second business person and rendering that to the first language. This kind of interpreting requires rigorous professional training and deep expertise to deliver high-quality interpretation but is not as strenuous as simultaneous interpretation.
Depending on the settings, the length of speech segments may be longer or shorter. Certified and trained interpreters use techniques of note-making and can adopt other strategies to render longer segments of speech at one time.
Consecutive interpretation is also employed for phone interpretation, where the interpreter assists two persons in conveying messages to each other over the phone. Consecutive interpretation is best suited where a limited number of persons are involved like business meetings, interviews, diplomatic meet and press conferences, or any type of one-on-one discussion. The interpreter sits or stands near the people who are speaking with each other and does not use any special audio-video equipment because of the direct delivery of interpretation.
Like translators, professional interpreters are specialized in specific segments or industries, ensuring that they are knowledgeable about all necessary terminologies related to that industry. It is not necessary that an interpreter should work in their mother tongue but they may work in a combination of two or even more languages, depending on the situation. Most interpreters accompany a delegation on a business tour or a visit to a meeting or interview.
Certified Interpreters
There is no universal certification for types of interpreters. But individual countries and regions regulate their own certification standards.
What type of interpretation is best for your needs?
The form of interpretation will always depend upon the type and size of the event For instance, a consecutive interpreter caters their services in medical settings, court interpreting, interviews, HR meetings, and parent-teacher conferences, and on-site tours. Suitable for small meetings in a situation that allows for breaks in speech.
On the other hand, conferences with one speaker would hire a certified simultaneous interpreter, because there is a need for urgent and quick translations because of a large group. This form of interpretation is also necessary for settings where more than two languages are spoken like any international events, as well as during lectures, presentations where a lot of information needs to be interpreted to convey to a large group, and any other settings which demand quick data dissemination.
You may also like:
How Global Businesses Can Benefit From Legal Translation Services
Best Ways to Promote Your New Business
