Interpretation is the direct translation of free speech. And it's an art. The situation may be in a conference or a courtroom, about business, politics or public services. But every time, the interpreter must carry the precise meaning immediately across languages, under pressure and often face-to-face conditions.

It's a job for experts, and we take it very seriously. All our interpreters have well-recognised higher academic degrees, expertise in specific subject areas and a proven flair for their primary language. Our team are all natural language enthusiasts, alive to the subtleties of language and tuned to the latest developments in their fields.

How does it work?

Each situation is different, so to help you work out what you need, here are the main ways we carry out interpretation:

Consecutive

The speaker says a few phrases or sentences before pausing for the interpreter to translate. The interpreter may make notes while the speaker is talking.

Simultaneous

The interpretation is delivered almost at the same time and over the top of the speaker's voice. It can be done from a booth, or if it's easier, whispering to one or two people. In a conference, each language requires two interpreters to work as a team so that they can take turns to interpret. This ensures the highest level of concentration is maintained.

Advice for booking with us

• Our interpreters are often booked two or three months in advance. It is advisable to book early to ensure availability. This will also allow us to source the nearest suitable interpreter, so there's less for you to pay on travel costs.
• Have an idea of the likely duration of the interpretation.
• Make sure you know the subject to be discussed, and how you'd like the interpretation to be done (consecutive, whispering or simultaneous).
• If you can, give names of relevant people or organisations and company background, so the interpreter has a clear idea about the work.