Chuchotage interpretation (or whispering interpretation as it is sometimes called) is the more informal of the two approaches. With this type of liaison interpreting, the interpreter sits next to his client (or a small audience) and provides simultaneous interpretations of what is being said Traduttore simultaneo. Chuchotage liaison interpreting is more common in situations where there is only a tiny minority that does not speak the general language at the meeting. Because of the reduced number, communication equipments such as headphones or microphones are rarely employed.
The second method that can be used by liaison interpreters is consecutive interpreting. During consecutive interpreting, the interpreter translates what is being said in different segments typically after a few sentences. The speaker in turn waits for the interpreter to translate what he has just said before progressing. To make the process less tedious, professional interpreters often take notes of what is being said so that the speaker can talk for a longer stretch before waiting for the obligatory translation.
Still, even with the best liaison interpreting services, consecutive interpretations are rarely used in events where the speech or message will be longer than 20 minutes because of the toll that it can have on the listeners. In such instances, simultaneous interpreting is usually the more preferred option.
Regardless of the type of liaison interpreting that is done, it is vital that the interpreter have good listening skills. This way they are able to understand and assimilate what is being said in the shortest possible time. Liaison interpreters also need to have impressive mental recall to keep track of what is being said while simultaneously attending to their target audience. Needless to say this isn’t always easy.
The only way of ensuring that you get reliable liaison interpreting service is to hire a professional agency that can guarantee such results. You can learn more about the credibility of a company by contacting some of their past clients. Ask the agency that you wish to work with to provide you with references that you can use. When you speak to their former clients be sure to ask questions about the attitude of the interpreters that they worked with. Good social skills and civility are equally important assets.
The one factor that should not weigh in too heavily in your decision is the price of the interpreters. Like most professional services, you’re bound to come across a broad range of rates during your search for professional interpreters. Do not focus on only the lowest prices. Instead, look for interpreters who offer a healthy blend of price and quality. In the end, that’s the secret to getting the best experience.