If you rarely work with professional interpreters, some of the phrases you may hear throughout a session may be confusing. For example, have you ever been on a call with an interpreter and wondered why they say, “This is the interpreter speaking,” before asking a question instead of just asking?
CyraCom recently created a video to help you understand interpreter protocols for a successful interpretation session:
Interpreter protocols video:
Tips for a successful interpretation session
Why do CyraCom interpreters use protocols?
CyraCom’s trained employee interpreters use protocols to help your interpretation session run smoothly. Interpreter protocols help the interpreter shift between a few different roles to meet your needs and deliver accurate, clear communication.
Interpreter roles
Conduit
Interpreters most often act as a conduit, meaning they interpret in the first person to communicate what you, the patient, or the customer is saying directly.
When the interpreter acts as a conduit, the conversation should flow as if they aren’t there. They make it clear they aren’t involved in the discussion but simply supporting communication between you and your client. The only time an interpreter should shift out of the conduit role is when there’s confusion from any call participant.
Clarifier
An interpreter may switch to the clarifier role when addressing confusion or miscommunication due to the language used, including the speaker’s vocabulary and syntax.
Cultural broker
Interpreters act as cultural brokers to share context or explain misunderstandings between you and your client based on customs, social norms, or traditions from their culture.
Interpreter protocol examples
An interpreter may switch from the conduit role to the clarifier role when:
- The LEP person’s responses don’t seem to match your questions
- Frequently asking “What?” or “Huh?”
- Asking the interpreter to repeat the question or statement
- Answering “Yes” to questions or statements that don’t require yes/no answers
- Repeating the question without providing an answer
- Slow or unsure responses to a question
The interpreter doesn’t understand a term you’re using- The interpreter needs to complete a dictionary check
- The word you’re using doesn’t translate into the target language
- Explanation of an abbreviation is needed
- The interpreter is unsure if they heard you correctly
- Repetition of the word/phrase you just used
- Verifying numbers for accuracy
An interpreter may switch from the conduit role to the cultural broker role when:
- Explaining cultural concepts
- Defining words or customs
- Interpreting slang when necessary
- Clarifying Americanisms
- Summarizing relevant historical events or cultural legends
How can you help your interpreter?
You can help your interpreter avoid needing to use protocols often by:
- Speaking in the first person
- Using short, complete sentences
- Eliminating background noise
- Enunciating your words
- Avoiding slang, jargon, and metaphors
Want to work with CyraCom’s trained, highly-qualified interpreters?
Contact our team today for a free consultation.
