The monthly email newsletter, delivering a round up of the latest news, articles, events and insights from Luciana Scrofani Green, straight to your inbox.
My posts
My new secret weapon – the Elgato Stream Deck
I’ve recently invested in a new gadget for remote interpreting, thanks to a recommendation from conference interpreter, Amy Allsop (hello and thank you!) within my interpreting network. Virtual meetings are now a huge part of my working life, and I’m always looking for new ways to streamline my workflow. So when I read about the Elgato Stream Deck, I was…
G7 in Siracusa
There was great excitement in my home city of Siracusa (or Syracuse, as it is known in English) last month, when the G7 Agriculture and Fisheries was held there. My brother, Gianluca, is the founder and director of a leading communications agency in Siracusa, Agenzia Media Uno and Siracusa Press, an online daily newspaper known for its in-depth coverage of…
Frugal innovation and adaptation: The future of interpretation
Mid September I attended the IoT & AI for Frugal Innovation Bootcamp Pitch Day and Award Ceremony at Christ’s College Cambridge, where global talent came together to tackle pressing challenges using frugal engineering, AI, and IoT. The bootcamp brought together academics and industry experts with brilliant young engineers, doctors, managers and economists from three continents. They were learning how AI and the Internet of Things can be…
Puglia in the spotlight
My mother’s family were from Puglia, so I was interested to see this region in the spotlight last month, when Italy hosted the G7 summit at the elegant Borgo (Italian for ‘village’) Egnazia. The Puglia coast, on the eastern heel of Italy’s boot, is less well-known than the Amalfi coastline, but it has seen a…
The power of rest
I had a much-needed break in Thailand last month. Running my own business means I’ve always found it hard to unplug. On previous trips I’ve often fitted in short remote interpreting assignments or quick translation jobs. This time I was determined things would be different, so while I did check my emails daily for anything…
What my team and I have been working on
This month for me will be quite London-centric. I have some interesting events at which to work, some in Canary Wharf and others in the city. London, of course, is my home so I will enjoy the easy commute to these assignments. Project management is an aspect of my work that I carry out increasingly…
How synchronised swimming helped me become a better interpreter
One of the events I’m most looking forward to watching at the Olympics later this month is synchronised swimming – or ‘artistic swimming’, as it’s now called. Not many of my clients know this, but as a teenager, I was part of Sicily’s first synchronised swimming team. It was an intense but fun period of…
Celebrating linguistic diversity at Eurovision
Watching Eurovision is one of my guilty pleasures. The music is often terrible, but it’s always entertaining, and as a linguist, I enjoy listening to songs performed in different languages. Up until about seven years ago, around 80% of entries were performed in English, but recently the tide has turned, as this Guardian article explains. Italian…
Spotlight on medical translation
Did you know that one of my specialisms is working with companies in the life science, healthcare, pharmaceutical, medical and bioethics industries? Over the past twenty years, I’ve completed more than 1000 assignments for companies in this sector, including Bayer, Novartis and GSK. One recent example was for the healthcare communications company, Fixing Us. They create inspiring films about patient journeys for…
How I helped a nervous client to perform under pressure
It’s such a joy when someone takes the time to leave me a review. Over the years I’ve gathered over a hundred on Google – all five stars, I’m delighted to say! I treasure each one. Obviously, they’re invaluable for marketing but it also really lifts my spirits to read how I’ve helped a client. Recently, I…
Why you should beware the uncanny valley of AI translation
In 2019, I interpreted for the Mayor of Venice, Luigi Brugnaro, at the Sustainability Summit hosted by the Economist. So it was very surreal to recently watch a video of Brugnaro explaining a new tourist tax for visitors to Venice, while speaking in a broad New York accent, with the faintest twang of Italian. Has Brugnaro become a…
An insider’s guide to visiting Paris
When I travel for pleasure, as I hope to this summer for the Olympics – I love to seek out new places and experiences. Since moving to Paris, my daughter has shown me many wonderful cafes, restaurants, and boutiques she has discovered, so I thought I’d share some of the Parisian gems we’ve enjoyed together recently: My…
The book that’s helping me transform my work-life balance
A friend of mine, Ros, recently gave me a copy of Ryan Holiday’s book ‘Discipline is Destiny’, which discusses the power of willpower, moderation and self-control to improve our lives through the lens of Stoic philosophy. Although I’m very disciplined in my professional life, I’ve always found it challenging to consistently maintain healthy habits, like avoiding working late…
Celebrate the Season of Growth
To celebrate this season of growth, I’m excited to offer a special 10% discount on all my translation and interpretation services for the whole month of April. Whether you need a certified translation or interpretation for personal or business needs, my high-quality services are designed to meet your expectations and deliver the results you require. Don’t…
The Secrets of Sardinia’s Centenarians
For the last few months, I’ve been participating in ZOE, a science-backed personalised nutrition plan developed by the epidemiologist Professor Tim Spector. It’s not always easy to stick to the programme, especially when I’m travelling, but it works wonders for my energy levels when I do. If you’re interested in healthy living, I thoroughly recommend the ZOE…
Lessons in the art of negotiation
Spring signals the start of a busy season of European Work Council (EWC) meetings. I’ve been interpreting for EWCs since 2011, working with more than 250 different companies, many of which have become long-term clients. If you’ve never heard of EWCs, they are forums where the management of large companies can inform their employees of their…
Dreaming of the Amalfi Coast
During my research for the FT Summit, I read that Aurelio De Laurentiis was taking a break from making Hollywood film Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow on the Amalfi Coast, an hour’s drive south of Naples, when he decided to buy the city’s club. It reminded me of a glorious holiday I once took to Positano, a magical town of pastel-coloured houses built…
How to get the best out of your interpreter at a live event
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…
Interpreting for a high-profile court case: Paul Pogba
A last-minute request meant I was an interpreter at the hearing where former Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba received a four-year ban from football, after tests found elevated testosterone in his system. I interpreted for both Pogba and his London-based defence team and the adjudication panel in Italy during the online hearing. As with most legal cases, I used consecutive interpretation, which…
Hollywood to Scudetto – how an Italian movie producer revived Napoli’s fortune
When SSC Napoli won Italy’s national football championship, the Scudetto, in 2023 for the first time in 33 years, the streets of Napoli erupted into a wild party. Winning the Scudetto was a fairy tale ending to a remarkable journey for the club. Back in 2004, it had been languishing in the lower leagues for…
How face-to-face interpreting boosts trust
🌐 Did you know that 78% of users trust face-to-face interpreters compared to just 56% for remote interpreting? A recent study, the SAFE-AI on interpreting services, sheds light on this intriguing aspect: the level of trust users place in different interpreting sources. And this stat got me thinking – why the significant difference? 🤔 The…
Save time on travel check-ins with Face Scanning!
Last week, whilst travelling from London St Pancras to Paris, I discovered a fantastic tip to bypass queues and passport checks on Eurostar – exclusive for Business Premier passengers, and Carte Blanche and Étoile members. One of the Eurostar team, a helpful gentleman called Daniel, introduced me to an amazing travel hack that allows you to bypass…
February 17th is Random Act of Kindness Day
To mark this special date, I’m looking back on the occasion when I provided Italian and English consecutive interpreting for Betty Williams, Nobel Peace Prize winner, at a UNICEF event. Betty was co-awarded the prize in recognition of her work as co-founder of the Community of Peace People in Northern Ireland. What few people know…
Venice Carnival (Carnevale di Venezia)
It’s that time of the year when the city of Venice once again transforms into a magical place of wonder and excitement. Yes, The Venice Carnival takes place from 3rd to 13th February 2024! The word Carnival has Latin origins (carne levare, meaning to remove meat) and traditionally refers to the day after the revelry of Shrove Tuesday,…
Coffee, an authentic ritual
In Italy, coffee is way more than a simple drink: it is an authentic ritual. And, there are certain cultural intricacies to be aware of if you are ordering coffee in any Italian café. It is an integral part of the national identity and an expression of our society that distinguishes us around the world: ☕ Italy is…
Ways to be more charismatic in your profession
As we step into 2024, it’s the perfect time to enhance our personal and professional charisma. Charisma isn’t just about being likable; it’s about making meaningful connections and leaving a lasting impression. Here are nine ways you can boost your charisma this year: Remember, charisma is not about changing who you are; it’s about enhancing…
Barilla’s Stellar Adventure: Fusilli Flies High in a Groundbreaking Space Mission
Forget the January diet, let’s look at the culinary option from Barilla in Space! Tomorrow (10th January), Barilla, a renowned Italian pasta brand (one of my favourites) will be sending their fusilli pasta to space as part of the Ax-3 mission to the International Space Station. This isn’t just about giving astronauts a taste of delicious Italian…
Top tips for setting and keeping your New Year’s resolutions
We all start the new year with the best of intentions, making lists of resolutions in which we vow to form good habits and achieve new goals. But how many of us actually manage to keep them? “We can’t become what we need to be by remaining what we are.” – Oprah Winfrey I, for one,…
2023: My Highlights
Reflecting on 2023, highlights and memorable moments For many, 2023 could be described as a hard year – often it felt like good news was in short supply. The increasing cost of living, spiraling interest rates, and recession have made it a long and difficult year, and add to these the ongoing war in Ukraine…
Expert interpreting services for the finance sector
With over 20 years of experience, I have interpreted for leading financial institutions including PIMCO, Deutsche Bank, Morgan Stanley, and Blackrock. I use simultaneous and whispered interpreting for meetings, conferences, and presentations covering: Recently, requests have surged for my financial services interpreting. I excel in this complex domain through decades of exposure to industry-specific terminology…
From courtrooms to cosmetics: Interpreting across industries this October
Life is rarely quiet (I like it best being busy!) and last month was indeed no exception. The variety of industries in which I work never ceases to amaze me. Last month I worked for clients ranging from criminal justice to manufacturing; from technology to pest control! It has really kept me on my toes! The month started with an in-depth…
Spotlight on: Cinque Terre
Italy boasts an abundance of hidden treasures, places which you may not believe are real until you see them with your own eyes. One such place is Cinque Terre. Have you heard of it? It’s such a beautiful spot I thought I’d transport us briefly, from the dark winter nights and chilly days into brighter, warmer…
Regional Diversity in Italy
One of the most interesting aspects of interpreting in Italian is the diversity between regional cultures. From the Sicilian dialect to Neapolitan pizza, Italy’s regions each have unique identities. It’s so important for me to understand the local language, foods, etiquette, accents, and customs. This allows me to provide culturally attuned services that capture the…
SMAU | Italy RestartsUp in London
At the beginning of this month, the 4th edition of the Smau/Italy RestartsUp event, kicked off in London, strengthening the bridge between the Italian innovation ecosystem and the London and UK tech hub. The opening networking cocktail was hosted by Italian Ambassador to the UK, H.E. Inigo Lambertini and Dino Sorrentino at the Italian Embassy,…
Confidentiality in Legal Translation: More than just keeping secrets
In a world where oversharing is the norm, let’s chat about something we often overlook – confidentiality. We share our morning coffees, our workout routines, and even our dinner plates with the world. But amidst this sea of sharing, there’s a silent island called confidentiality that’s crucial to our professional and personal lives. It’s the…
J’adore Dior!
I’m so proud to share that, for the third consecutive year, I have been selected by Dior, the French multinational luxury fashion house for their Journées Savoir-Faire event to help showcase their iconic Lady Dior bag. Attending the Journées Savoir-Faire event, as an Italian Interpreter for the House of Dior, has been one of the top highlights of my career…
The Surge of Silent Seminars
It’s been interesting to see a marked rise in requests for providing silent seminar services over recent months. A silent seminar, conference or workshop, is an event where attendees use wireless headphones to listen to the speaker or presenter. This allows for multiple presentations or discussions to take place simultaneously in the same physical space without causing…
The Rise of the Workation
I was fortunate enough to be able to spend a large portion of July and August in Sicily with family this year, on what was a six-week workation. For me, it was a wonderful way to fulfil my professional responsibilities whilst also enjoying the benefits of a holiday. This trend has gained momentum as remote…
When interpreters become an emergency service…
Whilst on holiday, I found myself unexpectedly stepping into the role of interpreter during a deeply sombre event, undertaking the difficult task of delivering some terribly sad news. For any interpreter, these moments are undeniably intense and the weight of sorrow does linger, but being able to assist and convey the heartfelt empathy of the…
Breaking down linguistic barriers between Italy and the UK
I wanted to briefly reintroduce myself and explain what it is that I do! Perhaps you’re moving or managing your properties in Italy or the UK, or even need help with requesting a loan from your bank to buy a new home? Maybe you’re an events planner organising a conference, webinar or summit? I’m here…
Inspired by a recent LinkedIn newsletter
Inspired by a recent LinkedIn newsletter, I found myself reflecting on the beautiful flexibility of summer routines and the new perspectives they bring. This summer, indeed, has unfolded a vibrant mosaic of experiences for me. Being in Syracuse, the chief Greek city of ancient Sicily, I’ve found the rhythm of my professional life organically syncing with the…
The art of active listening
Ever thought about the power of listening? It’s more than just hearing the words – it’s about decoding the emotions, the context, the non-verbal cues that speak volumes. As an interpreter, I rely heavily on active listening. But truth be told, it’s a skill that can revolutionise anyone’s communication game. Whether you’re leading a team,…
Memory Mastery in Interpreting
Memory is one critical aspect in interpreting industry that is not often highlighted. There’s this notion that interpreters are just ‘human dictionaries or walking encyclopaedias’. But it’s so much more complex than that! Sure, language skills are the bread and butter, but having a high level of focus, listening skill and short term memory mastery…
The 11 Essential Soft Skills
One thing I realised being in the translation & interpreting industry for two decades is it’s not all about mastering multiple languages. Yes, linguistic fluency is crucial, but another set of skills often takes centre stage – the ‘soft skills’. Sure, knowing the ins and outs of a language is important, but so is the…
Kotter’s 8-step model for leading change in interpretation
Change. It’s an inevitable part of life and no stranger to us in the interpretation and translation industry. But, how we manage it… well, that’s the real game-changer. With constant technological advancements and shifting global trends, adapting becomes our second nature. But wouldn’t it be nice to have a roadmap? That’s where models like Kotter’s…
Luxury and beauty at London’s The Gherkin
I wanted to share with you a brilliant event at which I recently worked, located at one of London’s most iconic buildings, the Gherkin. This architectural marvel, nestled in the heart of the city, offers an experience unlike any other. From the moment you step into the Gherkin, you are met with a blend of…
Empowerment and positive energy with Ideandum
Last month (June 2023) I had the pleasure of working with the fabulous team at Italian dental marketing company, Ideandum, interpreting for an event they held in Canary Wharf. Whilst I spend many of my days interpreting for different events across London and further afield, this event has stuck with me as it was such a positive…
My month ahead…what’s in store for July?
This month I will, for a time, be based in Europe at a conference in Paris (which is starting to feel like a second home considering the number of assignments I have had in the city and also visits to see my daughter at university over the past years!) I then have further work commitments in Amsterdam where I…
Meta AI’s latest innovation in speech technology, Voicebox
I was intrigued to come across the news about Meta AI’s latest innovation in speech technology called Voicebox. It’s fascinating to see how the boundaries are continued to be pushed in this field: just a few weeks after introducing their impressive Massively Multilingual Speech (MMS) project with speech-to-text and text-to-speech capabilities in 1,100 languages, they have now unveiled Voicebox. What…
Embracing inclusive language and cultural agility at conferences
Are you always in tune with your audience? Embracing inclusive language and cultural agility at conferences and with clients. Recently, I have been thinking about how times have changed and what was acceptable – or expected – just a few years ago may not feel the same now. One example of this is how audience…
Business Travel this June
This month for me will be quite London-centric. I have some interesting events at which to work, some in Canary Wharf and others in the city. London, of course, is my home so I will enjoy the easy commute to these assignments. One of these is a European Works Council meeting, of which I have many years’ experience,…
The Italian dolce vita
As we enter into summer, I’m often asked for my travel destination recommendations for Italy. So, with my travel agent hat on, if I were to choose anywhere in Italy to head to for a summer vacation, I would choose the Amalfi Coast. Have you been there? I wholeheartedly recommend spending time embracing this extraordinary part of…
The rise of AI: friend or foe?
There’s been so much written about in the news recently about the developments of AI and its potential impact on life as we know it. Have you been reading about it, too? Whilst this sort of technology may feel threatening to our livelihoods and the careers we have worked so hard to achieve, AI is…
Made in Italy comes to London – The bridge between Italian and UK Innovation Ecosystem
At the beginning of this month, you’ll find me interpreting for the Smau/Italy RestartsUp event, in London. If you’ve read my LinkedIn posts or this newsletter before, you’ve probably seen me write about the Italian Trade Agency’s initiative, Made In Italy, which has promoted some brilliant innovations reminding the world of Italy’s continued and growing excellence in food, wine…
European business travel beckons!
May is shaping up to be another exciting and fast-paced month for me, with a range of interpreting assignments on the horizon. I’ve got my passport and tickets ready to whisk me away to exciting destinations like Budapest, Helsinki and Copenhagen, (to name just a few!) and I am, as always, excited to hop on those planes and start immersing…
Celebrate the season of growth
To celebrate this season of growth, I’m excited to offer a special 10% discount on all my translation and interpretation services for the whole month of April. Whether you need a certified translation or interpretation for personal or business needs, my high-quality services are designed to meet your expectations and deliver the results you require….
Passport office strikes
With the passport offices due to strike for five weeks from 3rd April to the 5th May, I am anticipating there will, no doubt, be a knock-on effect for many of my clients. Certified translations for passport applications are a request I receive year-round, and so I do feel for my clients who may have business and holiday plans…
Sustainability Focus: Earth Day, 22nd April
Did you know that Earth Day is marked worldwide on 22nd April? The first Earth Day was celebrated on 22nd April 1970 in the US, announced by Senator Gaylord Nelson from Wisconsin after he witnessed a massive oil spill in California. The date was chosen as it falls, in the US, between spring break and final exams so…
Hybrid events maintain their popularity
Something I have witnessed an increase in recently is a move to hybrid conferences and events. Hybrid events are those in which interpreters are based on-site, but which the event is streamed to delegates worldwide. Whilst this is clearly more sustainable and cost-conscious, it is also a sensible option to attract a greater number of delegates…
On this day – President’s Club trip to Mauritius
I do like it when reminders of where I was this time last year, the year before, or even ten years before that, pop up on my phone and a reminder which made me smile this week was a photograph from one of the most wonderful interpreting assignments I’ve undertaken to date. This particular assignment was…
Easter in Italy
April is always an important month in the Italian calendar with the arrival of Easter celebrations. It is one of the holiest holidays in Italy, and celebrations to mark the event start this week leading up to Easter Sunday. (The Holy Father left the Gemelli Polyclinic on Saturday where he was hospitalised with a pulmonary infection and…
March is a month to celebrate women
March is a month in which Italy along with the rest of the world celebrate women, with International Women’s Day falling on the 8th March. This day is dedicated to honouring the social, economic, cultural, and political accomplishments of women. This year the event will be marked on the theme DigitALL: Innovation and Technology for…
Medical Conferences
This month I spent some time interpreting for a medical conference which was focusing on the rare condition, lipodystrophy. The subject is very specific and, as with all new topics, my research before the conference was thorough. Prior to this assignment I had never come across this rare condition, which doctors say affect just four…
Simultaneous interpreting services
In contrast to the medical conference, I spent some time carrying out simultaneous interpreting for an Iconic Italian Sports Car Manufacturer. It never ceases to amaze me the different industries I am exposed to, but along with each industry comes a new vocabulary and different tone. I have to spend some time before each assignment…
Interpreting for families overseas
I have been working with a British family who have moved to Italy and bought property in a condominio. If you haven’t come across this word before, a condominio is a property structure whereby individual units within a building or complex are privately owned while the common areas and shared infrastructure (i.e. roof, stairwells etc.)…
Working with all clients, small and large
This past month I have had a surge in requests for certified translation services. A certified translation is a translated document with a certificate of accuracy. In particular, this has been for Italians purchasing property in the UK, and as a result of the number of applications I have translated recently, I think I probably know all…
Do you know the difference between Translation and Interpreting?
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…
Will ChatGPT impact the translation industry?
You might have heard about the new conversational AI tool called ChatGPT that has gone viral lately, but is it going to transform the translation industry? ChatGPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer) is a chatbot created by OpenAI that can answer questions conversationally in a dialogue format. However, it sometimes provides answers that are incorrect or don’t make…
TerpSummit 2023: The Coopetition Edition
Continuing with the theme of setting New Year’s resolutions, I always enjoy learning new things and developing my skills. So it was fantastic to attend TerpSummit 2023, an annual three-day online event that provides a great opportunity to connect with other interpreters and share ideas. This year’s theme, ‘Coopetition’, combines Competition and Cooperation, as discussed by…
Top tips for setting and keeping your New Year’s resolutions
We all start the new year with the best of intentions, making lists of resolutions in which we vow to form good habits and achieve new goals. But how many of us actually manage to keep them? I, for one, am determined to stay on track! As we approach 17 January (the date known as…
2022: My Highlights
Reflecting on 2022, highlights and memorable moments At this time of year, I always like to take time to reflect and learn from my experiences of 2022. It has been an interesting year – and a sad one in many ways too – with the invasion of Ukraine and the death of Queen Elizabeth II. The surge…
November News
November brings business travel in Paris, Brussels and London, interpreting for European Works Council meetings. I have interpreted for EWC meetings for many years and they are a familiar role for me, but the content is frequently varied, so the new information and exposure to different businesses ensures that I am always learning. I was sad…
Focus of Finance
I am delighted to be spending some time working with a new client in the financial services sector this month. I have experience with many financial institutions, including PIMCO, Deutsche Bank, Zurich, Morgan Stanley, Blackrock amongst others, and for this particular assignment there will be a mixture of presentations and boardroom style meetings for me to interpret….
Thanksgiving
As November is the season of Thanksgiving, I would like to extend warm holiday wishes to all my US-based and North American clients. I am always glad to spend time focusing on the positives of life, and to express gratitude to the people who are important to me. This year, I’m feeling particularly grateful for: my brilliant clients,…
J’Adore Dior!
It has been a year since I interpreted at the most fabulous Journées Savoir-faire Lady Dior event at Christian Dior’s flagship store on London’s Bond Street, and I was thrilled to be asked to work at their 2022 Lady Dior event, which on this occasion was held at their majestic Manchester store. Having interpreted for the event last year I…
You are your best investment: CPD
Those who know me know that I am a firm believer in investing in personal learning and growth. I am currently undertaking a training course with an interpreter from the European Parliament who is really at the top of the industry to absorb his valuable knowledge with the aim to become as elite as he is! He has…
KUDO Launch Interpreter Marketplace
I have worked with, and championed, interpreter platform KUDO for some time so I was delighted to read of the launch of KUDO Interpreter marketplace, a new product which gives clients access to a network of over 12,000 professional interpreters on a multitude of platforms including Zoom, Microsoft Teams and Interprefy. I am a regular user of KUDO…
Where will work take me in September?
September will involve travel to a variety of cities in Europe where I will be interpreting for the European Works Council (EWC) meetings, medical investigators’ meetings and luxury fashion houses. I have interpreted for EWC meetings for many years, and it is always an interesting engagement. The nature of the meetings is varied and I…
My Mission
I’ve noticed some new subscribers around here (welcome!), so I wanted to briefly reintroduce myself and explain why I’m here! Are you an Italian company involved in business with the UK? Or a UK company involved in business with Italy? Perhaps you’re led by Italian entrepreneurs? Or do you need personal documents translated? Perhaps you’re…
Industry News
I have just renewed my Chartered Institute of Linguists (CIOL) membership for another year and being a Chartered member of this esteemed institution is a wonderful way to open doors to new clients and companies globally. Alongside being a valuable institution, membership offers expert assistance in specialist divisions along with a comprehensive events agenda and networking opportunities. I…
I Love September
Whilst January may seem like the typical time of year to take stock and start afresh, there’s something about September that makes it a perfect moment to reset and refocus on the remainder of the year ahead. September, to me, is a time when there’s a renewed vigour in the professional world, with new projects on the horizon as…
RSI and interpreter strikes
RSI has been a very topical subject amongst the interpreter community during the past few weeks, following reports that some EU interpreters have suffered damage to their hearing which has been attributed to long-term exposure to substandard microphones and poor-quality broadband, along with other issues that the AIIC would like to see rectified. Earlier this…
Officially approved interpreter for Interprefy
I’m delighted to share that this month I received my official certification as an Approved Interpreter from Remote Simultaneous Interpretation (RSI) platform Interprefy after successfully completing a refresher course. I’ve had great experiences with Interprefy over the years and it’s highly regarded as one of the best-performing RSI platforms in the interpreting community, so I’m…
Expect the unexpected!
If you follow me on Instagram you may have seen a reel I published a couple of weeks ago where I was dashing to an eleventh-hour extraordinary meeting in Geneva. I wanted to take a moment to log the event, as it’s something which, in over twenty years of interpreting, has never happened to me…
Legal interpreting enquiries increase
This month I have experienced a noticeable surge in requests for interpreting services from project managers in dispute resolution, arbitration and other legal cases. As the pandemic eases, legal hearings have now resumed, the backlog is clearing, and much of my legal work is now in person rather than fully remote, as used to be…
Ways to obtain social media success
It is always important to keep your brand up to date, and elements of this include having a fresh, relevant website and a strong presence on social media. I am looking forward to updating my website over the next few months and I hope that you enjoy its new look and content. I recently chatted with…
An extraordinary European Works Council Meeting in Dublin
Dublin is one of those cities which always thrills me with its joyful spirit and energy. I have been there many times before, but with such a long break from travel I had forgotten how fabulous it can be. My recent visit there interpreting for a European Works Council (EWC) meeting was something rather out of the…
Increase your energy, not your time
I recently undertook a course with Ruth Kearns Wollmann, titled “Growing in Resilience Together”. The course has been eye-opening on many levels, but one aspect which really hit home, and which I wanted to talk about further, was the importance she gave to increasing your energy to ensure best performance, not your time. The problem,…
Bafta Q&A with Oscar-winning Italian film director Giuseppe Tornatore
Isn’t it brilliant when a seemingly casual email enquiry turns into an inspiring and truly wonderful assignment? A few weeks ago, I received an email from BAFTA asking me to interpret for an interview they were recording with a film director. I jumped at the opportunity, but in my heart, I presumed the request had…
A Day in the Life of an Interpreter
As an interpreter working with a broad range of clients, it is rare for any two days to be the same. I am a creative individual, and this perpetual change is one of the reasons that I really love my job! I wanted to give you an insight into what my “average” day entails. Perhaps…
Translator fees, clients prep and unreasonable expectations
It has been quite an interesting month at the office as we have received more enquiries than usual, often by individuals requesting details on an urgent basis. We have also received enquiries which have left me somewhat speechless – for example a very urgent request for a translation of a respondent’s witness statement, fifty pages…
Italian Mother’s Day
In Italy, Mother’s Day is celebrated in May, (May 8th this year) so as an Italian mother living in the UK, I am fortunate enough to have two celebrations a year! On the second Sunday in May, La Festa della Mamma is an important event in Italy, as indeed it is in many countries on…
Industry news to watch out for
It was recently announced that Ubiqus a leading global language service provider has joined up with Acolad to expand their reach, speed up delivery timelines, and to support clients in the best possible way. Between the two companies their technical skills, development in technology and vast capability of language solutions offers clients more than just the standard communication support….
Top 5 things to consider when hiring a professional interpreter
We were recently contacted by a London brand design agency whose interpreter had let them down at the last minute. We were called upon at the eleventh hour to step in and assist with a business meeting for which interpretation services were required. It led me to thinking that there are so many ways in which you…
Interpreting for the IT industry: acronyms, jargon and nuance…
Over the last six months, I have been offering interpreting services for an American manufacturing company which is training their Italian staff in using SAP software. I have been interpreting for in depth training sessions in small groups for three to four people at a time, and also 1:1 training sessions, and now feel adept in using this software myself!…
April is a month when Italy also celebrates new life…
Did you know that, according to legend, Rome was founded on April 21, 734 AD. So essentially, Rome’s birthday is this month! The Natale di Roma isn’t celebrated with a national holiday in Italy, but it is marked in Rome with re-enactments and parades in the city. So, if seeing “real” gladiators on the streets of Rome…
Nurturing Growth Mindset Habits
Those who know me, know I am a champion of personal development and this year I embraced this fully, by enrolling on a three-month course with the brilliant Ruth Kearns Woollman (PhD, PCC, CPCC), a Leadership Development Coach and experienced trainer. Ruth is an advocate of the concept of the growth mindset and her course, titled “Growing in Resilience Together”,…
Happy Friday from Luciana Scrofani Green
I’m sure it is no surprise to you to hear that my Italian heritage is so important to me, and connecting with fellow Italians and Italian businesses gives me great joy. As such, I always look forward to attending events, when I can, at UK CONFEDERATION by CONFASSOCIAZIONI and the Italian Chamber of Commerce and…
Wonderful news from Zoom
The relay function has been added for language interpretation! That’s music to my ears that I must share with you! Make sure you download the latest update (5.9.6) for the new interpreting update to show on your device. No need for two devices, two headsets, two emails now. What a breath of fresh air for interpreting events going forward….
MCE Expocomfort 2022 & Simultaneous Interpreting Services
I recently worked with the Ita London Italian Trade Agency (London Office representation at Italian Trade Commission) at their press and industry conference promoting the forthcoming 42 MCE Mostra Convegno EXPOCOMFORT organised by RX Global. In large, corporate events, it is usually standard protocol to provide simultaneous Italian to English/ English to Italian interpretation which enables the interpretation to happen in real-time,…
Working with all clients, small and large
Whilst much of my work is corporate, recently (possibly due to changes in regulations following Brexit) a large proportion of my work has been with individual clients requiring certified translation services. Taking an individual client through the journey to Italian citizenship, or to becoming an Italian homeowner, is a really positive experience and an aspect of…
💡On why becoming a success at failing could be the making of you…
My 20-year long career in Italian 🇮🇹interpreting and translating has opened doors to many interesting and famous people, from film stars to world leaders to religious deities. It has certainly not all been standard corporate work. ➡️I always feel so fortunate to have such a varied profession in which I am always discovering new industries,…
The Language of Love
St Valentine’s Day is approaching, and I found myself pondering on the potential disasters I have seen when translation goes wrong. As a translator myself, I have witnessed some shocking #translationfails when programmes like Google Translate have been relied upon to change a sentiment’s language, so I would always advise using a professional translator to…
In Italy, coffee is much more than a simple drink…
“In Italy, coffee is much more than a simple drink: it is an authentic ritual, it is an integral part of the national identity and an expression of our sociality that distinguishes us around the world”. I was delighted to read about Italy’s bid for UNESCO ‘intangible heritage status’ for Italian espresso. In Italy, coffee…
The Year of the Tiger
The Chinese New Year has officially begun, with 2022 being the Year of the Tiger. Like their eponymous zodiac animal, people born in the years of the Tiger are vigorous and ambitious, daring and courageous, and self-confident with a sense of justice and a commitment to help others for the greater good. Chinese is one of…
The power of networking!
Happy Friday LinkedIn! One of the easiest ways to meet people in the business world is via #networking. The impact it has on you as an individual and your business is outstanding if done correctly. This week I want to share with you 3 key reasons why you should be networking and why it has a massive…
Client spotlight: certification translation client, Claudia Amicucci
I am always so grateful to receive positive reviews for work I have carried out; I like to go the extra mile for my clients, and it is lovely when this is appreciated. Claudia contacted me to translate and certify some legal documents for her on a very tight timescale, and of course I had…
Time for an Italian Connection?
We were so happy to see that travel to Italy has become easier with vaccinated, and unvaccinated tourists allowed to enter the country again. With this increased accessibility, perhaps you are considering purchasing property overseas? With its glorious coastline, incredible history and delightful climate, Italy is, of course, the most beautiful country to visit along…
Let’s start 22 with confidence!
The annual TerpSummit, a three-day online conference especially for Interpreters, is always a joy to attend, and this year was no exception. Working in a highly specialised field can sometimes feel quite isolating, so being able to meet (virtually) with people in the same industry, and share our work successes and difficulties was unbelievably useful….
Italy is named The Economist’s Country of the Year, 2021
Italy is named The Economist’s Country of the Year, 2021 We were delighted (but of course, not surprised!) to see that Italy was named Country of the Year 2021 by The Economist. The competent leadership of Prime Minister, Mario Draghi, and the county’s excellent vaccination rates were praised by the publication, which wrote: “For once,…
🎄 December 2021 🎄 Let’s look back on a fruitful 2021 🎆 News & Best Wishes Italian Interpreter London
As usual during the holidays, time seems to have picked up speed – and all of a sudden, the year is coming to a close! In the final few days of 2021, I would like to reflect on an incredibly rewarding year, thank our clients and colleagues for their continued support, and celebrate everything we…
A very warm welcome (and congratulations) to our new clients!
I recently had the pleasure of working on a translation project with Italian life sciences startup, Patchai. Led by the great mind Alessandro Monterosso, the team at Patchai are the creators of a cutting-edge virtual companion for patients in clinical trials. This technology “enables clinical research and standard clinical practice to become more humane, connected and…
Raise a toast to new connections!
If the events of the last two years have taught us anything, it’s the value of connection. Surrounding ourselves with positive, inspiring people is one of the best ways to boost both our personal and professional lives. I have long been an advocate of joining relevant professional bodies, memberships and associations in order to make new…
2021 My top highlights!
January I spent an enlightening time at the virtual TerpSummit2021 discussing what lies in store for my sector, and it was wonderful to attend such an insightful and timely event with my colleagues. Whether I’m speaking at a conference or in my home office, staying one step ahead of the trends and latest developments in interpretation…
Womens’ Entrepreneurship Day ❤️
Today, Womens’ Entrepreneurship Day is being celebrated at the United Nations. 🇺🇳 As a female entrepreneur for over 20 years, it’s been nothing short of incredible to see the strides women have been making towards a bright future for themselves and their daughters. 🌟 I’m so very proud of all my colleagues for getting to…
We don’t sell words, we sell our knowledge.
A few weeks ago, I came across this quote, shared by a long-time colleague: “We don’t sell words, we sell our knowledge.” These words really struck a chord with me because for interpreters, words are more than a jumble of letters: they’re years of training, experience and linguistic, cultural and contextual understanding. My guiding principle…
November: a time for reflection and Thanksgiving
As the temperatures drop, the evenings get darker and we begin to retreat back to the comforts of home, November is the perfect time to set aside some time to reflect on the year thus far. Over the last week, I’ve been busy reviewing my priorities for the months ahead, recalibrating my goals, and celebrating…
Exponential growth of ecommerce in the Italian market
Over the last few years, online shopping has become the norm for those of us living in the UK, replacing the high street as our default destination for sourcing everything from gifts to seasonal wardrobe updates, and even groceries – and the pandemic has only served to speed up this transition. With an annual revenue…
What can I help you with?
With decades of experience translating in a wide range of specialist sectors, I’m the woman to call on for whatever your project involves! But exactly what can I help you with? Just a few of the assignments I’ve undertaken recently involve: 💶 Corporate finance docs – M&A, joint ventures, LBOs / MBOs, private equity, securitisations…
My career as an Italian interpreter
Over the course of my career, I’ve had the pleasure of working for household names and very accomplished people, from politicians to Popes to philanthropists. I was thinking back on some of my favourite assignments over the last twenty years, and I’m so excited to see what’s coming next. Previously, I’ve worked with people like:…
Climate change
A topic that’s grown increasingly relevant to my work in recent years is the changing climate. ☀️ It’s rapidly become a pressing concern: our time to make a difference to the world by mitigating its effects is running out. ⌛ But that doesn’t mean we can’t make a difference if we act now. And the…
Lady Dior Event – Interpreting assignment in London!
Mid-September saw a truly incredible London Fashion Week. What a stunning way to welcome back in-person events! Every year I look forward to this fabulous glimpse into the minds of some of the most accomplished creatives in the world. Full of eminent names and rising stars, it’s an exhilarating look at the distinguished brands of the times….
My first post-lockdown international business trip!
Along with my first London event, I also found myself heading to Basel, Switzerland for my first post-lockdown international business trip! Those of you who have already travelled abroad post-lockdown will be familiar with the bag of mixed emotions about ensuring your vaccination passports and paperwork are all present and accounted for, and whether your documents…
Working from home…..the debate continues
With this sudden whirlwind of travel after so long in my own office, it’s important to keep sight of the future of work as post-lockdown decisions are made. The question on everyone’s minds right now is that of whether we’ll be ‘working responsibly‘ from home or returning to the office full-time. The recent McKinsey study covering the future of work after…
COP 26 Summit – Changing Climate
A topic that’s grown increasingly relevant to my mission in recent years is our changing climate. It’s rapidly become a pressing concern: our time to make a difference to the world by mitigating its effects is running out. But that doesn’t mean we can’t make a difference if we act now. And the UK and Italy will…
Do you plan on moving to Italy, or do you have an Italian property to manage?
I’m also ready to help you on a personal level as well! Moving abroad is one of the biggest changes we’ll go through in our lives – but what people often don’t consider are the little details which can get lost in the chaos. You might not know how to pay your bills, or even how…
Let me introduce myself!
I’ve noticed some new readers around here (welcome!), so I hoped to briefly reintroduce myself and explain why I’m here! – Are you an Italian company involved in business with the UK? – Or a UK company involved in business with Italy? – Perhaps you’re led by Italian entrepreneurs? – Or do you need personal…
Working with Accountsco
I’m also proud to say that I’m collaborating with AccountsCo as their official Italian translation and interpretation partner. AccountsCo is here to help non-UK businesses succeed in the UK – they provide UK tax, accounting, legal, import & other services to both UK subsidiaries of overseas companies and UK businesses owned by non-UK-native entrepreneurs. To get your…
The importance of a personable interpreter
Sometimes clients can forget that I don’t only work in the international and diplomatic arenas. In fact, some of my most important jobs have been supporting individuals through difficult situations and life-changing challenges. Perhaps you’ll be enrolling at university or starting a new job abroad. You might be moving house, or helping your family with a…
It almost came home…
With a foot firmly in both England and Italy, the final of the European Championship was a win-win situation for me! I was in one of those households where half of the living room was Italian and the other half were English so the flags were different on each side of the room. We even…
Join the conversation #UNFSS2021
I’ve recently been fortunate to work on the content for the #UNFSS2021 Pre-Summit, which was held in Rome, on 26th-28th July. Although mine was only a small role, it was empowering to be part of such a large event (more than 20,000 virtual delegates and 500 in-person, from 190 countries) and we were delighted with the feedback…
From a click to a happy client 🤝
If you’ve been following me for some time here, you’ll have heard me talking about the importance of keeping your online presence up to date – it’s the best way to help potential clients find you! 🔭 And here’s a story to prove it: A recent client looking for an interpreter let me know they…
#Climatechange 2021 🍂
#Climatechange 2021 🍂 I’ve really enjoyed being down in Carbis Bay where the #G7 Summit was held earlier this year and it’s got me looking forward to the #COP26 which the UK has been chosen to host later in the year in partnership with Italy. I’m incredibly passionate about climate change and building a better…
Focus on building the new!
“The secret of change is to focus your energy, not on fighting the old, but on building the new.” There’s a reason that Socrates is highly regarded as one of the greatest philosophers in history. His thoughts resonate throughout the ages and still offer as much insight as guidance as they did when they were…
Need a Super Speedy Service?
Like all of you, I’ve had to adapt the way I work during lockdown, and although it’s presented me with many challenges, it has also made me far more agile. I was recently able to deliver a certified marriage certificate within just one hour of the request coming through! Proof, if ever it was needed,…
An exciting new chapter as we return to face-to-face interpreting
What a busy few weeks it’s been! The excitement of the Euros, lockdown restrictions lifting across the UK, and some very, very warm weather (please, pass me the gelato)! As I get ready to meet people face-to-face again, I want to make sure everyone’s up to date with my activities and work. There is a…
PARTNERSHIP Italy- UK
In the latest addition of the Italian-UK partnership magazine, the publication of the Italian Chamber of Commerce and Industry for the United Kingdom (ICCIUK), I was delighted to be invited to share my thoughts on the transformation of interpreting activities during the Coronavirus pandemic and the central role assumed by the remote simultaneous interpreting mode in these last 12…
Now available: urgent English – Italian certified translations of PCR and Covid-19 test results!
Take last-minute travel documents off your mind and into the skies ✈️ We’re hearing more and more about possible Covid vaccine passports, negative PCR tests for travel and more, so did you know I can offer urgent English – Italian certified translations of your PCR or COVID-19 test results every single day of the week?…
Urgent and same-day English – Italian translations available! Get in touch today
In a rush? Don’t panic! 😌 We all like to be prepared and plan in advance, but what happens when an urgent project or paper drops onto your plate? Well, you can still deliver it, because I can provide urgent and even same-day turnarounds for your translation projects. Let me take care of business and…
Every industry speaks its own language
🌍 Every industry speaks its own language. 🌍 One of my favourite quotes comes from the writings of Osho: “There are subtle nuances to words. Those nuances are lost in translation, and those are the real things.” From technical terminology to witty office banter, business speak is packed full of nuance. This does not pose…
Watch your language! How language and technology evolve – RSI English – Italian services
Watch your language! As an interpreter, I love watching how language evolves over time. Just twelve months ago, the word ‘lockdown’ was socially distanced from our everyday vocabulary! Now, most of us use it on a daily basis. This is just one example, but it perfectly encapsulates the living nature of language. Even when we…
Britain’s place in #EWCs post-Brexit – here’s what you need to know…
Britain’s place in #EWCs post-Brexit – here’s what you need to know… Following the completion of the transition period, the UK is now legally considered as a “third country” in terms of its relationship with EU member states. What this means in practice for companies that have not yet established a European Works Council, is that only…
How can you boost engagement with new and potential clients virtually?
How can you boost engagement with new and potential clients virtually? During my career, I’ve been a believer in building relationships, trust and letting my skills and experience speak for themselves. I’ve been fortunate this approach has reaped some wonderful clients I have formed long-term partnerships with, but this is much easier said than done when presenting…
#TerpSummit2021: a true success! 💡
#TerpSummit2021: a true success! 💡 What a wonderful and inspirational week we’ve had at the virtual #TerpSummit – the best summit for interpreters I’ve ever attended! It has offered a wealth of invaluable content across three days: from general self-care tips to specific advice for us interpreters including voice care, stress management techniques, personal branding, #coopetition (Thank you Julia!) adding…
Interpreting on food sustainability for the Chairman of Barilla Group and Barilla Foundation, Guido Barilla
“We do not inherit the Earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children.” I was reminded of this sentiment recently whilst interpreting for the Chairman of Barilla Group and Barilla Foundation, Guido Barilla, during an assignment on food sustainability. The discussion was titled “Resetting the Food System from Farm to Fork: Setting the…
NEW Video Alert! Watch my new professional video and find out why I love my job so much!
“Translation is not a matter of words only: It is a matter of making intelligible a whole culture” – Anthony Burgess I’ve been privileged in my career to have had some incredible experiences and meet many wonderful and inspiring people. I’ve travelled around the world to conferences, EWCs and more. I promised some exciting new…
The Value of Video in Developing Your Brand
Did you know? Did you know that 84% of marketers say #videos have increased traffic to their sites, and 93% of brands report gaining new customers due to sharing videos on social media? 🎥 This year, we’ve discovered just how important video is for connecting and communicating with our clients and colleagues – who knows how long…
Maintaining your professional image up-to-date – professional photoshoots
Recently I spoke about the importance of maintaining up-to-date professional headshots, and I like to practice what I preach! 📷 Taken before lockdown, I’ve just had my new set of professional photography through and I’m so pleased with them! Inspired by Vice President-elect Kamala Harris, I have decided to make some changes to my wardrobe…
Interpreting means big events and expensive booths, right? 🤔 Not always!
Interpreting means big events and expensive booths, right? 🤔 If this year has taught us anything, it is that isn’t always the case… I work with many individuals and companies who need interpreting services for intimate meetings, presentations or interview scenarios and those are some of my favourite assignments. With these assignments, I have the…
Closed captioning is open for business! – Introduction of Otter.ai
Closed captioning is open for business! With remote working seemingly here to stay for the foreseeable future, Zoom has continued its incredible knack for innovation with the launch of live captioning. Live captioning is a notoriously tricky thing to get right – watch any news channel in real-time and the closed captions are often several…
Have you heard of Zapps? New app software from Zoom creators
Perhaps the biggest winner in the #WFH revolution, Zoom has recently launched its next round of tech innovation – Zapps. Zapps – or Zoom apps – are apps able to be used directly in your Zoom meeting, giving access to best-of-breed applications to be more efficient and effective before, during, and after your virtual meetings, helping to operationalize your…
Proud to be a Pro 🎤 – New KUDO Pro Certification
There’s a real buzz in the #RSI world this week as KUDO launches its new certification – KUDO Pro. KUDO Pro interpreters are professional conference interpreters with proven experience in remote simultaneous interpreting in general and KUDO in particular. They have mastered the skills needed to interpret at a KUDO meeting independently and on short notice, meet or exceed…
Are you in it for the long haul? – Testimonial from Baillie Gifford, an independent investment manager
I saw a really inspiring quote recently from a colleague that read “We don’t sell words, we sell our knowledge”. That really struck a chord with me. Being able to speak multiple languages is not enough to be a good interpreter. Our experience, our years of study, our time invested to really get to the…
Reviewing #RSI platforms: looking back and looking forward…
The world of Remote Simultaneous Interpreting is seeing an enormous boom in innovation, with existing platforms growing their offer for clients and interpreters and monolingual platforms (like Zoom and Microsoft Teams diversifying to support RSI as part of their service). In the final post of this series, we’re looking at QuaQua meeting, Interactio, innovation in RSI as well as…
A client’s smile is the true marker of success 🌟
A few weeks ago, I interpreted at a fantastic witness familiarisation course, designed to prepare factual witnesses during arbitrations. Delivered via Zoom, the course was led by a top-level barrister, who imparted and delivered the content in a very clear and exhaustive way. She was truly excellent and a joy to work with. My objective…
Let’s talk about the B word!
With everything else that’s happened this year, you’d be forgiven for forgetting about Brexit. But, with a deadline for a trade deal looming, it’s vital that businesses prepare for a possible deal or no deal. Recently I tuned into an interesting discussion led by the The Italian Chamber of Commerce and Industry for the UK and ITA London…
How we can adapt the way we work to help our clients? 🤔
Aside from the obvious point of remaining flexible to your clients’ needs and being creative in offering bespoke solutions, more often than not a ‘one size fits all approach’ won’t deliver the best results. I’ve recently seen a noticeable shift in clients asking for an on-site interpreter, working from our beloved booths with a socially-distanced…
Looking forward to the future 😊
Us interpreters are ‘people people’ by nature, and it’s been a long haul for many of us switching from booths and plane journeys to our laptops at home! I for one have missed the feeling you can only get from working around others. So, imagine how delighted I was last week when I got a…
Zoom interpreting : Francesco Totti
I’ve been incredibly fortunate during my career to have had the privilege of meeting a great number of people with international standing, and one of the most memorable of my career came over the summer with a true footballing icon who re-wrote footballing history – and more – of the Eternal City. I am referring,…
READY … STEADY … RE-START! ☀️
Ready: writing the stories that inspire our future as well as our present. Steady: confidently facing the challenges that lie ahead, armed with good practices and fine examples. Re-start: with the optimism of a start-up that innovates and ‘renews’ the market. Made in Italy: the re-start. In 2020 the #MadeinItaly story will be told and innovatively re-told…
Take a deep breath and take a moment to pause 🧘
I think it’s fair to say that this year has taken a toll on everyone’s mental wellbeing and we’ve all had to adapt and work in new ways that we’re perhaps not used to. Your work takes up a large part of your identity and your time, but it’s not just who you are. Always…
Never stop learning, because learning never stops 👩🏫
Yesterday I had the pleasure of participating in a demo for QuaQua meeting, an online meeting platform which offers the functionality for RSI. (Very responsive, attentive and problem-solving team. I experienced a problem which was immediately solved in a speedy one to one session!) Qua Qua describes itself as “a user-friendly meeting platform for both…
📢 Do you value your voice? 📢
For me, I obviously value my voice – my livelihood depends on it! – but I also know it’s also vital that it sounds ‘right’ for my clients. And by ‘right, I mean calm, reassuring and pleasant to listen to. In other words, my voice must accurately represent the ‘voice’ of my client. Over the…
Do you know your worth? 💸
Don’t undersell yourself. 🏃 Work hard at having firm confidence in yourself and what you do. When you value your work, your clients will see that and will follow suit. As an interpreter, I always remind myself that I’m in a position to provide my clients with an invaluable service – connecting the world, helping…
Latest Zoom interpreting assignment
I’m often asked if interpreting on stage makes me nervous… In reality, interpreters are often not even in the same room as the presenter, but given these unprecedented times, they can often be seen on your own PC screen! This was the case at one of my most recent assignments. The event organiser invited me…
AccountsCo Partnership Announcement
A globalized world requires a globalized approach 🤝 I’m delighted to be partnered with AccountsCo, an organisation that supports established businesses based outside of the UK expand into the UK by providing them with high-quality UK tax, accounting, legal, import-export & HR services. I offer specialist certified translations for documents for a range of business services…
The power of being nice
Never underestimate the power of being nice 🙂 It may sound twee but it’s so true. I don’t have a strategy or sales technique for “closing”, I just try to be nice. Customer service is my absolute number one goal on any assignment, whether it’s translating certifications or in-person interpreting. And that’s my advice for…
Together we can do so much 🤝 CIOL Conferences
Together we can do so much 🤝 6th & 7th March saw the first-ever Chartered Institute of Linguists (CIOL) conference, which may have been one of the last times we could all be together in one room before Coronavirus grounded our travel plans and moved us online 👩🏽💻 I really enjoyed reading about the conference…
Relaunching Italian economy with events by Gruppo 24 Ore and Financial Times.
Relaunching Italian economy with events by Gruppo 24 Ore and Financial Times. This is a really exciting project and a unique partnership between two powerhouse news organisations and the best bit… it’s all digital! Leveraging the two groups’ authoritative journalism and broad experience in global events, the three-day series, entitled “MADE IN ITALY: THE RESTART –…
Repeat clients
I love variety but…I love repeat clients more! 📒 I’ve been working with many of my clients for more than 20 years and that’s given me ample opportunity to get to know their work, their expectations and, above all, their personalities 👩🏽💻 Taking the time to find out their likes and dislikes at the start…
Reviewing RSI platforms: Views on VoiceBoxer
It’s hard to imagine how the interpreting industry would have been able to continue as well as it has over the last few months without RSI, but it’s not a new technology by any stretch. It seems like a lifetime ago now, but VoiceBoxer was the first RSI platform I ever used back in 2014…
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It’s not what you sell that matters, as much as how you sell it! 🤳🏼 For independent interpreters, aside from providing top-notch service and ensuring happy clients, marketing is one of the most important areas of running a successful business. 🎯 Between assignments, international travel and day-to-day administration, it’s easy to let marketing slip to…
We hire experts so they can do things we can’t, so treat them as the experts ⚡️
I wanted to share an interesting and honest blog I read this week by Giovanna Lester. Remote meetings have been a way of life for the last few months, and I’ve spoken extensively about the role of RSI in navigating through that 🖥 In all industries, some of the most difficult conversations come from talk of…
Translating press releases – the importance of promptness
We all know how temporary news is. In fact, in today’s social media society, news is even more transient than ever 📰 At OSLS we translate a lot of press releases. The one thing that my communications clients value over anything else is promptness. A 24-hour turnaround is vital in our whirlwind world 📥 Before…
Great news from Nova Siria srl! – Congratulations to the whole Nova Siria team!👏
Nova Siria is a family-run 🇮🇹 Italian business that designs and produces jointing, repairing and hot-tapping systems for land and marine pipelines and is a long-term and well-valued client of mine. 📌The company, part of the Hawle Austria Group since 2015, has announced that its management will transition from the second generation of the Ferrero…
Journeys are measured in memories, not miles ✈️
Journeys are measured in memories, not miles ✈️ As lockdown restrictions continue to relax and the world as we knew it starts to return, what does the future hold for us interpreters? 🤔 We’ve been hearing a lot in the last few weeks about the proposed ‘travel corridors’ between countries, allowing the residents to travel…
Reviewing RSI platforms: An Interpreter’s View on Interprefy
Despite a growing roster of RSI platforms, Interprefy is one that I keep going back to again and again, thanks to its user-friendly interface and unrivalled tech support. For those who aren’t as familiar with RSI (aka Remote Simultaneous Interpreting), it’s a great solution for international training courses, webinars, presentations, board meetings and more with…
✨YOU are your best investment✨ – TechItalian Women in Tech Meetup, June 2020
Last week I joined a TechItalia Women in Tech meet up, with panels on Start-Up Resilience and Stakeholder, Employee and Client Engagement During Covid. 🥁 During the Covid-19 lockdown, I made a commitment to dedicate time to my professional and personal development, and I was so inspired by the women I heard on the panels. Both panels…
🚀 2020 innovation time: Homeworking and the interpreter’s digital booth 🏡💻
2020 will no doubt be remembered for the Covid-19 pandemic, an acceleration of digital processes, and the proliferation of online events and digital meetings. This acceleration and “rethinking”💡 of the way we work has also affected my sector, specifically the area of “simultaneous interpreting”. 🎙 ⬇️ The work I used to do in the presence…
Interpreting for Betty Williams (Nobel Peace Prize Winner 1976) – National Meeting of UNICEF Volunteers
During my professional career, I have had, and still have, the privilege of working alongside (in the literal sense of the term) personalities of international stature from the world of politics, institutions, and entertainment. In 2011, during the second National Meeting of UNICEF volunteers, I was the interpreter for Betty Williams (Nobel Peace Prize Winner 1976), who…
Reviewing RSI platforms: Spotlight on KUDO
KUDO is one of the key players in Remote Simultaneous Interpreting and a platform that I regularly use for my RSI assignments. For those who aren’t as familiar with RSI, it’s a great solution for international training courses, webinars, presentations, board meetings and more with a global attendee list. The attendees can listen to the…
Is Remote Simultaneous Interpreting the future of interpretation?
Remote Simultaneous Interpreting is having its finest hour. I love all things tech, and there’s been a real flurry of activity in the RSI world over the last couple of months. Out of a difficult situation for everybody has come something positive, and both interpreters and clients are really starting to see the benefits of…
A global response to a global health crisis – where are we at with a Covid-19 vaccine?
The race to develop a Coronavirus vaccine is well and truly on. Already there are at least 159 potential vaccines in development, and seven of those are undergoing first-stage trials. It’s a huge step forward in combating the virus, and as we grow evermore restless and eager to move from the “new normal” back to…
The age of video: why video translation is more important than ever
During lockdown, video translation has been one of the things keeping me busy. Learn about why it’s so beneficial and is now more important than ever. As the world moved into lockdown, we all had to learn to adapt in so many ways. Some people’s day to day realities might not have changed all that…
All You Need to Know About the Italian Chamber of Commerce
Thank you to the Italian Chamber of Commerce (ICCIUK) for publishing my article, which I am told was one of their most popular articles from the latest newsletter! You can view it here. As wonderful as online networking is, it can’t replace the real-world support of organisations like the Italian Chamber of Commerce, of which…
It’s RSI time! 5 lessons I’ve learnt as a remote simultaneous interpreter during lockdown
With the coronavirus pandemic forcing us interpreters to stay indoors and opt for remote simultaneous interpreting instead, I’ve learned a lot about interpreting from home. It’s all in the tiny details. I hope you’ll find this article useful! Lesson 1 Don’t gamble with poor wi-fi Fast internet. It’s all something we take for granted really,…
The Pandemic Won’t Stop EWCs Meetings from Going Ahead. It’s Not All Bad. Here’s Proof.
A big Thank you to all those companies that have decided not to cancel their meetings. I’m delighted to hear from direct clients and agencies I’m honoured to work for, that European Works Councils (EWCs) have started postponing them to September-December 2020. It’s great to feel buzzing again, to be able to tap on emails…
Don’t you just love Italians? Even in the worst of circumstances, we always find a way to celebrate.
Forbes Italia just released its 2020 list of 100 talented people under 30. What do these people have in common? Many of them work in or have founded startups. Entrepreneurs Nicolò Santin and Matteo Albrizio founded the startup Gamindo, which lets people donate to charity by playing video games – a great way to pass…
5 Tips to Stop Coronavirus Crashing Your Plans
The deadly Coronavirus is sweeping across the world, leaving some towns with empty streets, closed schools, and shuttered shopfronts. It is also wreaking havoc in the conference interpreting industry. Cancellations are pouring through because, understandably, nobody wants to put themselves at risk. In spite of all the negative, I try to see opportunity in every…
Happy Valentine’s Day! ❤️
Happy Valentine’s Day! ❤️ Have you ever had a particularly “romantic” interpreting assignment? Not such a long time ago I had the experience of interpreting at a dinner where the conversation took a romantic turn! It was between two business associates (who’d clearly been admirers from afar!) and it was a lovely experience. Compliments and…
Building a top-of-mind brand identity for interpreters with Ewandro Magalhaes, Career Bootcamp for Interpreters in London
Building a top-of-mind brand identity is not easy, but the Career Bootcamp for Interpreters organised last week at the London Metropolitan University has been inspirational in so many ways. Today I just wanted to express my gratitude to Ewandro Magalhaes and the whole team of talented colleagues that I had the pleasure to meet. Hosted…
Happy holidays! Need last minute language services?
Do you need any last minute Italian <> English interpretation or document translation services? With the year swiftly drawing to a close, December is getting booked up fast. If you would like to use my language services, I urge you to get in touch by the end of this week to secure a booking. With…
Your professional image: Time for a refresh?
When was the last time you updated your professional photos? Every business can benefit from sleek, stunning shots. As interpreters, we are expected to look, act and work with complete professionalism, as we are often entrusted with highly sensitive and substantial information and we represent the clients during high profile negotiations and events. Professional photography…
How can I make sure I receive a high quality legal translation? Top tips for law firms.
I’m pleased to be receiving a growing number of requests from legal firms asking for my specialist Italian translation and interpreting skills! Requests for legal translation do vary, but here’s a typical one I received recently: “As all the documents are in Italian, we are first looking to get a general overview of the content…
5 reasons why I love being an interpreter
Birthdays tend to be a time for reflection, don’t you think? For my birthday, I’d like to reflect on my career as an interpreter and share with you a few reasons why I love my job. 1. The endless surprises. I still get excited every time I receive an email for an interpreting assignment because…
Tips for working with interpreters and translators – Meet Cambridge interview
As I renewed my membership with Meet Cambridge (an official bureau for conference and event venues at the University of Cambridge, Colleges, hotels and other unique properties), to list my Italian translation and interpreting services in their Event Support directory, it reminded me of my interview with the lovely Judith Sloane. The interview was published…
Digital detoxing. What’s your take on it?
I’m currently having a few weeks away from work and it’s amazing! There’s nothing quite like spending quality time with friends and family. I’ve also really enjoyed going on day trips, boat trips and power walks to fight the sedentary lifestyle I tend to lead as a translator. During my time off, I’ve discovered something…
How do you interpret inclusion and belonging? Take a second look…
When interpreting at a diplomatic/governmental level, we must show discretion, avoid photography, be as invisible as possible, be mindful of eating/non-eating and be seated behind Heads of States. As interpreters, we must be familiar with dress codes, etiquette, demeanour, correct forms of address for dignitaries, tact, and savoir-faire. We will always interpret what the speaker…
100 years of conference interpreting — from Paris to Nuremberg to the 3rd revolution!
This year marks the 100-year anniversary of conference interpreting, which officially dates back to the Paris Peace Conference in 1919! To celebrate the centenary, the FTI and ILO are co-hosting an event on the theme ‘Looking back and looking forward!’ in Geneva this October. It will include presentations and debates on the history and future…
Do EWC plenary meetings need to be in-person?
European Work Council meetings are traditionally in-person, but recently some companies have been switching (or trying to switch) to virtual EWC meetings. Already some companies organise the Select Committee meetings virtually to be able to meet much faster and to save travel time and costs. When it comes to organising the plenary EWC meeting, companies…
Business interpreting @ OSA Community Meeting at Carlton House, London, 7th June 2019
One of the ways to grow your business is listening to successful entrepreneur stories for inspiration and ideas – and that’s what over 100 Italian entrepreneurs, led by the two founders Alessio Brusemini and Mirco Gasparotto did, at the #OSA Community meeting at Carlton House last Friday. I had the privilege to interpret for three…
Interpreting at Petrolicious Drivers Meeting, Bicester Heritage, 12th May 2019
Interpreting for Ms Daniela Borrini of International Classic @ Petrolicious Drivers Meeting at Bicester Heritage, May 2019. It was an absolute delight to interpret for Ms Daniela Borrini on 12th of May at the Petrolicious Drivers Meeting at Bicester Heritage. Thanks to lovely weather, this outdoor event organised on the site of former RAF Bicester…
What really goes on in the brains of simultaneous interpreters?
Sometimes at conferences, people come to the interpreting booths and watch in awe. They wonder how we can do this “magic trick” — interpreting smoothly and intelligently from one language into another without missing a beat. The truth is, it isn’t magic, and we aren’t superhumans. We are highly trained, very experienced, and our brains…
Interpreting at the Sustainability Summit – The Economist, London 21st March 2019
Consecutive interpreting for the Mayor of Venice, Luigi Brugnaro, at The Economist Sustainability Summit 2019. During the summit on the 21st March, I used a ‘listen, pause, talk’ approach, called consecutive interpreting. The event included Mayor’s talk first, followed by a Q & A with the audience of business leaders. Mayor Brugnaro’s speech covered many…
Smart luggage: a new addition to the urban nomad’s survival kit
As a frequent flier and regular on-train email-checker, I’m always on the lookout for tools and devices to make my life easier on the road.
Avoid the pitfalls of interpreting: hire a professional
In our ever-shrinking world, where even microbusinesses can trade across borders, making meaningful connections with new audiences is vital.
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