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Interpreters are in high demand across the globe.
Unlike translators, they don’t spend hours at a desk surrounded by dictionaries and language books. They are out there in the field, in the thick of the conversations. They serve are facilitators of smooth communication, one which transcends language and other barriers.
This may all sound very exciting and inviting to you.
To become an interpreter, however, you have to understand the education, skill, and training requirements. A knack for learning foreign languages is just the first step on a long journey. The good news is we’ve got you covered.
Here is a blueprint for building a successful interpreter career in 2020 and beyond.
Interpretation in a Nutshell
Interpreters translate spoken (or signed) words from one language to another.
The two main types of interpretation are consecutive and simultaneous. They fit different kinds of situations and contexts. Simultaneous one tends to be more challenging.
The first things that pop to mind are diplomatic conferences, business meetings, and busy courtrooms. But, there are also innovative tends like on-demand, phone interpretation services.
So, professional interpreters operate across industry sectors, such as education, government, and healthcare. They travel long distances and traverse cultural and other borders.
Their chief mission is to help speakers of two different languages understand each other. Alas, it takes much more than a natural language aptitude and “good ears” to make it happen.
It’s one thing to be able to order a coffee in a certain language. Keeping the pace with its conversational speed and identifying words steeped in the heavy accent—that’s another ballgame entirely.
Therefore, you want to do some self-assessment to see whether this career is really for you. In the next sections, we’re going to cover the main stepping stones to becoming an interpreter.
Laying the Academic Groundwork
A university degree isn’t an absolute must-have.
It’s possible to become an interpreter without it, just having a high-school diploma in hand. However, a Bachelor’s degree is a big asset, which most employers like candidates to have.
This is especially the case with interpreter positions within the government sector.
Ideally, you’re able to acquire a degree in a foreign language or interpreting. Alternatively, some interpreters opt for majors in a related field, such as business administration. There are also those who manage to do a double major (business and German, for example).
Note that study-abroad programs set you up for attaining superior language command. They let you learn the language in its native environment.
One other useful tactic is to customize your curriculum to suit your later career needs.
A Matter of Certification and Training
In general, interpreters don’t have to stress over licensure and certification.
These aren’t formal requirements, albeit there are some exceptions like court interpreting.
Also, notice voluntary certification does exist and that it improves your job prospects. For instance, the American Translators Association offers various exams and certifications.
We would also advise you to match the certification with the specific niche of interpretation you plan to crave out.
This is to say you should consider instances like:
- National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters (NBCMI)
- Certification Commission for Healthcare Interpreters (CCHI)
- National Center for State Courts certificates
Moving on, formal interpreting coursework and training come in very handy.
In many states, community colleges and special schools offer these programs. Some employers hold on-the-job training events as well. Medical or court interpreters gravitate toward this option.
Acquiring an Essential Skill Set
When it comes to skills, the minimum basic requirement is fluency in two languages.
Given enough time, anyone can achieve this goal. That being said, things like grasping grammar rules are harder for some people than the others.
Also, you should attain (near) fluency by the time you finish your bachelor’s program. What foreign language you choose depends on many factors.
They relate to the prospects of landing a job position in your country or aboard. You can hardly go wrong with one of the major world languages (Spanish, Chinese, Arabic, Hindustani, etc.).
In terms of other skills, focus on strong verbal communication. Nurture this skill through constant practice, training, and experience.
Finally, take your time to develop your listening aptitude and cultural sensitivity. They will serve you well in real-life interpretation situations.
Going the Extra Mile
Experience is the crown jewel of any resume.
It bridges the gap between graduation and employment. And the best way to get is volunteering. There’s no shortage of public institutions and businesses looking for amateur volunteer interpreters.
Likewise, you can pursue internship opportunities. Depending on the provider, you could even get paid for your efforts. In any event, you’ll have something approximating actual work experience, which is imperative to employers.
Once you land a job, don’t neglect education—it’s an ongoing study process. Or to put it differently, being fluent in a language isn’t a “one and done” proposition.
Thus, regularly tap into a wealth of different learning opportunities. Maximize your exposure to foreign-language music, video games, TV shows, movies, and books. Take every chance to interact with native speakers.
Check out continuing education training and workshops by the National Association for Interpretation. These are amazing specialization opportunities for fine polishing of your skills. You can also join a professional organization of interpreters to spread your network.
Do everything you can to climb the career ladder faster and rise above the competition.
It’s Time to Become an Interpreter
If you want to become an interpreter, you need to know exactly what you’re getting yourself into.
This isn’t an occasional joyride for language hobbyists, but a huge, long-term commitment.
First of all, you need to decide what sector you want to work in. Then, it’s necessary to tailor your education journey to your career objectives. The next key step is to get some hands-on experience.
Volunteer your time or do internships. Make sure to consume foreign language content and utilize online resources. Put yourself in the context of real conversations to give your skills a workout.
Never stop learning and growing professionally.
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