Become an Interpreter or Translator

BASICS OF BECOMING AN INTERPRETER OR TRANSLATOR

A more globalized society means that encountering language barriers is inevitable. From conducting business meetings with clients from different countries and cultures to creating subtitles for Hollywood blockbusters, it is becoming increasingly important for companies in all industries to find multilingual interpreters and translators.

Interpreters are charged with converting spoken language or sign language between parties while translators primarily work in written formats – translating everything from advertisements to books and magazines to different languages. It is critical that these professionals know two or more languages and can speak, write and read fluently in both. Moreover, it is important to master each language in its formal and informal usage.

Here is what you should consider when choosing an online interpreter and translator program:

• Above all else, it is vital that an interpreter or translator be fluent in English and at least one other language. For this reason, many employers look for candidates that have received a bachelor’s degree in a relevant area or have completed appropriate job-specific training programs, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics^[i].
• While an employer may value a candidate with years of experience speaking a different language, industry experience can also provide value. Many areas of law and business contain specific terminology, and candidates who know that terminology are often sought after.
• There are several certifications that show proficiency in different areas of translation and interpretation. In a general context, the American Translators Association provides certifications between 26 languages and English.
• The National Association of Judiciary Interpreters and Translators offers certifications that specifically involve legal and court interpretation.
• The National Association of the Deaf and the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf specialize in sign language interpretation.
• The Certification Commission for Healthcare Interpreters and the National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters offer certifications that specifically relate to health care terminology and interpretation.
• The U.S. Department of State offers three certifications that judge the effectiveness of interpreters pursuing positions as escorts, court work interpreters and international conference interpreters.