Interpreting is always considered a bespoke service – no two assignments are ever the same. Depending on the context of the event, different interpreting services will be required. That's why we've provided this short guide to the different types of interpreting service we offer. If you're not sure which service you require, or you'd just like some advice or extra information about using an interpreter, give us a call on 01908 572600 or contact us via the web.

Face-to-face interpreting

Face-to-face interpreting is sometimes called liaison or ad-hoc interpreting. It is a two way form of interpreting – meaning that all parties present can take part in a discussion. The interpreter translates verbally every few sentences, while the speaker pauses. It is widely used in courts, healthcare and legal situations, and business meetings, where it is important that a dialogue can be maintained. The main downsides to face-to-face interpreting are that it takes longer to converse (as the speaker must pause for translation to take place) and that it is generally only effective within relatively small groups.

Simultaneous interpreting

Sometimes referred to as whispering interpreting, simultaneous interpreting is useful for larger events where only a few participants require translation. The interpreter sits next to or behind the people who need translation, and whispers the interpretation to them. This is much less disruptive than face-to-face interpreting, but it should be noted that the process is very tiring for the interpreter – for longer assignments, more than one interpreter should be used.

Conference interpreting

At large events such as conferences where there are more than a few participants who require translation, it may be necessary to use conference interpreting. Often requiring a team of interpreters, the translation takes place in a sound booth and is verbally relayed to the participants via headphones. This can be adapted to supply several languages to different groups of participants. We can provide the correct equipment and setup for these cases.

Telephone interpreting

We can provide a full telephone interpreting service, which is suitable for a range of situations. Telephone interpreting can be used when face-to-face contact is not necessary, or when the requirement is urgent or unexpected. The preferred method for telephone interpreting is a three-way conference call, although in face-to-face situations the phone can simply be passed back and forth. Telephone interpreting is much less costly than other forms, as factors such as travel time do not need to be factored in. It is also very flexible – we can connect you to a interpreter in any language at very short notice - usually in under a minute. For more information on this service, visit our telephone interpreting page, or our minisite.

Sign language interpreting

Sign language interpreters can be provided to assist people with hearing difficulties, whenever necessary. These services can be applied to any of the above situations (with the exception of telephone interpreting). Alternatively, text-to-speech reporting can be used for larger events such as conferences.