Since global businesses need to communicate with audiences in multiple languages, the value of interpreting services soon becomes clear. However, it isn’t only multinational companies that rely on them. Regulated industries also have a duty to communicate with all of their users or customers.
The use of interpreters has economic and legal benefits, showing that the value of this work cannot be overstated. It’s essential to note, though, that it isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. With that in mind, let’s explore the types of services and how to implement them. You’ll also gain insight into best practices, bilingual communication strategies, and choosing a provider.
Types of Interpreting Services
The industry, the situation, and the needs of the people involved determine what kind of interpreting is required. All interpreting services involve listening and communicating the same information in another language. However, the way that is done can vary. Here are six in-demand types used across a variety of industries.
Simultaneous Interpreting
Simultaneous interpreting happens in real time. It means that as the speaker talks, the interpreter supplies the interpretation in the required language. To make the process smoother simultaneous interpreting technology is used, including special headsets and microphones. It’s often used at conferences, where interpreters sit in soundproof booths. High-stakes meetings also benefit from this type of service, where concentration is required.
Consecutive Interpreting
Consecutive interpreting is an alternative to simultaneous language interpretation services. It doesn’t happen in real time. Instead, there are pauses in the speech to allow the interpreter to provide the translation. It can involve note-taking and a higher degree of accuracy. For that reason, it’s often chosen for healthcare, legal settings, negotiations, and one-on-one meetings.
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On-Site Interpreting
Many situations require a seamless approach and a personal touch. That’s what on-site interpreting services deliver. It allows for face-to-face communication at a variety of events. Some examples are workshops and community meetings. Language Network is a leading on-site interpreting company that provides services in courtrooms, boardrooms, and hospitals.
Remote Interpreting
Attending in person isn’t always possible or the best option. In those cases, remote interpreting for businesses is the ideal service. Over-the-phone interpreting (OPI) is a useful way to overcome language barriers quickly, with interpreters available 24/7. Along with prioritizing accessibility, these options, including video remote interpreting (VRI), are also cost-effective.
Conference Interpreting
International summits, global business meetings, and large-scale presentations require a specific approach. That’s where conference interpreting comes in. It specializes in communicating ideas to large groups of people. Conference interpreting solutions can use consecutive, simultaneous, or whispered interpreting. Each solution increases participation and navigates cultural nuances.
American Sign Language Interpreting
There are also interpreting services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. These services can occur in person, virtually, or with a remote video connection. At Language Network, ASL interpreters specialize in different industries and event types. It means matches are tailored to the situation, ensuring professionalism and effective communication.
Common Use Cases Across Industries
In each industry, the terminology, settings, and event types differ. There are appropriate interpreting services for each occasion. The best option depends on the number of people involved and the requirements. Speed, accuracy, confidentiality, compliance, and subtlety are all factors to consider. By looking at the key industries, you can understand the common uses of each type.
Healthcare
Interpreters work in hospitals, clinics, and other institutions, assisting with language access in healthcare. These settings can include medical conferences, discharge from hospitals, medical consultations, and more. These specialized services focus on confidentiality and compliance with HIPAA regulations. A key requirement is knowledge of the relevant medical terms to communicate details relating to diagnoses, tests, treatments, and procedures.
Insurance
In this field, interactions frequently occur over the phone, so remote services are often used. Interpreters assist companies in explaining policies in the target language. Other key areas for the service are assisting with multilingual customer support and claims processing.
Finance
In the finance industry, a range of interactions occur, including B2B and B2C meetings, large conferences, and one-on-one encounters. These situations typically require a range of on-site, over-the-phone, and video remote interpreting. An important consideration is regulatory compliance in global markets. Common scenarios include investment meetings, bank branch appointments, forecasting meetings, and mergers.
Education
Another area where language access is crucial is education. The type of interpreting services used can match the format. For example, for online learning accessibility, video remote interpreting works well. In schools and higher education institutions, multilingual student support in classrooms and parent-teacher meetings are common use cases.
Government
Ensuring equal access is crucial in any government office. Interpreters are often used in public services, which can occur on-site or remotely. Professionalism, sensitivity, and confidentiality are required. Common use scenarios include community meetings, international diplomatic relations, and public service points.
Benefits of Professional Interpreters
Interpreting in government and business settings requires accuracy. For that reason, working with professionals delivers the best results. The benefits of hiring professional interpreters are wide-reaching in every area of the organization. Let’s look at the most prominent advantages and some examples.
Working with professionals:
- Increases accessibility
- Enhances communication in international markets
- Ensures compliance and accuracy in sensitive industries
Let’s look at research into the use of trained professional interpreters in hospitals. One particular study shows a positive impact on clinical care. It’s associated with decreased disparities between patients with a language barrier and those without.
A case study from Washington University showed how an ASL interpreter helped a medical school student participate in classes and clinical rotations. Thanks to direct training from the professor, the interpreter was equipped to help with assessments. For example, the interpreter assisted with listening to heart and lung function for diagnosis.
Best Practices for Integrating Interpreting Services
Now that you’ve seen the benefits of working with professionals, you’ll be keen to explore what’s next. The implementation stage is your chance to establish a smooth experience with positive outcomes. As part of the process, you’ll consider several factors, including compliance in interpreting services.
Let’s look at best practices for interpreting in big companies:
- Leveraging technology and AI-powered solutions. – Stay ahead of the curve, get the best outcomes, and keep costs down.
- Compliance and security considerations. – Ensure your partnership enhances instead of hinders compliance by prioritizing GDPR, HIPAA, and ISO standards.
- Localization strategies for global market penetration. – Language barriers aren’t the only consideration. Localize to communicate in a relatable way with your audience, including conforming to cultural contexts.
Selecting the Right Interpreting Service Provider
The right interpreting services won’t be the same for everyone, and the provider you choose also depends on your needs. The most effective way to get a good match is to reflect on your goals and set out your criteria for the right interpreter or agency.
We recommend focusing on providers with an industry specialization to match your niche. Additionally, look at their technological capabilities. These affect the speed, accuracy, and cost. Finally, think about your growth projection. Ideally, you’ll want a provider to grow with you without costing too much now, so look at scalability and cost-effectiveness.
Here’s a step-by-step checklist to use during the decision-making process.
- Review the languages and services available
- Check for expertise and experience in your industry
- Find out what tools, AI, and other technological approaches they use
- Review your options for future expansion
- Check the costs and your budget
- Request testimonials
Set Up for Success
You have all the information you need to start the process and achieve success. Understanding the benefits of interpreting services is the initial step. They lead to compliance, inclusivity, and a way to reach more audiences globally.
Choosing the right service is paramount. During the decision-making process, you get to impact whether they understand your industry, use the best tools for the job, and can grow with you. Whether you need corporate translation and interpretation, conference interpreting, or an ASL interpreter, explore Language Network’s services today.