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Feedback has shown that people working with an interpreter for the first time can find it to be a daunting and nerve-wracking experience.

Follow the advice given below and you will find it makes a difference to the quality of the interview for all parties involved. You will get more out of it, the interpreter will find it easier to work with you and your client will feel much more involved and relaxed:

• Spend a couple of minutes at the beginning of the interview briefing the interpreter on the situation : who your client is, what the situation is and any background information you think will be useful.



• Allow the interpreter to explain their role briefly to your client – this will save time in the long run as the client will not need to stop and ask questions.



• Give your client the same eye contact you would to an English speaker, and use direct speech. Eg ‘how can I help you?’ in stead if ‘Can you ask him how I can help?’. This saves time (it is usually more complicated linguistically to use indirect speech) and your client will feel involved and relaxed.



• Check that your client understands at frequent intervals.



• Allow the interpreter enough time to translate what you have said and don’t give too much information at once. Interpreters will usually take notes but the rate of accuracy drops the more they have to remember.



• Avoid asking the interpreter for their opinion – they will explain cultural issues that may cloud the correct message from being transferred, but they must also remain impartial.



• Be ready to define any technical terms, or jargon. Even if the interpreter understands it, your client may not.

Remember :

• You are in control at all times. You should never feel that you do not know what is being said or what is going on. If this happens, stop the interview and ask the interpreter to explain, thus regaining control.

Ideally, you should forget the interpreter is even there. Follow these tips and you will find that the flow of conversation remains natural.