A common misconception is that anyone who speaks more than one language is automatically a language interpreter or translator. In reality, interpreters are trained professionals equipped to create accurate and contextualized translations to best serve the people they are working with.
What is the difference between a translator and an interpreter?
There is a difference between translators and interpreters—translators translate written content, while interpreters translate language orally.
Both need to understand the context and the content that is being communicated to accurately and clearly communicate the information.
In this blog, we will go over how someone becomes an interpreter, why it’s important to hire a professional interpreter, and how to know you’re hiring a good interpreter.
How does someone qualify to be an interpreter?
The minimum qualifications to become an interpreter are that someone must hold a high school diploma, be at least 18-years-old, prove that they’re bilingual through language proficiency testing, and complete the training to qualify for the professional interpreter training.
The training is a forty-hour course that can be done online or in person. It covers a code of ethics, mediation techniques, a language proficiency test and more. Once an interpreter becomes a certified interpreter, they can gain other certifications that will further equip them in their career. For example, they may get their legal interpretation certificate to interpret in a law setting.
As languages and needs develop, many language interpreters will also continue their education by taking courses and earning certificates so that they’re better equipped to provide services for their clients.
Why is it important to hire a professional language interpreter?
A professional translator can provide you with a service that you’re confident in. When you work with someone familiar with both languages but who isn’t familiar with the context of your content, you risk running into miscommunications that could be detrimental to your work.
How do I know I’m hiring a good interpreter?
A good interpreter is certified by a recognized organization. They speak both languages fluently and understand the context of what is being said—you don’t want to risk losing meaning or tone.
Other characteristics to look for include a good memory, a good reputation, and works well under pressure. You can learn more about knowing that you’re hiring a good interpreter in this blog.
Learn more
At Allied Interpreting, we provide both translation and interpreter services. We work with a wide variety of people from all over the world who are fluent in the languages you would need translation and interpretation services. We can connect you with the right person for your project through our extensive contact list.
Our services include Depositions, Trials, Medical Appointments, Mediation, Arbitration, Legal Documents, Publications, Contracts, and more. Whether you need a translator or an interpreter, we would be happy to connect you with a trained professional who can accommodate your needs. Please contact us today to further discuss your project.
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