Guide to Buying Interpreting Services, Part III: Working with an Interpreter

Interpreters help power the global economy, working with businesses, governments, non-profits and individuals. They are an integral part of global communication. Interpreters work with the spoken or signed word. The American Translators Association (ATA) has developed a Guide to Buying Interpreting Services as a resource to help clients identify, select and work with interpreters.

Working with an Interpreter

Properly preparing to work with an interpreter is key to a positive outcome. The more information you are able to provide upfront, the more successful your collaboration will be. Follow the guidelines below to get started.

• Define Your Scope
• What languages need interpretation?
• Is a specific dialect or variant required?
• When and where will the interpreting take place (date, time and location)?
• What subject matter will be addressed?
• What is the expected duration of the interpreting session?
• Assignments lasting more than one hour typically require two interpreters.
• Preparation
  • Share as much information as possible so the interpreter can become familiar with the subject matter being discussed
  • Provide video or audio recordings of previous events so the interpreter can become familiar with the speaker(s)
  • Decide on video conferencing tools, booth equipment and portable audio equipment so the interpreter is prepared to use the proper technology
• Budget
  • The cost of interpreting services can vary considerably
  • Factors that may impact price include language pair, services requested, complexity, subject matter and how many interpreters are needed for the event
  • Interpreters may charge by the hour, half day, full day or a flat fee
  • Minimum fees and cancellation fees are standard
  • Requesting a quote from multiple providers is a good way to explore pricing options
• Communication
  • Designate a contact person for questions
  • Communicate acceptance of the service provider’s quote
  • Confirm schedule and acceptance of work
  • Update interpreter of any changes
  • Manage invoicing and payment
  • Provide constructive feedback to the interpreter

Additional ATA Resources

The ATA Compass Blog

ATA Media Kit

Press Releases

This is the third article in a series of articles introducing the American Translators Association’s Guide to Buying Interpreting Services, which was created to help those in need of interpreting services find the best provider for their project and work efficiently with the chosen interpreting provider. For the full guide, click here.

About the Authors

Eve Bodeux is an ATA-certified French to English translator specialized in tech marketing, commercial communications, marketing research and official documents. She is the Secretary of the American Translators Association and serves on the ATA Public Relations Committee.

Jamie Hartz is an ATA-certified Spanish to English translator and transcriber specialized in legal and commercial translations. She currently serves as the Chair of the ATA Public Relations Committee.