Interpreting is the oral translation of a speech into one or several languages. The interpreters interpret from a foreign language into their mother tongue. In exceptional cases interpreters may also interpret into a foreign language.

The two types of interpreting

1. Consecutive interpreting

Interpreters render the spoken word after the speaker has finished speaking. To do this, they listen to the speaker while taking notes of the speech and then render their interpretation in another language. Consecutive interpretation is usually delivered in segments of 5–10 minutes. This form of interpreting is used especially for workshops or smaller meetings (e.g., liaison interpreting).

2. Simultaneous interpreting

The interpreters render the spoken word in real time. Participants listen to the interpretation via headphones. Simultaneous interpreting is used in many types of events. There are several options for simultaneous interpreting:

Conference interpreting:
Simultaneous interpreting takes place during multilingual conferences with any number of participants. The interpreters usually sit in a soundproof booth with a view of the stage or participants.

Whisper interpreting (= chuchotage):
The interpreters sit next to or behind a conference, meeting, or event participant and whisper the interpretation either directly into the ear (for one listener) or use a whispering system (for a small group).

Remote interpreting on-site:
An increasing number of events (conferences, guided tours, workshops) are now held digitally. Both consecutive and simultaneous interpreting can be used in these cases. This is also known as distance interpreting or remote interpreting. The interpreters then sit on-site in a HUB, which is a freestanding interpretation booth set up outside of the event venue. Event technology service providers supply this booth and ensure the technical infrastructure, especially a stable and secure internet connection.

Remote interpreting from a home office:
Interpreters work from home. Communication tools such as MS Teams or Zoom offer various language channels that enable remote interpreting. In this case, interpreters are independently responsible for their technical equipment (e.g., a stable internet connection).

Simultaneous interpretation options at a glance

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Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between translation and interpreting?

The interpreter’s job is to enable oral communication between people who would not understand each other without interpretation. Interpreters render a message from one language into another and not just mere words. Non-verbal elements such as gestures, thought patterns, cultural practices etc. play just as important a role as the spoken language. Unlike translators, interpreters work directly and interactively with speakers and listeners.

Why do I usually always need two interpreters for my meeting?

Interpreting requires an uninterrupted high level of concentration. That is why interpreters almost always work in pairs per language combination; for larger meetings interpreters even work in teams of three. They work in a team and alternate every 30 minutes. In this case, the interpreter does not take a break but continues to support their colleagues. It does not matter whether the interpreters work on-site or remotely. In exceptional cases interpreters can work alone. In this case the event may not last longer than two hours.

How long does an interpreter work?

Interpreting is a very demanding activity and requires a high level of concentration. That is why you must schedule plenty of breaks so that the interpreters can rest and consistently provide high-quality interpretation throughout the entire assignment. Usually an interpreter takes a break of 90 minutes every 3 hours.

Why do I need to send information material to the interpreters?

Good preparation is key for a successful interpretation. References relevant to the meeting and preparatory materials, such as an agenda, presentations, background information etc. are therefore extremely important to the interpreter. They can read up on the subject in advance and therefore use corporate terminology. Needless to say, interpreters will handle all documents confidentially.

How much does it cost?

The pricing system for interpretation depends on several factors. Furthermore, there are costs which do not apply to translation services. Among other aspects, attention should be paid to:

Short-term nature
The further ahead you plan an interpreter assignment, the greater the choice of available interpreters you will have. Good and affordable interpreters are usually booked up early and regularly.

Language combination
The more unusual the requested languages are, the more costly it will be to use interpreters.
Subject area: The more technical or complex the subject of the meeting is, the more expensive the interpreting assignment will be because, among other things, preparation time is reflected in the interpreter’s daily rate.

Venue
Travel costs are borne by the customer. These costs include not only travel expenses for the journey to and from the event but also downtime while travelling. In addition, these costs include accommodation and catering.

Equipment
The hiring of interpreting equipment including delivery and collection is quoted separately. Prices vary between the different technical possibilities.

Why should you engage a service provider like Gemino instead of managing it yourself?

Organizing an interpreter assignment means, among other things:

• You must select the appropriate type of interpreting and its options
• You must recruit interpreters who speak the required language combination(s) and are familiar with the subject matter
• Booking the right equipment and organizing delivery, on-site installation and collection
• You must ensure coordination among all parties involved

Avoid the stress and concentrate on your event and its participants. As a professional language service provider we will gladly take care of the linguistic component of your event.