When it comes to hiring an interpreter it is important to consider the location where the interpreting will be carried out, to minimize the time required for the interpreter to get to the job, cost of transport and possibly accommodation.

The quickest way to find one is to search using our list of translator companies, agencies or intermediaries. Those services that provide interpreters generally include a link in their front page. You’ll find a choice of language pairs, countries and fields of specialization. Internet general searches using the word interpreter/s followed by the name of a country or city are also a good alternative. The classified section of phone directories shows interpreters and/or translators’ associations as well as individuals' names.

There are instances when the physical presence of an interpreter is not necessary and the job can be achieved over the phone, or the Internet using a VOIP* service. Telephone interpreting became a common practice in Australia 30 years ago and it has become popular in other countries as well, saving millions of dollars in time and travel.

Interpreters usually undertake a diverse range of modalities. Simultaneous interpreting for example, takes place at conferences, legal proceedings and diplomatic meetings. This is often achieved using electronic equipment to transmit the interpretation less conspicuously. Consecutive interpreting establishes a link between two or more people by handling questions and answers in two different languages.

There are times when an interpreter must read a note or document in one language while expressing its meaning in another, which is called sight translation.

* (Voice Over Internet Protocol)