Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Business Interpretation • Receiver Units • Language Pairs

Note-taking

Term from Interpretation industry explained for recruiters

Note-taking is a crucial skill in interpretation where professionals capture and organize information during live conversations or speeches. It's different from regular note-taking because interpreters use special systems and symbols to quickly record the main ideas, which they need to translate between languages moments later. Think of it like creating a quick memory map that helps interpreters remember and accurately convey what speakers are saying, even during long sessions. This skill is especially important in consecutive interpretation, where the interpreter speaks after the original speaker finishes.

Examples in Resumes

Mastered advanced Note-taking techniques for consecutive interpretation assignments

Applied Note-taking and Memory Techniques during high-level business negotiations

Trained junior interpreters in professional Note-taking and Interpretation Techniques

Typical job title: "Interpreters"

Also try searching for:

Consecutive Interpreter Conference Interpreter Professional Interpreter Court Interpreter Medical Interpreter Business Interpreter

Where to Find Interpreters

Professional Associations

Online Communities

Job Boards

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle fast speakers while maintaining accurate note-taking?

Expected Answer: An experienced interpreter should explain their strategy for managing speed, such as using abbreviations, symbols, and focusing on key ideas rather than word-for-word recording. They should mention techniques for politely managing speaker pace when needed.

Q: How do you train others in note-taking techniques?

Expected Answer: Should describe their method of teaching others, including symbol systems, organization techniques, and how they adapt training to different learning styles and interpretation scenarios.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What note-taking system do you use and why?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain their personal note-taking method, whether it's based on established systems or a customized approach, and why it works well for their interpretation style.

Q: How do you prepare your note-taking for different types of assignments?

Expected Answer: Should discuss how they adjust their note-taking based on the subject matter, setting (medical, legal, conference), and expected duration of the assignment.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic elements of your note-taking system?

Expected Answer: Should be able to describe basic symbols, abbreviations, and organization methods they use to capture information during interpretation.

Q: How do you ensure your notes are clear enough to use after several hours?

Expected Answer: Should explain their basic organization method, including use of margins, spacing, and clear writing to ensure notes remain readable throughout long assignments.