Consecutive interpreting is the second type of interpreting alongside simultaneous interpreting. But what does a consecutive interpreter do? For which events and appointments is this form of interpreting suitable? Find out in this article.
How does consecutive interpretation work?
Whenever an event is interpreted consecutively, no special interpreting technique is used – pen and paper are sufficient. The interpreter uses a special and usually very individualised note-taking technique to take notes on the speech to be interpreted. They then reproduce it in the target language using the notes they have made. Consecutive interpreting is therefore more time-consuming than simultaneous interpreting.
And even if no special interpreting technique is required for consecutive interpreting, the interpreter needs a basis in the so-called note-taking technique. This is a collection of symbols and abbreviations with which even longer, complex speeches can be written down concisely.
Consecutive interpreting – types of events
Consecutive interpreting is more suitable for smaller events where the focus is more on personal or interactive dialogue. You are also more likely to find a consecutive interpreter at an event where only one contribution needs to be interpreted. Examples of this include an evening event, an awards ceremony or a visit to the authorities.
A civil wedding ceremony or a notary appointment in particular are usually interpreted consecutively, as this ensures that all parties can follow the content of the appointment without the use of interpreting technology and without, for example, whispered simultaneous interpreting causing disruption and distraction.
Finding a consecutive interpreter
Professional associations like VKD are a great starting point for everyone looking for a professional consecutive interpreter. Only those complying with high professional standards and ethics can successfully become memebers and build a strong networks of equally professional colleagues – a major benefit for clients planning a larger or more complex multilingual event. Being part of a professional association, we can always find the right colleague for a job, even for the rarest languages.