Live interpreting is a skilled service that allows people to communicate relatively smoothly despite the language barrier. A good interpreter will find ways to convey the terms and their intended meaning, but also to take into account emotions and cultural differences (which is why AI is so rubbish at it!).
But interpreters can face some delicate situations...
Rudeness
Interpreters are impartial. Their job is to interpret whatever you say as faithfully as possible. It can be quite unconfortable to translate insults, emotions such as anger or sadness. Imagine how the interpreters facilitating a conversation involving the likes of president Trump or Putin must feel ! This is a very literal case of "don't shoot the messenger"!
Humour
Humour, and more specifically wordplays and tongue twisters, are unlikely to translate very well. If you're looking for a way to lighten the atmosphere, prefer body language hints such as smiling or simple jokes, and avoid double-entendre.
I was once asked to interpret a joke from French into English at an evening function. The attempt from the French party to be friendly and funny turned into a room full of puzzled looks and awkward laughs, and I ended explaining that he was telling a well-intended joke with an untranslatable pun!
Pace
Simultaneous interpreters are naturally a little behind the speaker - a phenomenon known as "decalage". That is because, rather than interpret word for word like a machine, they let the meaning of a phrase or sentence unfold so they can convey exactly what the speaker intended to say. Don't stop every few words as that wouldn't work, but it pays to give them a moment to catch their breath by marking a slight pause in between ideas. Think of it as a marathon rather than a sprint.
Sound
It goes without saying that a clear sound and minimal background noise is essential to allow the interpreter to hear what the speaker says. Soundproof booths such as the ones you see in government or conference auditoria are the perfect environment. For smaller set-ups or online meetings, you might need to be more aware of your surrounding. Chose a quiet room, make sure the doors and windows are closed. For Remote Simultaneous Interpreting, use a headset with integrated microphone, make sure your internet connection is up to the job and take the time to set up your Zoom ahead of the meeting.
Duration
Simultaneous interpreting is a very intensive cognitive process. The concentration required to listen, analyse, translate and talk at the same time can only last so long. It is generally agreed that interpreters work in pairs and switch approximately every 30 minutes. Anything beyond that and you'll see a decline in the quality of the interpreting. Fair enough.
Want to know more? You can download the free Guide to talking through an interpreter.
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