Conference interpretation

Contrary to a widely held belief, the aptitudes required to work as a conference interpreter go far beyond mere language skills. The latter are a sine qua non but not sufficient to become a conference interpreter. Many people are unclear as to the difference between an interpreter and a translator. While these two professions are related, owing in particular to the intellectual process involved, they remain quite different in practical terms.

Interpreters render oral statements in different languages. They must have great analytical skills, be capable of quickly seizing the main points, in addition to perfect mastery of the languages concerned. In any speech, a considerable part of the message is not stated, but remains implicit. Interpreters must render this intangible content through broad general culture and rigorous preparation of the subject. They must also be able to cope with considerable stress in order to keep pace, where necessary, with a fast speaker. Given the special profile of this profession and the fact that it is not regulated, we advise recruiters to pay special attention to the choice of interpreters and to obtain guarantees in terms of both quality and professionalism, such as:
 

• membership of AIIC

• references in the area addressed by the congress

• aptitudes to deal with a given topic