Simultaneous Interpreting

Simultaneous interpreting is something that is very in demand in terms of skills. Being bilingual or multilingual is sought after but once an interpreter or translator is well versed in interpreting, they may be able to do simultaneous interpretation.

Consecutive interpreting is very common. The interpreter attends an event and most people are prepared that the speech or presentation will take twice as long as it would if it were only given in one language. Because there is the need to stop and allow the interpreter to speak, it can take time. Interpreting either at consecutive or simultaneous intervals is challenging and a professional is needed but especially in simultaneous interpreting is it necessary that very seasoned or experienced interpreters are needed.

In a situation where simultaneous needs exist for interpretation, it’s often because only a small group of an audience (such as a few or even just one person) needs interpreting. In this case, the interpreter will typically be off to one side whispering or talking in a low voice to the small audience while the main presenter speaks at their regular pace. This can be challenging to ensure that nothing is missed. These services can be pricier than consecutive interpreting.

Looking for information on consecutive interpreting and other resources?

Sometimes when you watch a television presentation you see a picture in picture interpreter or subtitles listed. This is often done for the hearing impaired or where a secondary language is needed to be interpreted. In bilingual countries such as Canada, the norm is a consecutive interpretation where the presenter or an interpreter that does a voice over interpretation speaks in English and then French or vice versa.

Sometimes in simultaneous interpretation, special equipment is needed or the interpreter stays in an auditory booth. Putting headphones on where they hear the speaker and speak while the speaker is talking is common. Sometimes simultaneous interpretation happens with a tape recorder too where the interpreter will record and rewind in case they miss something but still aim to be as simultaneous as possible.

When looking for either simultaneous or consecutive offerings in the world of interpreting, it’s a good idea to ask for credentials and a sample if possible of the person’s work. The person may have a video taped conference that shows you their abilities. Using someone for the first time at a crucial conference is probably not recommended unless you have back up recorded equipment.

For those who are interpreters and want to begin working in the highly sought after simultaneous market, they will often take workshops and do plenty of practice by watching international videos or television and recording their interpreting. This can help them see whether or not they are ready to do a live simultaneous interpretation and can help them build speed and accuracy.

Anyone that is a novice interpreter generally works on consecutive translations prior to moving to simultaneous. Because you need to be very skilled in this area, it can be years before a professional interpreter is experienced and confident enough to try simultaneous interpreting.

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