Top skills any interpreter needs to master
We at PRO Interpreting Canada have worked with numerous interpreters. Over time, we’ve identified the core skills that make a great interpreter.
Here they are:
Punctuality - This one is pretty straightforward, so I don’t really need to get into too many details. A good interpreter will show early, at the right place, ready to begin interpreting immediately. Simple, but important. Showing up on time shows you respect the client's time and are prepared. It sets a professional tone for the interpreting session. Being punctual also allows the interpreter time to set up any equipment, meet participants, and get into the right mindset.
Memory - The memory of an interpreter is an amazing thing, but the best interpreters don’t develop it overnight. Thousands of hours of study and rehearsal go into making that memory the wonder that it is. Interpreters heavily utilize short-term memory, and just like a muscle, short-term memory can develop greater endurance through consistent practice. Teams of conference interpreters are not unlike runners in a relay race, passing the baton of information seamlessly between one another! Memory is key for recalling specialized terminology and being able to accurately interpret complex concepts.
Discipline - A truly disciplined professional interpreter will know when and what to study and how best to maintain his or her skills. Refraining from allowing personal biases to affect an interpretation also requires great attention to detail and sense of discipline. Discipline enables an interpreter to consistently provide high quality interpretation despite challenges. Self-discipline promotes continuing education, skill development, and preparation for assignments.
Ethics - This is an often overlooked, but vital skill for any interpreter. Interpreter ethics include such important pillars as confidentiality, respect, and knowledge of one’s limitations. Ethics guide the interpreter to act in a professional, principled manner. Adhering to a clear ethical code builds trust between interpreter, clients, and colleagues. Ethics keep the interpreter focused on facilitating communication rather than inserting personal views.
Tools - Any great interpreter will have tools available at his or her disposal to facilitate a smooth interpretation experience for the customer. Commonly used tools include a computer to complete necessary research, a subject specific bilingual dictionary, and a notebook and pen to take notes. A proper pre-session is a tool many interpreters will utilize to make a smooth experience for everyone involved. Having the right tools shows preparation and professionalism. Tools like glossaries and terminology databases aid accuracy and consistency.
Cultural Competency - Language and culture are inextricable, so it’s extremely important that any interpreter be well-versed in the culture of both interpreted languages. There are certain times when cultural differences are more notable, and these are when a great interpreter will really shine. Humor and symbolic language can be difficult, and cultural differences may be more pronounced in topics such as mental health, and palliative care. Understanding cultural context ensures accurate interpretation. Cultural knowledge facilitates interpreting nuance and subtle meaning.
Style - In my opinion, if you’re going to do something well, you’ve got to have style. It’s what separates being good and being excellent. For me, an interpreter with style is one that has a really clear rhythm and sense of delivery. Experience can play a huge role in this skill. Anyone who’s ever used an interpreter can tell you the importance of clear delivery and rhythm. Choppy, broken speech is difficult to understand in any language, so the best interpreters will strive to deliver the message in the same tones, inflections, and rhythms and the original speaker. An interpreter's style puts clients at ease and makes interpretation flow smoothly. Style and confidence set the professional interpreter apart.
Perseverance - Interpreting can be mentally exhausting work. The ability to stay focused under pressure and push through fatigue requires determination. Perseverance enables interpreters to maintain accuracy and composure even during long, demanding assignments.
Teamwork - Many interpreters work closely with partners and colleagues. Cooperation, support, and coordination with fellow interpreters are key. Teamwork allows seamless handoffs, pooled knowledge resources, and shared problem-solving. A teamwork mentality improves the interpreting process.
These core skills are what separate the best interpreters from the rest. Consistently developing punctuality, memory, discipline, ethics, utilizing tools, understanding culture, and honing one's style is how an interpreter masters their craft. With dedication to improving these skills, an interpreter positions themselves for success and shows commitment to their profession.
