Interpreters are called upon to perform varying types of interpretation sessions, face to face, telephonic, video remote, sign language, are just a few. Of course, these also vary based on experience, skills, and certifications. One of the most complicated of these is telephonic interpreting. This is because there are many factors the can impede or complicate communication.
Among the factors making telephonic interpretation difficult is the use of cell phones, talking on a cell phone while driving, using speaker phone, pronunciation, vocabulary, and much more. Just imagine yourself attempting to interpret for someone who slurs their words. How about interpreting for someone using speaker phone with a poor quality unit, or interpreting for someone with poor vocabulary or pronunciation. I experience all of the above circumstances every day. In addition, I have had all of the technological issues mentioned.
When an Interpreter experiences these difficulties it can be very uncomfortable for him or her, as well as, the other parties to the call. In order to minimize and abate the issue the interpreter must inform all parties of the difficulty. Use "excuse me", then proceed to explain the difficulty you are having and what you would like the participants of the call to do in order to help the communication flow smoother. Also, always ask for repetition when needed. Do not assume that you heard what was said correctly. Ask the party you are having difficulty hearing, to speak loudly. Also, advise callers using speaker phone to please not use it if possible. Positioning is important when using speaker phones in hospitals. Patients and providers cannot be across the room from the phone being used. They must be closer to the phone if at all possible. Also, background noise must be mitigated by closing doors. Background noise if the number one interference in hospital calls and it is extremely disruptive.
So, if you are having difficulties hearing your callers, ask question regarding equipment and the callers position to the equipment, Also, ask the caller to speak loudly, make sure no one is using a home speaker phone, or cell phone speaker phone, and make certain that parties are not walking around while speaking. Let all concerned know the type of difficulty you are experiencing. Inform the caller that you will do the best you can to make sure that this transaction is successful. Usually, all parties understand and will accommodate your needs so that you can perform your responsibilities professionally and completely. When completing the call apologize for any difficulties during the call and say Thank you..
29 July, 2014
25 July, 2014
Video Remote Interpreting
Northeast Consulting and Interpreting, LLC has begun to offer some of its' clients interpretation services via remote video. Many organizations have secure networks and computers that they use daily. Technologies can be used to accommodate this service without companies incurring a capital expense in the software or equipment of a service provider.
It is not very complicated and will save organizations thousands of dollars. By using more affordable methods and softwares rather than contracting with a service provider, users of remote language services can cut out the middle man and go right to the source, the Interpreter. Many Interpreters are providing remote services from their office or home. Don't forget that interpreters are bound by both a code of ethics and HIPPA. They must maintain confidentiality.
If you would like to learn more about how video remote can help you provide better service for your clients or customers while saving you thousands of dollars per year, call NCI at 617-934-1165 and ask for Ed. Lebron. I'll be happy to have a discussion regarding video remote interpretation and how we at NCI save our clients thousands $$$ per year while providing quality video remote services.
It is not very complicated and will save organizations thousands of dollars. By using more affordable methods and softwares rather than contracting with a service provider, users of remote language services can cut out the middle man and go right to the source, the Interpreter. Many Interpreters are providing remote services from their office or home. Don't forget that interpreters are bound by both a code of ethics and HIPPA. They must maintain confidentiality.
If you would like to learn more about how video remote can help you provide better service for your clients or customers while saving you thousands of dollars per year, call NCI at 617-934-1165 and ask for Ed. Lebron. I'll be happy to have a discussion regarding video remote interpretation and how we at NCI save our clients thousands $$$ per year while providing quality video remote services.
11 July, 2014
Regarding Telephonic Interpreting
Telephonic Interpreting, like any mode of interpreting requires interpreters to pay close attention to whats being said by both parties. Misunderstanding can occur if someone does not speak clearly or mispronounces a word. However, there are other items the interpreter must have in order to help communication.
Among the items needed to help improve communication and its clarity are such things as a good, fast, up to date computer with at least 8 or more gigabites of ram memory, 64 Bits OS 2GHz of speed or faster. Also, a good quality business dual line conference phone, with a very good headset. However, this alone will not garantee perfect audio during your session.
In my experience I have found that you as the interpreter must take control of your call. Make certain that folks understand if sound quality is poor, since you have no control over the kind of equipment they may be using. So you will need to ask that the provider and patient are positioned close to the phone they are using, if possible. In addition, you have to request that callers using cell phones are stationary and not moving about the house or out doors. If they are driving a car when calling politely ask them to pull over during the call for their safety. Moreover, make certain that callers not use hands free device from home since these are usually of poor quality and cause a tunneling effect. Lastly, request repetition when needed, or for them to spell words out phonetically. This will help you to be able to hear all parties better and get through the call without errors.
These are just a few recommendations for interpreting over the phone. You may even think of a few other ways to help yourself. If you do please share these with others in the field. Don't forget to always be polite, kind, and clear when interpreting. Keep your cool even when a caller may be upset. Also, don't assume that providers or others using your service know all there is to know about how to manage this triadic relationship. Ask, give them a hand and help to expedite that call so that all benefit.
by E L Collazo, Northeast Consulting and Interpreting, LLC
Among the items needed to help improve communication and its clarity are such things as a good, fast, up to date computer with at least 8 or more gigabites of ram memory, 64 Bits OS 2GHz of speed or faster. Also, a good quality business dual line conference phone, with a very good headset. However, this alone will not garantee perfect audio during your session.
In my experience I have found that you as the interpreter must take control of your call. Make certain that folks understand if sound quality is poor, since you have no control over the kind of equipment they may be using. So you will need to ask that the provider and patient are positioned close to the phone they are using, if possible. In addition, you have to request that callers using cell phones are stationary and not moving about the house or out doors. If they are driving a car when calling politely ask them to pull over during the call for their safety. Moreover, make certain that callers not use hands free device from home since these are usually of poor quality and cause a tunneling effect. Lastly, request repetition when needed, or for them to spell words out phonetically. This will help you to be able to hear all parties better and get through the call without errors.
These are just a few recommendations for interpreting over the phone. You may even think of a few other ways to help yourself. If you do please share these with others in the field. Don't forget to always be polite, kind, and clear when interpreting. Keep your cool even when a caller may be upset. Also, don't assume that providers or others using your service know all there is to know about how to manage this triadic relationship. Ask, give them a hand and help to expedite that call so that all benefit.
by E L Collazo, Northeast Consulting and Interpreting, LLC
Happy Interpreting!
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