INTERPRETING
“If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart.“
Nelson Mandela (1918 to 2013).
South African anti-apartheid activist and President.
Languages
Given her excellent knowledge of the languages and cultures of Germany and France, Birthe mainly works in these two languages. In multilingual or less formal situations (such as visits, trade fairs, etc.) Birthe can also offer interpreting services in English.
She can forward enquiries for other languages to trusted colleagues who are also members of the French translators’ association: the SFT.
What types of work does Birthe do?
As an interpreter, she can work in the following situations, for example:
INTERNATIONAL TRADE FAIRS – CONFERENCES AND LECTURES – BUSINESS AND CULTURAL TOURS – BUSINESS NEGOTIATIONS – FOREIGN TRIPS – RECEPTION OF DELEGATIONS
Birthe is devoted to respecting the strictest confidentiality and discretion in whatever work she undertakes.
Techniques
Depending on the situation, size and financial scope of the event, various interpreting techniques can be offered:
Consecutive Interpreting
The interpreters take turns with the speakers and translate back and forth between two languages. This is quite time-intensive, since the conversation is interrupted again and again.
Chuchotage
A speech, presentation, etc. is translated by whispering to foreign-language participants. A time- and equipment-saving method, which, however, only works in one language direction and means that the listener can only have a passive role.
Online interpreting
This technique has developed in line with the proliferation of video conferencing tools. An interpreting channel (or several channels) is set up (e.g. on Zoom) so that everyone can follow directly in their chosen language. With many online conferencing tools this function is provided as part of the standard version, so there are no additional costs.
A more “classic” form of this technique is telephone interpreting.
Simultaneous Interpreting
This involves working in a booth, e.g. at large international conferences. It is rather complex in terms of technology and staffing, but saves time and offers everyone the opportunity to intervene directly in the conversation in their own language.
t.i.c Trad offers the first three above-mentioned techniques.
FAQ ABOUT INTERPRETING
How do you manage it?
The work of interpreters often inspires astonishment or even admiration due to its quick changes from one language to another and its precise and idiomatic rendering. Of course, a perfect command of both languages and the topics covered are prerequisites for this type of work. However, above and beyond their expertise, interpreters use a variety of techniques to ensure flawless performance and limit physical and mental strain. This includes precise terminological preparation, controlled use of the voice, note taking, the right pace, etc.
How can the success of an interpreting service be enhanced?
As the client, you can ensure a positive interpreting experience by…
How is the price of an interpreting service calculated
In general, a daily fee is charged for interpreting assignments. This covers the preparation by the interpreters, which can be quite extensive depending on the topic and situation. In addition, there may be some travel and accommodation costs as well as costs related to equipment rental.
For more advice on purchasing interpreting services, we recommend the guide “Interpreting. Getting it right.“ By the French translators’ association, the SFT
