Using an Interpreter
The goal of interpreting is to provide communication access and a cultural bridge to two or more people who do not speak each other’s language.
When someone is interpreting , that person is facilitating oral communication between two or more parties.
When someone is translating , that person is taking the written word and rewriting it in another language.
Tips for working with an Interpreter
- Use direct speech: Speak directly to the client or to the person with Limited English Proficiency (LEP) using first person. It is the role of the interpreter to repeat exactly what you say, in the same way and in the same tone of voice. For example, you might say, “I would like to know the number of people in your household” or “How many people live in your household?” The interpreter will then repeat exactly what is said in the target language. Do NOT say, “Ask her how many people live in her household.”
Remember: The interpreter acts as your voice and the voice of the person with LEP. The interpreter does not change or edit what you or the client says. He or she clearly repeats what each party is saying, nothing more and nothing less.
- The interpreter is not to engage in side conversations with you or the client, so if there is something you do not want the client to hear, then do not say it to the interpreter. Likewise, anything the person with LEP says should be conveyed by the interpreter to you.
- If you are the caseworker or service provider, you are in control of the interview. If the client is rambling and giving too much detail, ask the client (through the interpreter) to just give you the facts or a simple answer. The interpreter will repeat everything that is said, but he or she will not tell the client to stop unless you direct the client to do so yourself.
- Speak in short sentences or use phrases so the interpreter can keep up. You may need to ask the client or person with LEP to also speak in short segments.
- If you are filling out a form with a person, you ask the questions and the interpreter will repeat the question in Spanish. Do not ask the interpreter to read the form. The relationship is between you and the client; the interpreter is only there to facilitate the relationship.
- There may be times when the interpreter will need to explain a cultural difference to you. The interpreter will interrupt and say, “This is the interpreter speaking.” And then the interpreter will give you the information that he or she thinks you need to better understand the cultural context of what the client is saying.
- If the interpreter happens to know the client personally, the interpreter will need to excuse him- or herself from the interaction. If possible, the interpreter will try to locate another interpreter in the office, but this is not always available. You may need to use another resource for the interpretation, or call at another time so you can ensure the client’s rights are being protected through the use of qualified interpreters.
- HABLA staff responds to a large volume of calls from all over the state of South Carolina. There are often people on hold or those who cannot get through. Please be as efficient as you can without sacrificing the quality of the interview. Keep in mind that other people may be waiting for the interpreter, too. Do not put the interpreter on hold for long periods of time if at all possible. Have your forms ready before you call, and make any necessary copies after you finish the interview.
- If you need to ask a client to wait in the waiting room until an interpreter is available, please paste the following message on a card and hand it to the client. (Please wait in the waiting room.)
Por favor, espérese en la sala de espera hasta que este disponible un intérprete .
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