Conference Interpreter

Fluency in both source and target languages is the result of thorough preparation (specific terminology, technical vocabulary, general knowledge) as well as substantial experience in the three main styles of interpreting:

Simultaneous conference interpreting for international organisations, European institutions, international businesses, SMEs and associations.

Consecutive interpreting on stage at film festivals, book fairs, award ceremonies, training courses, interviews and press conferences.

Whispering during site visits, trade shows, training courses, gala dinners and sporting events.



 

Simultaneous Interpretation

Description
Real-time spoken translation. The interpreter's translation is just a heartbeat behind the speaker's voice.

Equipment
The meeting room has a sound system; the delegates wear headsets to hear the translation; the interpreter uses a mike and may or may not be in a sound-proofed booth.

The audience
The entire audience gets the message at practically the same time – in the source language from the speaker and in the target language from the interpreter.
Everyone in the room is on the same page.
 
The interpreter
The interpreter is physically present – either in the room or in a booth overlooking the room – and can thus soak up the atmosphere and truly convey the spirit of each presentation as well as its content.
Yet the interpreter's role is an invisible one. Far from being an obstacle between speaker and listener, the interpreter provides a seamless communication channel.

Consecutive Interpretation

Description
The speaker delivers a snatch of text. The interpreter then delivers it in another language. It therefore takes twice the time.

Equipment
The speaker's voice and the interpreter's voice must be audible by the attendees. This may or may not require a sound system, depending on the size of the room and the number of people in the audience.
 
The audience
Speaker and interpreter perform a duet. With a reasonably short snatch of text, neither language group will feel left out or left behind.
 
The interpreter
The interpreter shares the stage - and can even take the starring role, in a workshop situation for example, or a training session where constant two-way communication is the order of the day.

Whispering

Description
If only one or two people need translation, the interpreter can sit within whispering distance and interpret exclusively for them, simultaneously.

Equipment
The delegates' ears and the interpreter's voice! The speaker's voice must come over loud and clear, however, so that the interpreter can hear it whilst delivering the translation.

The audience
Whispering works for one, two or occasionally 3 people depending on the circumstances. Those listening to the interpreter must keep their ears wide open, which can prove tiring over any length of time.

The interpreter
The interpreter's role is restricted to interaction with the 1 or 2 delegates in question. The interpreter must speak loud enough to be heard by those concerned without disturbing the others – quite a balancing act.