Don’ts of a Translator/Interpreter

In our translation bureau we pay a lot of attention to the level of preparation of out specialists. There are definite ways which none of the interpreters/translators is allowed to apply whyle performing:

• don’t give your opinion, unless of course you are asked;
• don’t put forth your ideas or agenda while performing;
• don’t interrupt the speaker in case of misunderstanding, etc.,, at least try to do it as little as possible;
• do not draw attention to yourself either by unusually loud (low, trembling) voice, broken language or inappropriate clothing;
• don’t stop speaking (interpreting) when arguments arise. Don’t exclude the one you are assigned to, from the conversation (i.e., a debate brakes out between several people and so you just wait until it is finished — excluding your client from involvement);
• don’t stay in the profession if it brings disappointment and dissatisfaction. Sometimes we make mistakes, applying for the wrong job, when interpretation turns to be not our calling. The best way-out is to correct a mistake and leave the job;
• don’t stop learning. Vocabulary is learned with practice opportunity and a desire to improve. But heart attitude is what undergirds it;
• don’t take a job that compromises you or your beliefs. You and your reputation are on the line. For example, if the client is corruptible, sells illegal products, conducts dishonest business, etc., choose to have nothing in common with it;
• don’t overcharge thinking you have a client in a desperate spot;
• don’t overestimate or underestimate your worth.
  

The interpreter, especially simultaneous one, should know about his right to have a rest through regular intervals. He is good in interpretation only for 20 minutes, then his skills diminish as his attention decreases dramatically. He needs a break, because the symptoms of being tired are vivid: he begins to hesitate, makes simple mistakes, picks at his clothes, his eyes start to stare questioningly and he becomes blank, starts to stammer and apologize that he missed the point or thought. Don’t make a big deal over it — he just needs someone to replace him by some other interpreter or have a rest. A responsible client will recognize the difficulty of the task of interpreting, and not require unreasonable expectations. Five hour meetings are unreasonable. It is analogous to asking a 100 meter sprinter who has just won the race to keep sprinting until someone tells him to stop. Interpreters need to rest and they need top speak up when this is not recognized.