Simultaneous interpreting services
What?
As the name suggests, providing simultaneous interpreting services means that the interpreter interprets (of course, what else would they be doing?) simultaneously what the speaker is saying, while using headphones to listen to the latter. This kind of interpreting requires special conditions: sound-proof booth, microphone, headphones and ideally visual contact with the speaker – at least through a computer screen.
This type of interpreting has the clear advantage of taking place at the same time as the original speech, but it is also one of the most difficult tasks. The interpreter does not have the chance to ask the speaker for clarification (if needed) or to repeat, so the interpreter has to make sure he or she does not miss any words or important figures/ names. Moreover, while the interpreter is interpreting what the speaker is saying (with a very short delay), he or she is also listening to the next sentence, so they need to focus on two tasks at the same time.This is the reason why a minimum of two interpreters per event is required. They will take turns (approximately half an hour per turn or until the opportunity arises during the speech), allowing one of them to rest while the other is interpreting.
It takes a lot of practice and a perfect grasp of the languages (target and source) to be a good simultaneous interpreter. This is the reason why the rates are higher than those for other types of interpreting..
Where?
Simultaneous interpreting services are most frequently used for seminars, multilingual conferences, TV interviews etc.
Characteristics:
Advantages:
- No time is wasted (the interpreting takes place at the same time as the speech)
- Best means of communication during multilingual events
- Allows any number of listeners
Disadvantages:
- Depending on the duration of the event, at least two interpreters are needed
- Special equipment is required
- It can be costly
How much?
Our rates start from £250. Check our prices for further information.
If you need simultaneous interpreting services, do not hesitate to get in touch to discuss more in detail.
