FAQ

How to work with a translator

Working with a translator is easy. Contact a professional and describe in as much detail as possible what you need. This will help them outline the budget and deadline more precisely. Do not provide documentation that has already been translated by you to "make the job easier" or by automatic translations that have not been reviewed or done by non-professionals. If possible, provide editable documents (a Word file is better than a PDF). Keep in mind that the translation consists of several phases. That is to say, it will never be only and exclusively a translation, but it will take into account, among other elements, the time invested in the search for reliable information and in the management of the project, the layout (if necessary) or the proofreading. For these reasons, remember to tell everything to the translator in advance, and keep them up to date if there are significant changes in the assignment.

How to work with an interpreter

Contact the interpreter and explain what the assignment will consist of (expected date of the event in question and location would be the basic information). If it is a physical location, be sure to meet with the interpreter beforehand so that they can advise you on the best modality to carry out the assignment in the most effective and efficient way. If it is remote, let them know the platform to be used so that they can prepare their computer equipment to perfection. In both cases, some advance preparation time will be required, which may vary depending on the complexity of the assignment, the field and the interpreter's experience. However, the more details you provide, the more accurate the estimate will be and the fewer unforeseen events that may arise. Remember also that it is important not to speak too fast: an appropriate speed of speech and a well-structured argument make interpreting much easier.

How much does a translation/interpretation cost

The price for language services varies greatly depending on the language combination and the field of expertise. If the assignment is urgent, there are likely to be surcharges for urgency. Typically, a translation is priced by the word or page, while an interpreting assignment is priced by the hour. Ask me what you need with no compromise, and I will be happy to find the best solution that suits your needs.

How to find a professional

There are several ways. You can do a search on LinkedIn, Google or another browser. Another option would be to consult one of the websites of the professional associations in your country. These entities offer a directory with all their affiliated professionals. In my case, you can find me on the website of APTIC, the Associació Professional de Traductors e Intèrprets de Catalunya.

What can I do if I need a sworn/official translation

For sworn translations you should make sure that the professional you are looking for is on the official government list of the country you are in. In the case of Spain, you can check the updated list here.

What do A, B and C mean

In the world of translation/interpretation, we usually distinguish between: language A, or native language, or the language we use every day to express ourselves; language B, or second language, of which we have an almost excellent command, comparable to language(s) A; language C, which is passive, meaning that we will never translate into this language, but only from it to our language A.

How many languages a translator/interpreter works into

In the translation world there is something known as the "Mother Tongue Principle", whereby a translator/interpreter only works into their native language. However, the reality is quite different. What is important is that language professionals have continuous training in their working languages and fields of expertise, and that they remain with one, or at most two mother tongues (or A-languages). As a professional, I am always in contact with colleagues who are native speakers of different languages. So, if at any time you would like a translation, proofreading or interpretation by a native speaker (with training and experience), I will gladly refer you to one of these trusted people.

How to become a translator/interpreter

There are several paths. There are those who start directly with a degree in translation and interpreting and continue with masters and postgraduate studies. There are also those who study something else (law or medicine, for example) and then decide to become a translator or interpreter in the field of specialization they already know. Besides studies, in my opinion, the main characteristics to be a good translator and interpreter are: curiosity, passion for knowledge and adaptability.

How many types of interpreting are there

There are different types of interpreting:

Simultaneous interpreting: the interpreter listens and speaks at the same time as the speaker, usually in a soundproof booth.
Consecutive interpreting: the interpreter listens to the speaker and takes notes. At the end of the speaker's speech, the interpreter gives the speech back into another language.
Bilateral or liaison interpreting: this is similar to consecutive interpreting but is faster and the interpreter moves from one language to the other and does not usually take notes (e.g., English > Italian > English).
Whispered interpreting: almost the same as simultaneous interpreting, but, as the name implies, the interpreter whispers in the user's ear.
Remote interpreting: on the rise thanks to the pandemic, this is both simultaneous and consecutive or liaison interpreting, but by video call. Applications such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams are often used. The interpreter must have good computer equipment and a fast internet connection.