If you ever had a chance to work with a foreign client, you know how challenging it can be to interpret what they say. Now, bring in a person who can act as a translator- someone to sit by your side, or remotely, and communicate to you what your foreign client means by his expression. How relieving does that sound? That’s the same feeling you get when you work with the right interpretation company.
But, finding them isn’t as easy as firing a Google search and picking up the first one. Choosing to work with an interpretation company means you trust them for your future business deals. And if they’re anything short than meticulous, you better prepare for the worst. This article will walk you through some important points to remember when deciding to hire an interpreting company.
Decide what you’re looking for
Most people would be confused if we said there are two different things when it comes to interpretation services. A person can be a good translator but cannot be a good interpreter at the same time. To understand this, you’ll need to understand the difference between an interpreter and a translator.
While the services of the latter can be used to convert the text in one language into another, services of the former can be sought if you are looking to instantly and effectively communicate with the other person. That being said, an interpreter can convey the meaning and nuance in the spoken word instantly while a translator may miss out on that. Therefore, before you actually make the hiring decision, take some time out to contemplate your expectations.
Choosing the right kind
Most interpretation services provider companies like InterpretCloud offer a choice between consecutive and simultaneous interpretation. In consecutive interpretation, an interpreter will wait till the speaker has finished while in case of simultaneous interpretation, the interpreter will translate the words in real-time. Now, making a choice largely depends on the speed of exchange and your personal preferences. You might only want a translator for a single conference like an event, or interview, which means you’ll need someone with intermediate experience. While for long-term or professional business meetings like requirements, you might need help from an expert. Taking these things into account will help you come up with a sound decision about the choice of the interpretation company you should go for.
Ask for Testimonials
So, you have made up your mind about hiring an interpretation company. But wait, there’s more to it than meets the eye. A qualified interpretation services provider will have a record of testimonials or reviews from its past clients that you can take a look at. And while you are going through them, you can also ask their previous clients about their experience working with this company. This is a proven way you can get details about how the process worked for someone who’s already been there. Furthermore, this will help develop a picture of the two of you working together if ever you hire them.
Make sure the interpreting company understands your needs
Just like it is important for you to understand how things would work for you, it is for the company to understand your particular requirements. If the area of your operations is something highly technical or complex for that matter, let your interpretation company know that in advance. While the interpreting person need not be an expert in that field, doing some homework would not do any harm. Plus, any background information or context you want them to keep in mind, will only add to the quality of services you receive in the future.
Signing an Agreement
Once you get a green light from your interpretation services provider company, make sure you propose an agreement that clearly states the terms and conditions of the service. Since you have your expectations and they have their parameters, make sure everything is clearly indicated in the terms of the agreement. Include peculiar details like the hourly rate or contract charges, and the length of the contract, so both of you are clear about things.
The final word
Choosing the right interpretation services company does not have to be a hassle. It is important that you take time to weigh your expectations so they match with the nature of the services that an interpretation company provides. InterpretCloud is a leading interpretation services company that caters to your specific needs effectively. For interpreting services that are second to none, you can reach out to our team at any time.
