In today’s article, I’d like to answer a question that my clients frequently ask me: “Why do you always ask me for preparation materials? Surely just knowing both languages is more than enough?”
The answer is a resounding no: if simply being bilingual were enough to be an interpreter, we’d have millions of interpreters worldwide. Fortunately, (or unfortunately 😉), the reality is far more complex.
A professional interpreter never shows up to an assignment without having thoroughly researched the topic, the speakers’ backgrounds and their professional careers.
Because of this, receiving the event agenda and – ideally – the presentations, slide decks, and videos that will be shown on the day of the event is absolutely essential. It ensures we can properly master both the specific subject matter and the required terminology.
In simultaneous interpretation, the interpreter has a window of just 3 – 4 seconds to process what the speaker is saying, convert it, and deliver it flawlessly in the target language.
Imagine the speaker is a leading industry expert introducing cutting-edge, innovative concepts to a room full of fellow specialists. How can the interpreter accurately convey these brand-new concepts if they have never encountered them before?
It is vital to keep in mind that while the interpreter is a highly-trained language professional trained with a deep domain knowledge, they ARE NOT AN INSIDER IN YOUR SPECIFIC FIELD.
For example, although I specialize in medicine for interpreters and translators, I am not – and never will be – a medical doctor. Sending me the PowerPoint presentation in advance ensures that I won’t be caught off guard, allowing me to study the material thoroughly and deliver a flawless translation.
Without those materials, the interpreter is forced to work completely blind, which might lead to omitting critical details and unnecessarily compromising the overall quality of your communication.
What About Data Privacy?
If you are worried about sensitive information, you can absolutely ask the interpreter to sign a Confidentiality Agreement or a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) to protect your privacy. Furthermore, under our strict professional code of ethics, interpreters are legally and bound to maintain absolute confidentiality regarding everything they hear.
So, if you ever feel hesitant about sharing your slides, I promise you that the only reason we ask for materials is to prepare as meticulously as possible, ensuring your message is delivered with absolute accuracy and precision.
Have I convinced you? What will you do the next time your interpreter asks you for preparation materials?
If you’re organizing a convention, conference, trade show, or international event that requires a professional interpreter for English, Italian, and Spanish, please feel free to contact me for a free, no-obligation quote by calling me on +393202663422 or sending me an e-mail to: eleonora.monoscalco@gmail.com
I look forward to partnering with you to expand your international revenue and help you achieve your most ambitious global goals!