(Last Updated On: June 10, 2015)

 There are different types of interpreting

Although there are different types of interpreting available, phone interpretation is usually the best choice for emergency calls. The interpreter can provide interpretation at once, and it does not matter in which part of the world. As the technology is constantly improving, it is very easy to establish a conference call with the interpreter very quickly.

Telephone interpreting provides many types of interpreting, and it is very needed in unexpected situations or events where language can become an obstacle in business negotiation or even in urgent accident cases.

Simultaneous interpretation

It is the best of the many types of interpreting for larger online meetings and conferences. Simultaneous interpretation requires special tools, because the entire process is performed via microphone to the team, and from soundproof booth. The interpretation they provide is transmitted to the clients through their headsets.

If the meeting or a conference is longer than thirty minutes, usually two or more interpreters are needed to take turns. During free time, another interpreter stays in the booth and prepares for the following speech in case the other interpreter needs help. Simultaneous interpreting is in huge demand, and requires a high level of education, training, preparations and knowledge.

This type of interpretation is mostly used for certain cases: in conference settings, in which the interpreter performs the interpretation from the soundproof booth from which he can see the speakers, and the interpretation is provided via microphone and clients’ headsets. In cases of press conferences, smaller events, or tour groups, simultaneous interpreting is better performed by using portable tools. When there are only one or two clients present at corporate dinners or other business events, it is much better to use consecutive interpreting or whispering.

Consecutive interpretation

The second of the many types of interpreting. This is the most efficient type of interpretation for meetings and presentations with a small number of clients. A good interpreter must possess perfect concentration, comprehension and memory. The most common situations where consecutive interpreting is needed are question-answer situations, press conferences, speeches, courts, conference calls and interviews. The consecutive interpreter writes down the details while the speaker speaks, and after the speaker finishes the segment, he/she provides an interpretation. The interpretation is performed after proper intervals during the speech. No tools are required during consecutive interpretation.

 Community Interpreting

This form is also called bilateral interpreting. That form is used mostly for informal events, smaller meetings, and court interpretation. This type involves interpreting on a one-to-one basis where the interpreter provides the meaning and connection between the two languages and for two or more people. It is commonly used for community interpretations, at the request of lawyers, doctors, social services and other institutions. It can be also used as a form of phonetic interpretation.

The above are the most common types of interpreting that are largely used today. It is up to you to choose the best that applies to your needs.