In the intricate world of live events, the role of interpreters is pivotal in ensuring seamless communication and understanding across diverse audiences. To harness the full potential of your interpreter and guarantee a successful event, strategic planning is paramount. Here I share key strategies to optimise the interpreter’s performance, drawing insights from real-world experiences in the field.
Book interpreters early in the planning process
Event producers often leave the task of hiring an interpreter to the last minute. This can make it tricky to secure the best interpreters, as our diaries fill up quickly. Lining up an interpreter early also means we can advise you on technical issues and help ensure everything runs smoothly.
Supply background material and questions in advance, but remember that an experienced interpreter can handle spontaneous discussion
The FT gave me questions for the De Laurentiis interview, but only a few were used – he spoke entirely off-the-cuff, which certainly kept me on my toes!
Allow ample time for the interpreter to meet the speaker before their session
This enables us to understand their personality and speaking style, so we can produce a more nuanced performance.
Provide a quiet spot where the interpreter can hang out before the session
My pre-session meeting with De Laurentiis was very useful, but after two hours of talking, I was grateful to slip away for a moment of calm and gather my thoughts before the session.