If you are new to over-the-phone interpreting (OPI) or video remote interpreting (VRI), these tips help you get a clear and accurate session.
Before you begin
Introduce yourself to the interpreter.
Share your name, how it is pronounced, and your title or role if applicable. This helps the
interpreter address everyone correctly throughout the session.
Identify everyone participating.
If several people will be involved in the conversation, introduce them briefly and explain
their role or relationship to the situation.
Briefly explain the purpose of the conversation.
Context at the start helps the interpreter follow the terminology and the subject matter.
During the conversation
Talk to the person you are communicating with, rather than to the interpreter. The
interpreter will interpret everything that is said between you.
Speak in short, complete thoughts, about one or two sentences at a time, then pause so
the interpreter can interpret before you continue.
Avoid stopping in the middle of a sentence or thought and continuing later. Complete
thoughts are easier to interpret accurately.
Try not to rush, but you do not need to speak unnaturally slowly. A clear and consistent
pace works best.
Spell out unfamiliar names or terms when necessary. For important numbers, dates,
addresses, or other critical information, consider repeating them for confirmation.
Wherever possible, say exactly what you mean rather than relying on implied meaning,
cultural references, or figurative language.
Expressions such as “hit the ground running” or “break a leg” may have no direct
equivalent in another language and can cause confusion.
Humor and sarcasm are difficult to interpret accurately and can be misunderstood
across languages and cultures.
The interpreter may occasionally ask you to repeat or clarify something. That is part of
getting the interpretation right.
During a VRI session
Reduce background noise and position yourself where the interpreter can see you and
hear the conversation clearly.
Only one person should speak at a time. Overlapping speech makes accurate
interpretation much harder.
Remember
The interpreter carries the communication between you.
Interpreters remain neutral and impartial. They do not take part in the conversation,
and they do not give advice, opinions, or explanations beyond interpreting what is said.
Speak naturally.
Communicate with the person as you normally would. The interpreter’s role is to help
both parties understand one another as accurately and completely as possible.
Take breaks during longer sessions.
For extended conversations, plan regular short breaks to help everyone stay focused
and support accurate interpretation.