What Interpreters Need For Peak Performance

Documents. Accurate and complete interpretation requires background material: PowerPoint files, PDFs, publications/brochures, videos, speeches, presentations, and information about the speakers and presenters, including names and bios. Some information about the audience may also be helpful. Interpreters study these documents to familiarize themselves with the content, and add notes to ensure higher-quality interpretation during the event. If they do not have the opportunity to review these documents prior to the presentation, the interpretation might not be as accurate as it could be.

Equipment:

Booth. A well-lit, well-ventilated booth is essential for the conference interpretation to proceed smoothly.

Console and Headphones. The interpreters need a high-quality interpretation console to adjust the volume as necessary, along with light, comfortable headphones providing them with good sound.

Microphones for All Speakers. Microphones should be provided to all who may take the floor – speakers, moderators, panelists, and audience members who may ask questions or make comments.

Microphone Usage. In the case of a roundtable or panel discussion, where each attendee has a microphone in front of them, it is extremely important that only the microphone of the person speaking is turned on. When a microphone is active for someone who does not have the floor, interpreters can hear background noise (private conversation, coughing, rustling paper, etc.), which affects the ability of the interpreter to focus.

Booth Placement. If a booth is placed behind the stage, the interpreters need two monitors: one that remains set on the speaker, and another one that displays PowerPoint presentations, videos, or other material.

Testing. All interpretation-related equipment must be carefully and thoroughly tested immediately prior to the beginning of an event. Backup equipment (batteries, spare microphones, etc.) should be readily available.

Logistics:

Travel. If interpreters are required to travel to the event location, it is best to arrange non-stop travel for them to avoid the chance of delays and unnecessary fatigue, which may prevent them from working to the best of their ability. Non-direct travel can be disastrous in that it may delay professional staff critical to the success of a long-planned event.

Accommodations/Hotel Rooms. If possible, it is best to have the interpreters stay at the same venue where the event will be held, or as close as possible to the conference site.

Speakers. Speakers should be reminded that their speech or presentation will be interpreted, both while preparing their presentation and immediately prior to taking the floor. Their pace is critical to accuracy and completeness, as is the avoidance, where possible, of off-script comments (slang, jargon or colloquialisms). Speakers should also remember that jokes, double-entendre, proverbs, etc., may not translate well into a different language and culture.