It can be overwhelming trying to figure out what type of interpreter you need for your event.
Is it on a stage?
● A play
● A concert
● A workshop
Is it a religious service?
● Catholic
● Christian
● Baptist
● Lutheran
● Pentecostal
● Hindu
● Unitarian Universalist
Is it a business meeting?
● An interview
● A board meeting
● An accounting meeting
● A tax appointment
● A meeting with the CFO
What about the Deaf participant?
● Are they Deaf?
● DeafBlind?
● Deaf with low vision?
● Do they use tactile interpreting?
● Do they use ASL, PSE, or another communication preference?
What Can I Ask About Requesting An Interpreter?
In our culture today, many people are afraid to ask for specific things. Sometimes it’s because they’re worried about using the wrong terminology. Sometimes it’s, “Am I allowed to ask for that?” Other times it’s simply, “I don’t know what I need.”
My advice? Don’t be afraid to ask. Don’t be afraid to say the wrong thing.
What If I Ask The Wrong Thing To My Interpreter or Interpreting Agency?
We’re used to people not knowing all of the terminology—that’s what our training is for. If we need more information, we’ll ask. And don’t be afraid to answer those questions. It’s not because we’re judging you. It’s because we want to make sure that when you get an interpreter, they’re the right fit.
Do I Need A Specialist For Interpreting My Event?
Think of interpreters the same way you would think of doctors. There are generalists, and there are specialists. Many interpreters are generalists. They can adapt and interpret a wide variety of situations with ease. A specialist, however, may be the better choice for a Deaf Blind or Deaf low vision client. A specialist may also be better suited for a legal proceeding or another highly technical setting.
The same is true for other assignments. Some generalist interpreters can easily navigate religious interpreting because they have years of experience in that environment. Others may not be as comfortable. Both are capable interpreters, but one may simply be a better fit for that particular assignment.
What Will Be Asked Of Me When I Request An Interpreter?
Please don’t be offended if we ask what feels like a million questions. It’s not because of you—it’s because of us. We want to make sure the right interpreter is in the room. The better we understand your event, your audience, and the communication needs involved, the better we can match you with an interpreter who will help make that event successful.
At the end of the day, requesting an interpreter isn’t about finding an interpreter—it’s about finding the right interpreter. At Bridge Interpreting Partners, we don’t just fill assignments—we build the right partnerships.