Effective communication is crucial for the success of any business, and this is especially true when working with clients or employees who speak different languages. If you need to communicate with someone over the phone and there is a language barrier, one solution is to use over the phone interpretation.
This service allows for real-time translation of spoken conversation, enabling you to have a conversation with someone who speaks a different language. However, to get the most out of this service, it’s important to follow a few best practices.
Here are 7 tips for maximizing the effectiveness of over the phone interpretation in your business.
#1 Plan Ahead
Before your call, take some time to prepare a list of key points or questions that you want to cover during the conversation. This will help ensure that the interpretation process goes smoothly and efficiently. Additionally, it’s a good idea to provide the interpreter with any relevant background information or context that may be useful for them to have before the call.
#2 Speak Clearly and Slowly
Over the phone interpretation involves listening to a speaker in one language and then speaking in another, which can be a complex and time-consuming process. To make it easier for the interpreter and the person on the other end of the call, it’s important to speak clearly and slowly, using simple language whenever possible. Avoid using slang or colloquialisms, as these can be difficult to translate.
#3 Use Visual Aids
Visual aids, such as charts, graphs, or presentations, can be very helpful in conveying information during an over the phone interpretation call. They provide a visual representation of the information being discussed, which can be easier for some people to understand than verbal explanations alone.
It’s important to note that visual aids should be provided to the other party and interpreter beforehand so that they have time to review them and incorporate them into the interpretation process. This will help to ensure that the interpretation is accurate and effective.
#4 Take Breaks
Interpreting for long periods of time can be mentally and physically exhausting, so it’s important to take breaks whenever possible. Consider breaking up the call into shorter segments or scheduling breaks in between to give the interpreter a chance to rest and recharge.
#5 Avoid Interrupting
It’s important to allow the interpreter to finish translating before speaking or asking a question. Interrupting the interpreter can disrupt the flow of the conversation and make it more difficult for everyone to understand what is being said.
#6 Provide Feedback
If you have any concerns or questions about the interpretation process, be sure to communicate them to the interpreter. They will be happy to work with you to find a solution and improve the service.
#7 Be Respectful
Remember that the interpreter is a professional and is there to help facilitate communication between you and the person on the other end of the call. It’s important to be respectful and considerate of their time and effort.
Over the phone interpretation can be a valuable tool for businesses looking to minimize language barriers and improve communication with clients or employees who speak different languages. By following these 7 tips, you can get the most out of this service and ensure that your conversations are productive and effective.
Over the Phone Interpretation from Workplace Languages
If you’re looking for high-quality over the phone interpretation services, be sure to check out Workplace Languages. Our team of professional interpreters is ready to help you overcome language barriers and improve communication in your business.
