Conference interpreters / simultaneous interpreters specialize in interpreting at meetings of international organisations, such as the European Union, the European Parliament and the United Nations. Depending on the type of meeting, conference, symposium or other multilingual meeting, they provide simultaneous, consecutive or whispered interpretation. Conference interpreters have a university education and extensive training as interpreters. Most have a thorough command of more than two languages.

Simultaneous

Interpreters work from a booth almost simultaneously with the speaker. The interpretation does not extend the duration of the meeting. Simultaneous interpretation is appropriate for all conferences and meetings with several lectures and/or a great many participants. Simultaneous interpretation is a very intense mode of interpretation. Individual interpreters work a maximum of 45 minutes at a stretch. At meetings that exceed 45 minutes, two interpreters are required for each language. Interpreters take turns to maintain interpretation quality at all times. Simultaneous interpretation requires technical equipment (booths, IR receivers, sound systems etc.).

Consecutive

In consecutive interpretation, interpreters do not work simultaneously but deliver a summary afterwards. Consecutive interpretation is appropriate for small groups with a limited number of languages. The speaker takes the floor for a while, after which the interpreter renders the speaker’s message. Consecutive interpretation nearly doubles the duration of meetings. One interpreter per language is sufficient, provided that each interpreter receives breaks at regular intervals. Intensive programmes or meetings involving multiple languages will require two or more interpreters. No technical equipment is required for consecutive interpretation.

Whispered

This is a form of simultaneous interpretation without equipment. Whispered interpretation, like simultaneous interpretation, does not extend the meeting’s duration. This type of interpretation is used when only one or two participants require interpretation. One interpreter can whisper for up to two persons. With meetings that last only a few hours and include brief presentations and a small group requiring interpretation, this mode of simultaneous interpretation is feasible. With an intensive programme where interpreters are not in a position to take breaks at regular intervals, two interpreters will be required for each language. If there are three or more listeners, whispered interpretation does require technical equipment such as an info-port system.

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