What to Expect During a Professional Interpretation Session
Understanding the Professional Interpretation Process
Whether you're preparing for a business meeting, medical appointment, legal proceeding, or conference with participants who speak different languages, professional interpretation services ensure effective communication across language barriers. We believe that knowing what to expect during an interpretation session helps all participants maximize the benefits of our services.
Types of Interpretation Services
Before discussing what to expect, it's important to understand the different interpretation services we offer:
Consecutive Interpretation
In consecutive interpretation, the interpreter listens while a speaker delivers their message, takes notes, and then delivers the interpretation when the speaker pauses. This approach works well for one-on-one or small group settings such as medical appointments, interviews, or business meetings.
Simultaneous Interpretation
During simultaneous interpretation, the interpreter translates in real-time as the speaker is talking, with minimal delay. This method is ideal for conferences, large meetings, and events where continuous flow is essential. It typically requires specialized equipment like headsets and booths.
Sight Translation
This involves the immediate verbal translation of written documents. Our interpreters can quickly review written materials and provide verbal translations during your session.
Before Your Interpretation Session
Preparation is Key
To ensure a successful interpretation session, we recommend:
Providing context materials - Share agenda items, presentation slides, technical terminology, or background documents with us at least 48 hours in advance
Clarifying goals - Let us know the purpose of your meeting and any specific outcomes you hope to achieve
Confirming logistics - Verify the date, time, duration, location, and required equipment
Discussing specialized terminology - Alert us to any industry-specific or technical terms that may arise
At PRO Interpreting Canada, we carefully match interpreters to your specific needs based on language pair, subject expertise, and the nature of your session.
During Your Interpretation Session
Initial Introductions
Your interpreter will:
Arrive 15–30 minutes early to set up and meet with participants
Introduce themselves and explain their role
Review any last-minute materials or concerns
Establish positioning for optimal hearing and visibility
Professional Protocols
During the session, our interpreters follow established protocols to ensure accuracy and professionalism:
Speaking in first person - The interpreter will use "I" when interpreting what each speaker says, rather than "he says" or "she says"
Maintaining confidentiality - All information shared during the session remains strictly confidential
Interpreting everything - Our interpreters convey all spoken content without omitting, adding, or modifying information
Cultural mediation - When necessary, interpreters may briefly explain cultural nuances that might affect understanding
Requesting clarification - If something is unclear, the interpreter may ask for repetition or clarification to ensure accuracy
Pace and Flow
To optimize communication:
The interpreter may signal speakers to pause if needed
For complex or technical content, speakers may be asked to break information into smaller segments
Participants should speak directly to each other, not to the interpreter
Allow extra time for interpreted communication, as it naturally extends the duration of conversations
After Your Interpretation Session
Following your session, PRO Interpreting Canada provides:
A brief debrief if requested
Follow-up on any unresolved terminology questions
Documentation of the service provided
Opportunity for feedback on the interpretation quality
Assistance scheduling future sessions if needed
How PRO Interpreting Canada Ensures Quality
Our commitment to excellence includes:
Rigorous interpreter selection - All our interpreters are professionally certified with relevant subject-matter expertise
Continuous professional development - Our team regularly updates their skills and knowledge
Quality assurance protocols - We monitor and evaluate interpretation quality through client feedback and peer review
Ethical standards - Our interpreters adhere to strict professional codes of ethics and conduct
Technical reliability - For remote or equipment-dependent interpretation, we utilize high-quality, reliable technology
PRO Interpreting Canada, is committed to breaking down language barriers with professional, accurate, and culturally sensitive interpretation services. Whether you need interpretation for a medical appointment, legal proceeding, business negotiation, or international conference, we provide the expertise you need for successful multilingual communication.
Contact us today at prointerpretingcanada.com to learn more about our services and how we can support your interpretation needs.
FAQs
1. How far in advance should I book an interpreter?
We recommend booking interpretation services at least 2 weeks in advance for standard languages and 3–4 weeks for rare language pairs. However, we understand that urgent needs arise, and we strive to accommodate last-minute requests whenever possible. For large events or conferences requiring multiple interpreters, 1–2 months' notice is ideal.
2. Should I speak differently when using an interpreter?
Speak naturally, but be mindful of pace. Use clear language and avoid complex idioms or colloquialisms that may be difficult to translate accurately. Pause regularly to allow for interpretation, especially during consecutive interpretation. Direct your attention to the person you're communicating with, not the interpreter.
3. How does remote interpretation differ from in-person services?
Remote interpretation (via video or telephone) follows the same professional standards as in-person interpretation but requires additional technical preparation. Participants need reliable internet connections, appropriate software platforms, and sometimes headsets. We provide technical guidance and testing before remote sessions to ensure smooth communication.
4. What information should I provide before my interpretation session?
To achieve the best results, share the purpose of the meeting, participant names and roles, agenda items, relevant documents, specialized terminology, and any sensitive topics that might arise. This preparation enables our interpreters to research terminology and background information specific to your needs.
5. How do I know if my interpreter is qualified for my specific needs?
At PRO Interpreting Canada, we match interpreters to assignments based on their language proficiency, subject expertise, and professional certifications. Our interpreters specialize in various fields including healthcare, legal, business, education, and technical sectors. We are transparent about our interpreters' qualifications and happy to discuss specific requirements for your session.
