Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Conference Interpretation • Whispered Interpretation • Note-taking

Language Direction

Term from Interpretation industry explained for recruiters

Language Direction refers to the specific combination and order of languages an interpreter or translator works with. For example, Spanish to English or English to Spanish. The first language listed is the source (the language being translated from) and the second is the target (the language being translated to). Some interpreters are qualified to work bidirectionally, meaning they can work both ways between their language pair, while others may only work in one direction. This is important because working into one's native language often produces better quality results.

Examples in Resumes

Certified interpreter with Language Direction English<>Spanish for medical conferences

Provided consecutive interpretation services with Language Direction French>English

Expert court interpreter with Language Direction Mandarin>English and English>Mandarin

Typical job title: "Interpreters and Translators"

Also try searching for:

Conference Interpreter Court Interpreter Medical Interpreter Simultaneous Interpreter Consecutive Interpreter Document Translator Language Professional

Where to Find Interpreters and Translators

Professional Associations

Online Communities

Job Boards

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle simultaneous interpretation in highly technical conferences?

Expected Answer: A senior interpreter should discuss preparation techniques, managing specialized terminology, stress management, and teamwork with booth partners during long sessions.

Q: What strategies do you use when interpreting idioms or culturally-specific content?

Expected Answer: Should explain techniques for quick cultural adaptation, maintaining message accuracy while adjusting for cultural context, and providing cultural briefings when necessary.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you prepare for an interpreting assignment?

Expected Answer: Should mention reviewing subject matter materials, researching terminology, preparing glossaries, and familiarizing themselves with the client's requirements and context.

Q: What do you do when you encounter a term you don't know during interpretation?

Expected Answer: Should explain strategies like asking for clarification, using circumlocution, or providing brief explanations while maintaining flow.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What's the difference between consecutive and simultaneous interpretation?

Expected Answer: Should explain that consecutive means waiting for the speaker to pause before interpreting, while simultaneous means interpreting in real-time as the speaker talks.

Q: How do you ensure accuracy in your interpretations?

Expected Answer: Should discuss active listening, note-taking techniques, asking for clarification when needed, and maintaining focus.