Given the increasingly interconnected nature of today’s workspaces, you probably have co-workers who also speak more than one language. Although that can be beneficial for day-to-day communication, there are times when professional interpreters are not just helpful — they’re needed. Professional interpreters offer specialized training and accuracy, as well as ethical considerations that go far beyond what bilingual staff are usually able to provide.
Here’s more about when and why you should use professional interpreters rather than relying only on bilingual employees.
When It’s Really Important to be Accurate and Precise
In cases like in courtrooms, the doctor’s office or negotiation tables where millions of dollars can be at stake, even the slightest misinterpretation challenges ones fate. If you are professional interpreter, you should know how to interpret with 100% accuracy (Tone of voice, Context and Meaning). With bilingual employees who don’t always have a technical or industry knowledge as good as it could be, interpreters make sure none of the words are lost in translation.
When Confidentiality Matters
Not all bilingual staff members are necessarily under confidentially clauses, a risky proposition with sensitive information. Trained interpreters strictly follows ethical guidelines and confidentiality policy. That is why they are perfect for use with sensitive client data, court evidence, patient information as well as any other sensitive work materials.
When Cultural Nuances Are Important
Interpretation is more than translating words — it’s about culture centric interpretation services are taught to identify and convey cultural subtleties that may change the meaning or tone. This skill is especially useful in international meet-ups, community engagement, or diplomatic events where cultural sensitivity makes it easier to create a connection and prevent any misunderstandings.
When you Must Translate on the Fly
In live events, such as conferences, workshops or multilingual business meetings, real-time communication is important. Interpreting professionals are trained in both simultaneous and consecutive interpretation, which ensures the conversation will go on smoothly and efficiently. Bilingual staff, however, may not be trained to manage the pressure and pace of live interpretation.
When Speaking on or Discussing Highly Specialized or Technical Topics
The field of law, medicine, technology and finance may be full of complex terms. A bilingual worker may speak both languages, but have no knowledge of the subject area to properly translate technical terms. Professional interpreters sometimes have industry-specific training to convey each technical term correctly.
When You need to keep it professional
Hiring a professional interpreter demonstrates your dedication to clear, respectful communication. It avoids placing bilingual employees in awkward or unofficial positions and enables them to concentrate on their actual duties. It helps add an air of professionalism and extends your organization’s brand as one that is inclusive and knows what it’s doing.
Conclusion
Bilingual staff are beneficial to have in any given organization, but their language skills shouldn’t be relied upon instead of utilizing a professional interpreter when accuracy, confidentiality and professionalism are at risk.
Professional interpreters make sure nothing gets lost in translation — no errors, and no cultural faux pas. So whether you’re planning a worldwide conference, handling confidential communications with customers, or finding your way through legal or medical discussions, hiring an interpreter is the smart move for clear and accurate language interpretation.