What does interpreting involve?
Interpreters are not the same as translators. Translation professionals work with written text, whereas interpreters work with the spoken word.
Official interpreters must be fluent in at least two languages, be confident linguists, have a thorough understanding of both cultures, and, most importantly, master the art of interpreting. You can opt for a dpsi course to earn a certificate. Working as an interpreter can require working under duress, travelling, last-minute call-outs, and working outside of regular business hours. But don't let this deter you; the joy of interpreting will more than compensate for it.
How to become an interpreter?
There are Different ways for professionals to become an interpreter. To help you become an interpreter, try one or more of the following methods:
1) Attend university:
You need a bachelor's degree in translation and interpreting, languages and interpretation, interpreting studies, or a closely related field. You can pursue a postgraduate degree in one of these subjects if you already hold a bachelor's degree.
2) Gain experience:
Look for an internship, volunteer position, or entry-level job in interpretation. If you start as an interpreter, you might find it easier to get experience by working for local governments or other organisations offering community interpretation services. Community interpreters assist those who do not speak the official or prevalent language of the area in understanding local or government services.
3) Apply for jobs:
Send your resume to companies that are hiring translators. If you have a non-language degree but are competent in English and a foreign language, you can apply for interpreting employment directly. Look for entry-level or associate interpreter roles that are available. Examine each job's experience and education requirements before applying with an updated resume and cover letter.
4) Earn a certificate or diploma:
Earn a diploma or certificate in interpretation studies or a similar field. The Chartered Institute of Linguists (CIOL) offers a variety of interpretation training courses. A Diploma in Public Service Interpreting, a Certificate in Languages for Business, a Diploma in Police Interpreting, and a Certificate in Bilingual Skillsa are all available through CIOL. You can choose a dpsi course to get a better understanding.
Career options for interpreters and types of interpreting:
1) Conference interpreters:
Conference interpreters can be hired as in-house staff interpreters by prominent international organisations like the UN and EU. They can be freelancers working at significant global events and conferences, political events, European works council meetings, or trade fairs. Simultaneous interpreting is the most common style of interpreting utilised in conferences. In an interpreting booth, the interpreter collaborates with a colleague. The meeting's speaker speaks into a microphone, and the interpreter instantly relays the message to the delegates in their target language via a microphone.
2) Medical interpreters:
These interpreters assist patients in communicating with doctors, nurses, and other medical personnel in the healthcare environment. They must have a thorough understanding of medical terminology and be fluent in both languages.
3) Business interpreters:
Business interpreters assist business personnel in meetings, training sessions, negotiations, and other company events. They are a hybrid form, as conference interpreters or public service interpreters sometimes undertake this work. The primary type of interpreting used for business interpreting is consecutive interpreting. It is where the interpreter sits with the delegates and listens to the whole speech and then renders it into the participants' language.
4) On the GO interpreters:
These interpreters accompany foreign visitors to the UK or UK nationals travelling overseas. In both formal and informal contexts, they must be able to interpret.
5) Public service interpreters:
Public service interpreters work in several settings, which broadly fall into two categories: Police and court interpreters work in a legal setting in various environments, including translating for police interviews, attending court hearings, and assisting the prison system. This type of employment frequently necessitates substantial training and screening.
Conclusion:
In practice, no two days in the life of an interpreter are ever the same. The range of themes is incredible, the tasks are frequently intriguing, and you're constantly out and about meeting new people. By translating what is being said into another language, interpreters enable people to have a voice and be heard. It's a rewarding experience to assist others in communicating.
