By Beryl Dalton


With improved transport and communication systems around the world, it's easier than ever to be in contact with people from almost any country. Sometimes the only barrier is language. This is particularly true if you're dealing with people from Latin America, where English is hardly ever spoken. However, with a good Spanish interpreting service even the language barrier can be broken down.

In certain parts of the USA you'll even need to be able to communicate in Spanish with local communities. The country's Hispanic population is huge and especially new immigrants often know only very basic English at most. In Miami FL, for instance, Spanish is fast becoming the most widely spoken language and in some parts of the city you need to be bilingual or you need an interpreter simply to do the shopping.

Interpreting is a specialized skill. It differs from the skills of a translator. For example, a translator has more time to consult dictionaries and to faithfully render a text into the target language. An interpreter, in contrast, has to get the main ideas across as they're expressed in the original language and has to do so without the aid of dictionaries. This is why the interpreter has to be very fluent in both languages. He or she also needs a good memory and the ability to work under pressure.

Interpreters are often employed by government services such as courts or immigration offices, especially in cities where there is a significant population of Hispanic descent. However, the private sector in these cities also needs interpreters. For example, hospitals may need someone to help the doctor and patient to communicate. Businesses may have to communicate not only with immigrant clients but also with trade partners in Latin American nations.

When choosing an interpreter, you need to know that the person is qualified for the job. You may want someone who has professional certification, especially if you need a court or medical interpreter. However, many highly competent interpreters don't have formal certificates. Their experience and recommendations from clients should be enough to tell you whether or not they will be able to provide a good service.

There are different kinds of interpreting and you need to choose someone with the relevant skills for your purposes. For business, the interpreter should know the jargon, for example marketing terms. For a conference, you need someone who can get up in front of a large crowd and isn't afraid of public speaking, or who has experience working with the technology that you use. When you have a visiting delegation, you need someone who has a friendly disposition and can accompany your guests wherever they go.

You also need to remember that Spanish speakers come from vastly different backgrounds. Each country has its own particular expressions and accent and you may want to choose an interpreter who comes from the same cultural background as the people you're going to be dealing with. For example, if your clients are mainly Cuban, it makes sense to pick an interpreter with Cuban ties.

There are different places where you can look for the services of an interpreter. Many language agencies can be found online. Most are also listed in the Yellow Pages. If you're unsure, contact a professional organization such as the Association of Translators and Interpreters of Florida for advice.




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