Online or in-person interpreter service – Which to choose?

Interpreter services are more valuable than ever. Facilitating communication across the world, they play a crucial role in enabling speakers of different languages to interact. As globalization continues to bring us closer together, interpreters are indispensable in overcoming the linguistic barriers that still divide us.

While in the past, interpreting always took place on-site, technological advances and the growing role of video calls, webinars and remote meetings have led to online interpreting to become a widely adopted solution.

Both online interpretation and in-person interpreter services have their merits, but which is most suitable for your project? What are the pros and cons of each? Read on to find out!

Online interpreter

Do you need an in-person interpreter?

Technology has certainly made life easier in many respects – just think how we can shop, book travel, and find out information with a few simple clicks – but there are some things it just can’t replace – in-person interaction.

Language interpretation is a complex art, entailing many components that are not immediately evident – and even more difficult to work out from the other side of a screen. Interpreting, whatever the mode, requires an unsurpassed command of both languages, as well as the ability to think quickly and express an idea succinctly and accurately.

While an online interpreter may be able to tackle these challenges, the screen adds another barrier to communication. That’s because messages are not only conferred with words. An in-person interpreter, present on-site, can also consider the more subtle aspects of communication that may be difficult for a linguist sitting behind a screen, many miles away, to access.

These include aspects such as gesture, body language, facial expressions, and all the subtle elements of communication that convey emotion and deeper meaning.

Some common situations that benefit from an in-person interpreter include:

  • Medical appointments

When sensitive personal information is being discussed, an in-person interpreter helps to create a trusting relationship. They can also read non-verbal cues more easily than an online interpreter, and these play an important role in conveying emotions and concerns. An in-person interpreter can also help develop the relationship between physician and patient, ensuring that both sides can communicate openly.

  • Legal situations

During legal proceedings, an in-person interpreter can deliver an accurate interpretation of complex legal terminology. They can also assist real-time interactions that promote a clear understanding between all parties involved.

A physical presence is important too; the spatial dynamics of the courtroom mean the interpreter needs to be able to see and hear many individuals, from the judge to the attorneys, jury and witnesses. An in-person presence allows them to pick up on the non-verbal cues and body language of all participants.

  • Workshops or training sessions

An in-person interpreter is invaluable here for promoting a collaborative and interactive environment, which is more difficult from the other side of a screen. By fostering a relationship with participants, the interpreter can also help them to feel comfortable and free to ask questions.

There are many other scenarios an in-person interpreter brings additional qualities and makes communication take place more freely. Of course, it is not always possible to find an interpreter nearby, with the right language pair and expertise. In this case, online interpretation is the next best thing.

Can you do simultaneous interpreting online?

Simultaneous interpreting happens near-instantly, with the interpreter listening to the first speaker, and reformulating it into the target language. Simultaneous interpreting usually relies on a set of relatively complex interpreting equipment, such as a soundproof interpreting booth, a series of high-quality microphones and noise-canceling headsets for all participants.

This mode of interpreting is most often used in settings such as seminars or international conferences. Since many of these now take place online, the demand for remote simultaneous interpreting has risen in recent years. Drawing on technology such as web conferencing platforms and audio interfaces, as well as the usual computer, stable internet connection and webcam, remote simultaneous interpreting can provide an excellent solution to a complex, multilingual problem!

Which is best to minimize language barriers?

If your only consideration is minimizing language barriers, then ordinarily, an in-person interpreter would win hands down. This is thanks to their ability to forge connections and relationships, while tuning into subtle gestures, body language, and other cues.

Addressing language barriers is not just about converting words from one language to another. It’s also a question of creating meaningful interactions that promote understanding and connection. An in-person interpreter is best placed to do this, but if that isn’t a feasible option, online interpreting provides a strong alternative – with the advantage of a larger pool of linguists being at your disposal.

An interpretation service you can count on

Whether you opt for in-person interpreter services or online interpretation, you’re in safe hands by choosing Capital Linguist. In addition to our global network of skilled interpreters working in over 100 languages, with us, you’ll also receive exemplary project management.

This means, that from the second you reach out to us, we’ll pair you up with a dedicated project manager. Approachable, responsive, friendly, and effective, your go-to manager will keep you up to date with the logistics, timeframes, and practicalities.

If you still can’t decide on the best mode of interpretation for your next project, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team – we’ll be more than happy to offer friendly support and guidance, and ensure your message is conveyed with precision! 

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