A GUIDE TO USING INTERPRETERS FOR SOLICITORS
Allow the interpreter to introduce themselves
Communicating with a client through an interpreter can feel strange at first but we have some tips to help you to get the most out of using an interpreter. At the beginning of each session, allow time for the interpreter to explain their role to your client and perform some comprehension checks. This can help all parties to understand their roles and help the session to run smoothly with no issues.
Be mindful of how you speak
You should speak in full sentences however try to keep sentences short. Always speak clearly but in a normal tone. Also a normal pace and try to avoid the use of metaphors, acronyms, slang, or idioms if possible. You should also advise your client to do the same. Short sentences and clear speaking can help with the accuracy of interpreting. You should also be aware of difficult conversation points such as switching topics suddenly or needing to explain something at length. These types of things often lead solicitors to forget that they should be speaking in short sentences.
Connect with your client directly
Make sure you are offering the same level of service as you would with any other client. You should speak directly to your client “Could you please tell me how” instead of asking the interpreter “Could you ask them to tell me about”. The interpreter is there to interpret and provide understanding but is not a party in the conversation.
Don’t worry about the conversation between the client and the interpreter
Sometimes the length of the conversation in another language can seem as if it doesn’t match up to what you have said or asked, but this is perfectly normal. The interpreter and your client may need to clarify meaning or explain in linguistic terms between themselves, similarly, an interpreter may also ask for clarification on something. This is acceptable and to avoid the potential of misinterpretation. You can ask the interpreter what was said, and you are entitled to know the full extent of the conversation.
IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR AN INTERPRETER, AQUA INTERPRETING GROUP HAS A RANGE OF HIGHLY QUALIFIED TRANSLATORS AND INTERPRETERS SPEAKING OVER 350+ LANGUAGES AND DIALECTS. EACH MEMBER OF OUR TEAM IS CAREFULLY SELECTED ON A BASIS OF QUALIFICATION, EXPERIENCE, AND PROFESSIONALISM. ALL OUR LINGUISTS ARE PROFESSIONAL, QUALIFIED, FAMILIAR WITH DIFFERENT CULTURES, AND HAVE EXPERIENCE WORKING WITH DIFFERENT CULTURES AND SENSITIVE ISSUES. THIS ENSURES THAT WE CAN PROVIDE RELIABLE LANGUAGE INTERPRETING AND TRANSLATION SERVICES.
