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Interpreter

Do you want to become a Interpreter? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:

Job Description - Print Page

Interpreters listen to a speaker in one language and convert what he/she has said into one or more other languages. They use different interpreting techniques:

• consecutive interpretation - interpreting after the speaker has said a sentence or paragraph
• simultaneous interpretation - interpreting into another language at the same time as the speaker is speaking, eg for delegates at a conference
• ‘whispering' interpretation - simultaneous interpreting to just one or two people.

There are also sign interpreters, trained to communicate with deaf people in British Sign Language.

Interpreters usually work a 35 hour week, but sometimes work additional evenings and weekends at conferences or meetings. They work indoors in meeting rooms, conference booths or through conference phone systems.

Salaries range from £17,000 for newly qualified interpreters, to more than £50,000 for experienced interpreters. Freelance interpreters negotiate daily rates, usually between £250 and £450 per day.

An interpreter should:

•  be fluent in one or more foreign languages
• quick to respond and honest
• have a clear and confident speaking voice and be excellent at their own language
• have good memory, concentration skills and stamina
• have a good knowledge of the field they are working in.

It is important for an interpreter to enjoy foreign languages and countries, to like working with different types of people and situations and researching different types of work.

There are around 1,000 UK-based interpreters working full time, and at least 2,500 freelance workers. Most interpreters have a degree in languages, languages combined with another subject, or an Institute of Linguists (IoL) Diploma. Adults can enter interpreting through full or part-time study, or from language teaching or bilingual posts in industry.

Organisations such as CILT - The National Centre for Languages, IoL and the Institute of Translation and Interpreting (ITI), can provide information on training opportunities for professional linguists, the latter two organisations also having membership schemes.

Large organisations, eg the European Commission (EC), the United Nations (UN), UK government departments and international companies, have a graded career structure with promotion opportunities. Freelance interpreters need to market their business and skills effectively to progress to larger, better paid contracts. Overseas jobs are sometimes available, eg with the Foreign Office, UN and other international organisations.

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