Speaking Through an Interpreter

Tips For Service Providers

Interpreters Niagara-Hamilton provides competent, government-trained interpreters to facilitate communication between you and your client. Here are some suggestions to help you to maximum the benefits of speaking through these interpreters:

·    Schedule adequate time for the session. The interpreter will be repeating everything you say.  

• Allow the interpreter to introduce himself/herself both to you and to the client. Trained interpreters will state that their role is as a transmitter of information, not its source. They will assure everyone present of the confidentiality of the interview and of their impartiality.
   
• Address yourself to the client, not to the interpreter. Speak directly to the client, without phrases such as "Ask him", "Tell her", "Find out if…"  etc.
   
• Introduce yourself clearly in terms of your role as a service provider. (Your agency may not exist in the client's country, or it may have a very different function than in Canada.)
   
• Speak distinctly, as if your remarks were being transcribed on tape. You do not need to slow down excessively, but you do need to pause frequently.
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• Regulate the pace of the conversation by speaking a sentence or two at a time, followed by a space for the interpreter to repeat your words.
   
• It is your responsibility (not the interpreter's) to ensure that your message is comprehensible, so use plain language and monitor the client's reactions.
   
• Respect the interpreter's need take notes or to use a hand signal to stop the dialogue as necessary
   
• Hand documents directly to the client, and if a signature is required, have the interpreter provide a sight translation.  Confirm that names have been correctly transcribed.

When speaking through an interpreter, AVOID -

·        Side conversations with the interpreter. (Clients often understand some English and may misconstrue your remarks. If they understand nothing, they may react with fear or suspicion.)  

·        Impatience / raised volume. Try not to rush, or cut down on your explanations to save time.  Speaking more loudly serves no function; speaking clearly is the main thing. 

·        Professional jargon and abbreviations - these may cause confusion or  misunderstanding. You may need to explain program names or acronyms familiar to most of your other clients. 

·        Delegating duties to the interpreter. (Competent interpreters will only repeat what you say. They are not permitted to take on responsibilities such as filling out forms, explaining agency information or referring to other services.)

Interpreting is a skill, developed through hours of training and practice. A competent interpreter will be pleased to put you at your ease in communicating with your non-English-speaking client. Relax and conduct the interview at your own pace and with your own style - the interpreter is part of your service team and will act as your own voice.                  

                                                                                                                                                                      ©2004 J. Rinker