Interpreting
Growth in interpreting is a result of the expansion of the EU, and as public services in the UK increasingly see community languages as an equal opportunities issue.
A Diploma in Interpreting (or equivalent) is normally required in order to become a member of one or both of the professional associations for individuals, the Institute of Linguists and the Institute of Translation and Interpreting.
Interpreting the spoken words of others at conferences and meetings, especially in the political arena is the daily work of the interpreter. At the highest level you could be working for a head of state where any mistranslation could have serious consequences. Most jobs are not this intense, but as an interpreter, you are always under pressure to combine accuracy with speed.
There are two types of interpreting – simultaneous interpreting requires the interpreter to work in a soundproof booth translating instantaneously so that delegates at a meeting or conference receive a real-time account of what is being said in a language they understand. Consecutive interpreting is used for smaller meetings, discussions between individuals, politicians or journalists and the interpreter gives an accurate account of what a speaker has said immediately after they have spoken. A refinement of consecutive interpreting is whispered interpreting where there is perhaps only one person at a meeting who does not speak the same language as everyone else and the interpreter gives a whispered translation to that person.
Because of the very different nature of contact, interpreters can expect to travel frequently. They need to work well with people in groups and on a one-to-one level, be presentable and quick-thinking.
Case studies
Take a look at our language specific case studies.
View our BSL profile if you are interested in British Sign Language interpreting.
For further support, browse our advice on finding a course, and links to professional associations.
Links
If you have ever wondered whether you have what it takes to become an interpreter, Routes into Languages can show you how many skills and abilities are involved. Clicking on the underlined skills will take you to a range of interactive exercises with images, audio or video clips of interpreters in action. Get involved by visiting the National Network for Interpreting website.
Earlier this year the European Commission held an open day where visitors were able to try interpretation. It also featured staff interpreters demonstrating the profession.
Click here to view the short video of the open day on You Tube (opens new window).