We live in a global, digital age, where businesses are able to expand their operations across the globe.
When the time comes to share your #business message with a new, international market, you’ll probably need someone to help you break down the language barriers. But what kind of language service suits your requirements?
Translation or interpreting?
I offer both translation and interpreting services, and I’m often asked what the difference is between the two. So let me explain:
Interpreters transfer the spoken word from one language into another, usually in a live setting, remotely or over the phone. Interpreting requires a good memory and quick reflexes.
Translators also communicate in multiple foreign languages, but do so in writing and over a longer period of time to allow for researching the right words, editing and formatting.
Both services require a high level of skill, but translation is the transfer of writing from one language to another, while interpreters process spoken languages.
Although some people can do both, a good translator is not necessarily good at interpreting, and vice versa, as the skill sets required are very different.
Do you need a translator or an interpreter?
Firstly, have a think about the project you need support with. Do you need a written document or email translated? Or are you holding an event where you need an interpreter to work in real time?
Once you’ve established which service you need, you can ask for a quote. If you need translation services, you need to specify the length of the document, the subject area, the original language, the language it needs to be translated into and the desired deadline.
For interpreting services, you must clarify whether you need support for an event, telephone conversation or video conference. It helps to know the date and length of your event, the languages involved and the subject matter. It would also be useful to give an idea of your budget.
If it’s an interpreter you need, remember to factor in travel and accommodation expenses for your event.