Interpreter

With the global community getting ever smaller, there is an increasing demand for skilled interpreters. As an interpreter, you may find yourself working in a wide variety of environments. You may work in medical institutions, at conferences and business meetings, in government agencies, in the travel and tourism industry, in education, or in many other areas. Since this work requires changing one spoken language to another, it is necessary to be extremely fluent in at least two languages. Many interpreters are freelancers or self-employed and can easily earn around $60,000 a year or more. If you have an interest in and ability for languages, now is a great time to get your career training for one of the best careers in communication.

Training requirements

The first step to becoming an interpreter is to go back to college and earn at least a bachelor’s degree. Your degree doesn’t necessarily need to be in a language as other content areas can provide you with relevant knowledge that can help in your work in a variety of environments. Regardless of which degree path you choose, make sure you get a foundation in communication including writing and analytical skills.

In addition to your college education, you will need to complete special interpreter training; possibly specific to the type of interpreting you will be doing. You may serve as an intern or apprentice to get additional training. You may also participate in a mentoring relationship. Since you will likely work independently, you also need to get a good foundation in business skills so you can manage the business and financial aspects of your business.

There is no universal method of licensure for interpreter jobs but you can get certified in a variety of language combinations through the American Translators Association. There are also a number of other agencies that will provide certification in specific languages or types of translations. Check into your state’s regulations or any requirements of the specific field you wish to enter.

Job types

Many interpreters perform simultaneous interpretation, usually at conferences or similar events. In this type of work, it is necessary to speak and listen at the same time. It is also helpful to be able to anticipate the end of the speaker’s sentences. This type of work can be very demanding and, as such, interpreters often work in teams of two, taking turns of about 20 to 30 minutes each so the other can take a break.

Other interpreters perform consecutive interpretation. In this type of work, the interpreters listen then translate what was said to a different language. This job requires note taking. It is helpful to have some form of coding or shorthand training to do the job properly. This type of work is often used in travel, medical care, and similar services.

Going to work as an interpreter allows you to help people communicate ideas and information across the language barrier. It is a highly important service that will always be needed in every aspect of life, more so as the global community continues to shrink. If you have an affinity for language and communication, interpreting provides you with a great job opportunity.