How to work with an interpreter
Working with an interpreter helps you communicate effectively with people who speak a different language to you. Interpreters are not a participant in the conversation; they are a bridge.
An interpreter certified by NAATI will:
- prepare for the assignment by researching the topic based on the briefing they receive
- interpret everything accurately and impartially
- not add, omit or change information, and will not give opinions, advice or explanations
- ask for clarification or repetition if needed to ensure accuracy
- manage situations where people talk over each other
- keep all information about the assignment confidential, including everything discussed during the session.
Treat them with respect and follow these guidelines to ensure a professional experience for everyone involved.
Before the session
Choose the right interpreting mode and location
When booking an interpreter, confirm which mode will be used and how you expect the interpreter to participate, and ensure the appropriate equipment is in place. If you’re unsure, your language service provider or the interpreter can advise on the best approach.
Interpreting mode
Consecutive interpreting: The interpreter waits for the speaker to pause before interpreting what was said. This mode is commonly used in appointments or small meetings. The session will take about twice as long as a conversation in one language, so allow extra time in your schedule.
Simultaneous interpreting: The interpreter translates in real time, usually using specialised equipment like headsets or interpreting booths. This mode works best for larger meetings, conferences or group discussions where you need to maintain the flow of communication. Because this is mentally demanding work, it’s recommended to have at least two interpreters who can alternate to maintain accuracy and avoid fatigue.
Interpreting delivery
Face-to-face (onsite or in-person): Face-to-face interpreting is best for complex situations as it allows for non-verbal cues like body language. It means the interpreter will be in the room with you. Availability may be limited in rural or regional areas and in some languages.
Video: Video interpreting is second-best to face-to-face interpreting as they will still see non-verbal cues from the participants. Video interpreting is useful when onsite interpreters are unavailable, especially for short notice bookings or hard-to-source languages. Video interpreting is suitable for Auslan and spoken languages, but requires reliable internet and proper equipment.
Telephone: Phone interpreting is the most easily available form of interpreting. It it most useful for short, non-complex communication.
Choose the right interpreter
- Make sure the interpreter is NAATI-certified. You can check a NAATI certification using their Certified Practitioner Number (CPN).
- Don’t use family or friends as interpreters, even if it feels convenient. They may lack impartiality, training or language skills. This can risk confidentiality, accuracy and professionalism.
- Confirm the interpreter meets the needs of the assignment. Do you need an interpreter who is a certain gender? Do they need to have expertise in a specific domain, such as health or legal?
Brief the interpreter
Whenever possible, provide a briefing to the interpreter before the assignment. A briefing is where you share the purpose of the meeting, who will be present and any key details the interpreter should know. Even a brief conversation with the interpreter beforehand can mean fewer interruptions and smoother communication.
A briefing can include:
- Providing background information about the topic, goals and participants.
- Advise any technical language, specialised terminology or specific jargon so the interpreter can prepare to interpret it accurately.
- Letting them know if the meeting will be emotional, technical or sensitive.
If the assignment is complex, allow the interpreter enough notice to prepare and research if possible. This preparation helps ensure accurate interpretation and reduces the interpreter’s workload during the session.
Plan the logistics
Face-to-face interpreting requires you, the interpreter and the client to be physically present in the same location. Arrange seating so the patient, interpreter and clinician form a triangle. This promotes clear communication and ensures everyone is included.
For Auslan interpreting: The interpreter should sit or stand next to the healthcare professional and opposite the patient. This enables the Deaf patient to maintain eye contact with the speaker and observe body language. For longer sessions, two interpreters may alternate.
Telephone and videoconferencing allow flexibility—the interpreter or client may be present with you, or each person can be in a separate location. Make sure the technology is working properly before the session begins.
Remember to allow extra time for interpreting. Conversations will take longer than they would in a single language.
During the session
What to do
- Make sure the interpreter and their role is introduced. You can start with a simple statement like: “This is our interpreter, who will help us communicate today. Everything we say will be interpreted accurately and confidentially.” The interpreter may introduce themselves. Remind participants that the interpreter will speak in the first person (i.e. “I”, “we”) to maintain natural conversation flow.
- Speak directly to the other person, not the interpreter. Say “How are you feeling today?” not “Ask her how she’s feeling.” Maintain eye contact with the other person unless this is culturally inappropriate.
- Use clear, simple language. Avoid slang, jargon, acronyms or complex comparisons. Pause regularly to allow time for interpretation.
- Let the interpreter finish before continuing. This ensures accuracy and prevents information overload.
- Be patient. Some languages require more or fewer words to express the same meaning. Some silences during interpretation is normal.
- Clarify as needed. If something seems unclear, ask the interpreter to repeat or explain. Encourage the interpreter to speak up if they need something clarified. If the interpreter needs clarification, ask them to inform the other person what they are asking.
What to avoid
- Don’t interrupt the interpreter or other person mid-sentence. Interruptions can lead to confusion or miscommunication.
- Don’t ask the interpreter for opinions or advice. Their role is to interpret, not to mediate, advocate or give personal views.
- Don’t engage in side conversations with the interpreter. The interpreter will interpret everything you say, so don’t say anything you don’t want interpreted into the other language.
After the session
- Debrief if necessary. Talk with the interpreter if any issues came up or if feedback is needed. Be open to suggestions for improvement. Interpreters work with many professionals and can provide helpful advice to improve communication in future sessions.
- Maintain confidentiality. Treat interpreted sessions the same way you would treat any direct communication. All information shared remains confidential.
Additional resources
For more information on working with interpreters, visit:
