As the name suggests, face-to-face interpreting (simultaneous or consecutive) is a means of helping users of different languages to communicate with one another face to face. This service is often the preferred choice when dealing with more complex or culturally sensitive situations where telephone interpreting is not sufficient to bridge the gap in communication.
thebigword is proud to offer high-quality, reliable services at the most competitive prices in the industry. High-quality face-to-face interpreting is guaranteed by only using local, qualified and experienced interpreters. The most stringent security measures are factored into all of our processes, including the recruitment and selection of linguists.
thebigword’s industry-leading technology, thebigword GMS™ (thebigword Globalization Management System™), allows clients to make face-to-face bookings online, ensuring confidentiality and high-level security for every appointment, whilst saving time through an automated system. thebigword GMS™ offers free, real-time management information, enabling clients to forecast and budget their spend accurately and efficiently.
Simultaneous versus consecutive interpreting
Simultaneous interpreting is typically carried out by an interpreter stationed in a soundproof booth or using a portable interpreting system. This allows the interpreter to translate the current sentence into the target language whilst simultaneously listening to and mentally processing the next sentence. Simultaneous interpreting requires intense concentration so interpreters may work in pairs, alternating every 20-30 minutes.
In consecutive interpreting, the speaker pauses every one to five minutes (usually at the end of every paragraph or complete thought), allowing the interpreter to render what has been said into the target language with the help of notes made whilst the speaker was talking. Consecutive interpreting is used for meetings, presentations and training courses.
What you can expect from thebigword
- Confidentiality and high-level security through our online booking system
- Dedicated teams providing consultation on language services
- A dedicated British Sign Language (BSL) team working closely with BSL providers
- Fast response time guaranteed by using local, qualified and experienced interpreters
- 24/7/365 access to a database of over 8,000 rigorously vetted interpreters
- Free, real-time management information
Linguists’ network
Reinforcing quality is one of the most important factors in delivering a world-class language service. All of our linguists hold industry-recognised qualifications, requiring them to meet a standard level of interpreting ability.
thebigword’s Supplier Relations Division works closely with our Interpreting Procurement team to ensure the continuous professional development of our interpreters.
Interpreter performance is monitored continually by means of a ‘live quality rating’, which is established during the vetting and induction of the interpreter, and updated after every assignment, training session or quality review. The rating is a key indicator of qualification, training, utilisation, current performance, and compliance with standard working practices.
For your next face-to-face interpreting project, please contact us using our online chat tool or request an instant quote or a call back.