TIPS FOR GETTING THE MOST
OUT OF AN INTERPRETING SERVICE

• THE MOST IMPORTANT ISSUE . That which is fundamental. Sound, sound, sound. In personal experience, I am amazed by the number of events in which it was absolutely impossible to perform a good interpretation due to sound problems: a completely inaudible voice signal and/or one that is totally drowned out in room reverberation (incorrect lapel mic set-up, or multiple open mics, among other reasons), deafening feedback howls, hum, crosstalk and other issues of a diverse technical and/or logistical nature. The ideal signal for a fantastic interpretation, is that which enters the ear completely dry, devoid of any interference or room echo. In these cases, it's as if the speaker's voice were coming from within the interpreter's head itself, which lends for a extraordinary interpretation. And that, is a true pleasure.
   
• Please make an effort so that the interpreters are provided any relevant documentation, be it that of the event in question, or related to its subject matter. The more and the sooner received, the better. We understand that confidentiality issues sometimes preclude its dissemination. However, for those cases in which there is a possibility, we deeply appreciate any material that can be forwarded to us.
   
• There are people whose nature is to speak at incredible speeds. Their presentations are often barely intelligible in their own language, let alone in an interpreted version. Therefore, if there is an interest in the audience understanding and being able to follow the speakers pleasantly (which we, as interpreters, take for granted), it is important to politely request that they: 
• • Keep an adequate distance from the table mic (from 4 to 12 in., depending on the technical set-up).
  • Speak at a speed such that they can be comfortably followed in their own language.
  • Try to pronounce with the greatest possible clarity. (Real world examples: having heard "test" for "tax," "pinch" for "pension," or "root" for "hood.")
    

Having said this, we understand that reductions are sometimes imposed on the amount of time allocated for the speakers. This generally results, for example, in them attempting to verbalize in 10 minutes what they had prepared for 30. Under these circumstances, one interprets as best one can.

THANK YOU VERY MUCH!