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There are several different modes of interpretation that should be considered when planning a meeting or conference.
I've listed some guidelines.
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Deciding on the Mode of Interpretation |
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There are 3 different modes of interpretation: simultaneous, consecutive and whispering.
1. Consecutive Interpretation:
The speaker speaks for several minutes and pauses. The interpreter takes notes while the speaker speaks and interprets when the speaker stops.
2. Simultaneous Interpretation:
The interpretation is performed simultaneously using equipment. (refer to Technical Info for equipment details)
3. Whispering:
The interpreter sits besides one person and simultaneously interprets the meeting in a small voice to that one person.
 International Conferences, Forums, Symposiums:
Congress, general assemblies of international bodies, international fora or symposia provide simultaneous interpretation in the working languages of the conference. Sometimes, dozens of interpreters have to be recruited to cover both the plenary and parallel sessions.
Seminars, Workshops, Investment/Product Seminars:
Small-scale trainings, seminars can be conducted with consecutive intepretation. Simultaneous interpretation is a better option when the audience is larger, when there are several speakers/presenters or when you cannot afford the extra time required for consecutive interpretation.
Video Conferences, Teleconference:
Consecutive interpretation is advised for teleconferences. Although technically feasible, usually the quality of videoconference sound feeds are not good enough for simultaneous interpretation. In unavoidable situations, make sure to inform the interpreter and have the sound quality checked beforehand.
Press Conferences, Private Meetings :
Press conferences or one-on-one meetings are conducted with consecutive interpretation. However, simultaneous interpretation is a better solution for press conferences where more than 2 languages are spoken,
Business Meetings and Negotiations :
Business meetings and presentations usually employ one consecutive intepretater. Meetings such as inter-governmental talks, high-level officials meetings, trade talks, joint venture or M&A negotiations usually require 2 interpreters - one for each side.
Business Projects, Due Diligences :
Interpreters are contracted for projects such as business restructuring, reorganizations, consulting projects, IPO or international bids. The same applies to due diligences for M&As or investigations related to international trade disputes.
Court Interpretation, Commercial Arbitration :
International tribunals, commercial arbitration or depositions are conducted with consecutive interpretation. Frequently both parties will share the cost of hiring the interpreter or one party will hire the main interpreter while the other a check interpreter. Most cases require only one consecutive interpreter. However, accuracy is of the utmost importance in legal procedures, thus, 2 interpreters should be assigned to alternate if the procedure is lengthy. Neutrality, confidentiality and knowledge of legal system and procedures are required of court interpreters.
Board & Management Meetings :
In case where only one participant speaks a different language in board or business meetings, an interpreter may communicate the on-going dialogue by "whispering" to that person and interpreting consecutively when the person speaks. However, if there are more than 2 participants requiring interpretation, or if these meetings become regular, it is better to shift to full simultaneous interpretation with equipment.
Escort Interpretation :
Escort interpreters provide consecutive interpretation to VIPs or visiting groups throughout their visit. Escort intepreters should be knowledgeable in protocol and etiquette.
Accompanying Delegations
As more and more people travel abroad for international conferences, IR roadshows, IPO roadshows, workshops, etc., the demand is rising for intepreters to accompany the delegates in order to ensure accurate communication.
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Hiring Interpreters |
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As soon as the date and a tentative program of the meeting/conference is set, the mode of interpretation should be decided. Contact the interpreter or company and ask for a quote. You may also request the resumes of available interpreters at this point. Then sign the contract. There are no up-front payments or deposits, however, a cancellation clause is usually included in the contract.
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Working through a Consultant Interpreter |
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Consultant Interpreters are interpreters who provide consulting to conference organizers and recruit the interpreters. They are responsible for advising interpretation-related issues, giving quotes, signing the master contract, recruiting and coordinating interpreters, distributing the materials, ensuring the overall interpretation quality and adequate working conditions.
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Interpretation Fees |
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Interpretation rates differ slightly depending on the technicality of the work, and quality/experience of interpreters. Currently, as of April 2007, the rate for certified interpreters is KRW 800,000 (approx. USD850) for a 6-hour working day. The rates tend to converge among the same class interpreters because they work in pairs. For a better estimate, ask for a quote after the conference schedule and program are fixed.
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