FAQ: Interpreting

1. Do I need an interpreter or a translator?

Interpretation generally refers to the oral transfer of a source language into a target language, while the term translation applies to the written transfer from one language into another. Therefore, if you have individuals who speak different languages, but need to communicate face to face, you need an interpreter. If you have written materials in one language that need to be in another language, you need a translator.

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2. Do you have certified interpreters?

Generally, interpreter certification is not standardized in the United States. Because of this, we carefully screen each interpreter with whom we work to ensure they have the qualifications and skills necessary to be a professional interpreter.

However, there are two ways for an interpreter to become certified in the state of Washington. The Department of Social & Health Services (DSHS) provides a certification program for an interpreter who wishes to become DSHS Certified as a medical or community interpreter. Also, an interpreter can become Court Certified through the Washington State Administrator for the Courts. There are ten languages that are currently court certifiable (Arabic, Cambodian, Cantonese, Korean, Lao, Mandarin, Russian, Somali, Spanish and Vietnamese).

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3. What is the difference between consecutive and simultaneous interpreting?

There are two main types of interpreting: consecutive and simultaneous (also called conference).

Consecutive is most often requested. This mode of interpreting is when a speaker speaks in concise phrases, pausing frequently to allow the interpreter to interpret each phrase to the listener. This is commonly used in medical and legal situations.

Simultaneous interpreting is used regularly in formal business conferences and sometimes in legal settings. The interpreter interprets everything as it is being spoken, just a second or two behind the speaker. Those in the audience who need interpretation have earpieces with a feed of the interpreter's voice. This mode of interpreting usually requires a team of at least two interpreters for each language being interpreted and frequent breaks are necessary for the interpreters to maintain a high level of accuracy. The Academy seeks to uphold the professional standards set by the International Association of Conference Interpreters for conference interpreting.

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4. Why should I use Academy of Languages to find an interpreter?

The Academy of Languages offers you a sense of security, knowing that we have screened the interpreters with whom we work to make sure they are truly qualified. We will facilitate all interpreter coordination for you.

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5. To what types of assignments do you send interpreters?

We arrange interpreters for all kinds of medical, legal, business and personal assignments, as well as conferences and seminars.

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6. Can you send an interpreter right away?

Interpreters are not always available on demand. We believe that scheduling an appointment for a time when we can have a qualified and professional interpreter available will save you time and money. We will do everything we can to come through on last minute requests, but often interpreters are simply not available on short notice.

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7. Can interpreters make phone calls rather than meeting in person?

If the message is brief enough and mundane (such as confirming an appointment), we can simply convey it by separate phone calls. We can arrange for a conference call between our client, our interpreter, and the non-English speaker if the information is very lengthy; however, in person is generally more effective.

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8. Can our client's relative help with interpreting?

We recommend upholding professional standards of communication to ensure accuracy. With a relative you will most likely receive a biased or emotional interpretation. In medical and legal situations it is especially important not to involve relatives (including children) as interpreters because they are not professionals and do not have a working understanding of the terminology involved.

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9. Do you have Sign Language interpreters?

No, we do not. This service maybe found through various local agencies.

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