WHAT IS SIMULTANEOUS INTERPRETING?

  • Simultaneous interpreting is parallel to the spoken text – the interpreters listen to the speaker and interpret into another language at the same time. This interpreting method is time-efficient and best suited for events like conferences, presentations, meetings etc.
  • Because simultaneous interpreting requires the highest degree of concentration and analysis as well as a great mental capacity, the interpreters always work in teams of two or more in a special soundproof booth and take turns about every 30 minutes.
  • In case of events without a fixed venue, like workshops and guided tours, the use of a mobile interpreting unit is possible. If only one or two listeners need an interpreter, whispered interpreting may also be an option. I will be happy to advise you on the method best suited to your event.

 

WHAT IS CONSECUTIVE INTERPRETING?

  • Consecutive interpreting is delayed compared to the original speech. The interpreter listens to the speaker first and takes notes using a special technique. She only begins to interpret once the speaker has finished. This almost doubles the duration of the speech. For that reason, consecutive interpreting is best suited for short and festive speeches – like addresses, dinner speeches etc.
  • A form of consecutive interpreting is liaison interpreting, in which the interpreters switch back and forth between two languages while interpreting a conversation between two or more partners.

 

HOW ARE THE FEES FOR INTERPRETING AND TRANSLATION SERVICES CALCULATED?

  • Interpreters normally calculate their fees on a daily basis. Besides the actual interpretation, these also cover the cost of the thorough subject-related  and terminological preparation as well as travel time up to a working day of 8 hours. Longer working days as well as arrival and departure days may be calculated additionaly. Travel expenses, meals and accommodation (if applicable) are also covered by the customer.
  • Translation fees are generally calculated by standard line, which consists of 55 characters including blanks. The final price depends on the subject of the text, the grade of difficulty and, if applicable, urgency. With some kinds of translation, prices per page or flat rates are possible.

 

I WOULD LIKE MY EVENT TO BE INTERPETED. WHICH EQUIPMENT DO I NEED?

  • At least one soundproof interpreting booth pro language is required for simultaneous interpreting. The booths are equipped with interpreting consoles, headsets, microphones, suitable lighting and any other elements needed for the given assignment. Should the venue not have stationary booths, I will be happy to order mobile booths from an experienced and reliable technology provider. In some cases, it is advisable to use a mobile unit. I will be happy to help you find the equipment best suited to the needs of your particular event.

 

WHAT INFORMATION DO THE INTEREPRETERS NEED TO PREPARE FOR THE CONFERENCE?

  • To guarantee the highest quality of interpreting, the interpreters need sufficient preparatory material, ideally at least two weeks in advance. This can include programs, drafts of speeches and presentations, but also e.g. instructions about company-specific terminology or other relevant information.
  • As final versions of presentations and speeches are often ready on a very short notice, drafts can also be used for preparation – if in doubt, an interpreter will prefer a draft in advance to a finished text a day before the conference.
  • As a professional conference interpreter, I am bound by data protection regulations and professional secrecy and treat your materials confidentially.