yndigo

Top 5 tips to getting the best interpreter

1. Don’t wait until the last minute: The best interpreters fill their schedules weeks in advance. If an agency magically offers you a stellar interpreter for a last-minute assignment, be circumspect and DON’T skip the next four items.
2. Listen for key questions from the agency: To provide the right interpreter, the translation agency needs some important information.
• “What will be discussed?” An interpreter may be perfectly bilingual yet not at all conversant in your case. What subjects will be discussed? How in-depth will it be?
• “Is there a dialect issue?” Depending on the foreign language, a dialect or regional difference will be important for the agency to know.
• “What is the forum?” Deposition? Client meeting? Conference? An interpreter may be comfortable in one setting and not another depending on their experience.
• “Can you send reference material?” Your agency should ask for this. Provide it even if they don’t ask. Subject specific materials, especially dual language documents, help the interpreter prepare in advance and hit the ground running on assignment day.
3. Request a resume: An interpreter can make or break an important meeting. Assess their credentials for yourself. Your agency should provide the interpreter’s resume even if the name and contact information are concealed.
4. Set up an interview: Ask to have the interpreter call you, or if time permits, meet you in person. This allows you to assess their English and their professional manner.
5. Get terms in writing: Your agency should furnish a written quotation detailing who, where, when and how much, including premiums for overtime, travel, and lodging if applicable.