3 things you need to know about translation and interpreting
Finding a translator or an interpreter to suit your requirements can be a difficult task. This blog covers 3 key points you need to know about in the world of translation and interpreting. This article gives you great insights.
This article has been co-authored with Sana Sattar.
(1) What is the difference between translation and interpreting?
Translation
Translation and interpretation services cross various domains. The need is everywhere — from business conferences to legal paperwork and scientific research.
The job of a translator is to convert written texts into another language. Many translators tend to work in their native language. The job is high in demand in the private, academic and public sectors. Different types of translation need the ability to write in different styles.
Translators specialise in one or more sectors, as the terminology differs across sectors. To name but a few — medicine, law and engineering are high in demand.
A qualified translator requires degree-level fluency in his or her chosen language. They also need sound knowledge of culture and attitudes tied to their working languages.
Interpreting and Conference Interpreting
An interpreter’s work involves spoken-word. He or she interprets from one language into another and vice versa. There are also different types of interpretation which you can have a taste of here.
The job entails rigorous training and degree-level ability to converse in both languages. Further post-graduate training is often needed to meet a high level of expertise and become a simultaneous or conference interpreter.
Like translation, the profession is in demand across various settings. This can range from freelance interpreting in court hearings to business and medical conferences.
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A conference interpreter performs UN-style type of simultaneous translation. They hear the speaker and translate shortly afterwards. It is a highly-skilled job. Check out this interesting video to find out more.
To find out more about how an interpreter works in a press conference, for instance, read about interpreting on a press conference on an invitation to combat the Zika virus here.
(2) What qualifications are required to become a translator or a conference interpreter?
The International Association of Conference Interpreters (AIIC) and Institute of Translation and Interpreting (ITI) are reputable professional associations which recognise highly-skilled translators and interpreters.
Memberships to professional associations provide an extra endorsement for clients hiring a translator or a face-to-face or conference interpreter.
In 2007, I was the winner of the ITI AWARDS in the Best Performance on an Interpreting Assignment, receiving the trophy at the Institute’s international conference and gala dinner in Cardiff, Wales, on 19 May.
The judges recognised my achievements in interpreting at a series of events and media interviews for Amnesty International around the launch of a report entitled You killed my son on homicides committed by the military police in Rio de Janeiro.
(3) What are the most requested languages in the UK market and globally?
Translators and interpreters must also be aware of hot topics in the sector. This awareness gives a holistic approach to the job. There are plenty of ways to broaden and reinforce knowledge of the field.
Countries with fast-growing economies invest more in translation and interpretation services. In 2001, these comprised of BRIC countries (Brazil, Russia, India and China). More recently, they include the MINT countries (Mexico, Indonesia, Nigeria and Turkey).
Translators and Interpreters need to be aware of the languages that are most in demand. For example, in 2013 Polish was the most requested language in the UK in NHS maternity units — read more about this here.
Linguistic associations and several universities also organise courses and networking events. These are a great way to enrich subject knowledge.
The infographic below summarises all you have read so far.
Translation and Interpretation are vast fields. Explore my blog to find out. Here you will find a hub of useful information at your fingertips. Feel free to divulge and read! Thank you.
