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How to Work with an Interpreter

Oct 11, 2023

Interpreters convert speech from a source language into a target language orally.

At ABC Multilingua, we specialise in providing quality interpreting services, and we're here to guide you every step of the way.

Before the session
• Allow additional time for sessions with interpreters
• Provide the interpreter with as much information as possible about the appointment
• Ensure all meeting participants know how to use interpretation equipment if needed, especially for remote interpreting
• Confirm that the interpreter does not have any other role during the meeting

During the session
• Introduce all parties to one another and explain the interpreter's and your respective roles
• Talk directly to the language other than English speaker, not the interpreter
• Speak at a moderate pace and in a natural voice
• Pause after expressing a thought or statement to allow for interpretation
• Use plain language and avoid jargon and acronyms during the meeting
• Allow the interpreter to clarify information
• Remind all meeting participants:
- Everything communicated in the meeting will be interpreted
- Only one person speaks at a time
- Avoid asking the interpreter for their opinion or comments on the meeting's subject

After the session
• Consider debriefing with the interpreter after the client leaves
• Log the interpreter's attendance, the meeting's start and end time, and other key information
• Provide feedback where needed and make adjustments, if necessary, for future meetings with an interpreter
• Plan to get any necessary documents translated

For more information, email bookings@abcmultilingua.com.au, give us a call at (08) 8364 5255 or pop by our head office in Norwood.

We trust that by accessing our services you will find communicating as simple as ABC…

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