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| There are a number of jobs where linguistic skills are an advantage and even an important attribute, such as working on a reception desk to working with foreign diplomats. Interpreting concerns the spoken word. The normal rule is that interpreters convert spoken statements from another language into their own mother tongue. |
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There are several forms of interpreting:- simultaneous interpreting is used at multi language international conferences and meetings, at which the interpreter sits in a sound proof booth (one for each conference language). They listen via headphones to speeches in the source language (i.e. German) and immediately interpret in to the target language (i.e. English). |
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Consecutive interpreting is used for small meetings where simultaneous interpretation is not justified. Instead of interpreting at the same time, the interpreter waits until the speaker has finished and with the aid of notes and memory, repeats what has been said in another language. Consecutive interpretation is usually provided for a maximum of three languages. Simultaneous and consecutive interpreting together are known as conference interpreting. Liaison interpreting is for conversations between two or more people who speak different languages. Interpreting takes place after each person speaks. |
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| Conference interpreting involves a great deal of travelling and meeting a variety of people. Liaison and public service interpreting may involve work in local government offices, hospitals, immigration centres, law courts, prisons, factories, industrial and commercial premises. |  |
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Interpreting and translating agencies normally fill the needs of their clients by hiring freelance interpreters. Due to the limited opportunities available, interpreters often do other work such as translating or teaching. Liaison and public service interpreters gradually build up contacts with clients. The National Register of Public Service Interpreters provides details of qualified and experienced public service interpreters to enable health or local authorities, police and other organisations to find a suitable interpreter easily. In the interpreting departments of international organisations there may be the possibility of promotion to senior interpreter or head of department. |
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For freelance interpreters, advancement involves increasing the number of clients and the frequency of engagements, and commanding higher fees relating to increasing skill and experience. A small number of interpreters move into teaching full-time on degree or postgraduate courses, or into administrative posts with international organisations. |
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Further related career opportunities using foreign language skills include translating journalism, foreign correspondent, and tourist guide with further career opportunities in teaching. To be an interpreter you should have a clear and coherent speaking voice with the ability to manipulate language in skilful way, where needed to interpret unusual words and phrases from one language to another. After gaining a high proficiency in Languages, usually via a degree course, interpreters can take a post-graduate diploma or masters degree in interpreting. A first degree course includes training in interpreting and translating. The important factor is language fluency and the speed and accuracy with which it can be used. In addition the Institute of Linguists offers a post-graduate qualification – The Diploma in Translation. |
For further information on language courses, please contact your local college or careers service.
This article appears with thanks to Calderdale
College and first appeared in the Halifax Courier.
| For further information please see: |
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Interpreter |
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Teacher: Modern Language |
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Translator |
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Teacher of English as a Foreign Language |
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