How to Become an Interpreter

Do you think you have what it takes to be an interpreter? Not sure if you meet all the necessary criteria or if it’s the right career choice for you? 

You’ve come to the right place! We have the answer to all of your interpretation questions. Read on to make history of those question marks.  

Why Should I Become an Interpreter?

According to Indeed.com, the average salary of an interpreter in the United States is $45,974, with the top-earners passing the 6 figure mark. Those working in California, Nevada, and New York stand to earn considerably more, but it’s largely down to whether you choose to work with an agency/business or as a freelancer.

Better still, interpreters are always in demand. As long as there’s a language to be bridged, there’s need for interpretation services. Moreover, it’s a growing industry, adapting alongside technological advances rather than being sidestepped.

If all that sounds good to you, let’s find out what your next steps should be:

The absolute necessities

To even access the first rung of the interpretation career ladder, you’ll have to be at least 18 years of age. In addition, having achieved a high school diploma or an equivalent certificate is also a must.

The almost necessities

Having a diploma in higher education such as a bachelor’s degree goes a long way toward expanding your job opportunities. However, it’s not strictly necessary. Interestingly, your degree doesn’t even have to be language-oriented, but it helps.

Note: Embarking on a degree can open up invaluable study abroad opportunities to you.

What next?

How do I know if I’m “Bilingual Enough?”

Determining language capabilities can be difficult. Fortunately, there is a language proficiency test that can take care of it for you. This test evaluates how well a person can use language to communicate in real life, outlining 10 proficiency levels covering speech, reading, and listening capabilities. 

But there’s a Small Catch

The truth is, those who speak two languages at a native level still may not be able to interpret them correctly. This discrepancy is natural; otherwise, bilinguals would struggle to distinguish between their two languages.

In your role as an interpreter, you’ll be dealing with diverse voices, accents, speaking tempos, and personalities – all of which you’ll need to familiarise yourself with. Moreover, when interpreting from one language to another, omissions and additions are common, natural even. However, becoming an interpreter involves a level of accuracy and professionalism to the point that you can overcome this natural inclination. 

And that requires …

Targeted Experience

First-hand experience as an amateur interpreter is a valuable asset, not only to your skillset and comfort working as an interpreter but also on your appeal to potential employers.

Volunteering

Be on the lookout for volunteer opportunities. You can volunteer at hospitals, organizations, charities, and companies to flex your interpretation muscles and perfect your skills.

Internships

Interning is also an option. During an internship, you obtain hands-on, real-world experience that stands out in a portfolio. Paid or unpaid internships are available but often highly competitive. A cover letter describing your drive and motivations for becoming an interpreter can help you stand out.

Formal Training 

Some employers will offer training on the job, while others will expect it to be completed beforehand. Fortunately for you, there are several training programs available. In addition, many postsecondary schools offer formal training for aspiring interpreters, with certificates or even associate degrees designed to prepare interpreters.

Certification

Qualifications and accreditation are not strictly mandatory for interpreters, with most employers focusing on your experience or performance during trials. However, much the same with educational standards, if you wish to work within conference or consecutive interpretation fields, some form of certification will stand in your favor. To that end, there are courses you can take that will benefit your career in the industry. 

The US government offers certification through federal and state courts. However, the availability of such certification varies from country to country. You'll also find that the State Department has a series of worthwhile tests. In addition, other associations, such as the American Translators Association (ATA), the Certification Commission for Healthcare Interpreters, or The National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters offer certifications or exams.

Some institutions offer more specialized programs and certification, one being the Community Interpreter (TCI.) Their national training program is the only available in the US for community interpreters and the leading program for medical interpreters.

Finally

And there you have it – everything it takes to become an interpreter. Interpreters come in all varieties. Some are bilingual, others trilingual, and even multilingual. Each interpreter develops their own grasp on the position, with some carving a niche space for themselves while others take a more broad approach. In sum, being an interpreter is what you make of it.  If you think this career path is right for you – rest assured that there’s no better time to start than now.