Interpretation Checklist: 10 Ways to Ensure Accuracy

It's really important for businesses operating in global markets to get their interpretation right. Clear communication across languages can make or break key negotiations, legal matters, or partnerships. Whether it's a high-stakes legal dispute, an international business meeting, or cross-border financial transactions, even small errors in interpretation can lead to costly consequences. It's crucial to make sure your interpretation meets the highest standards of accuracy, cultural sensitivity, and industry expertise to maintain professionalism and prevent misunderstandings.

Let’s explore this structured checklist to help you make informed decisions when selecting interpreters for your organization.

1. Are your interpreters properly qualified?

When it comes to accurate interpretation, it's not just about knowing two languages - it's about understanding them at an expert level.

• Do they hold certifications relevant to the industry in which they work, be it legal, medical, or financial?

• Are they proficient in both the source and target languages?

• Do they have experience working with businesses in your sector?

Without these qualifications, you risk misinterpretations that could lead to legal mishaps or even endanger someone's life in a medical setting.

2. Do they fully understand the context?

In interpretation, context is king. Do your interpreters understand the cultural and situational nuances of the conversation they are interpreting?

• Have they been briefed on the context of the interaction?

• Do they understand the cultural nuances that may affect the meaning of certain phrases?

• How familiar are they with the cultural background of the participants?

For example, a literal interpretation of a phrase like "break a leg" could lead to some awkward misunderstandings in a business meeting!

3. Do they use consistent terminology?

In industries such as law and medicine, consistency in terminology can make or break a case or diagnosis.

• Do your selected interpreters use industry-specific glossaries to maintain consistency?

• How do they ensure terminology is consistently used across meetings?

• Do they have a deep understanding of the specialized terminology in your field?

• Are your interpreters willing to adapt to your own specialized glossary or industry-specific terminologies?

Without consistent terminology, misinterpretations can lead to legal disputes, medical errors, or financial confusion.

Read more: Avoiding Interpretation Errors

4. Are they using technology effectively?

Technology isn't just about fancy gadgets; it can be a vital tool in interpreting.

• Do your selected interpreters use video remote interpreting (VRI), telephone interpreting or digital glossaries?

• Do they have access to technology tools that can improve their accuracy?

• How do they use digital tools to support accuracy?

Technology can make real-time interpretation more efficient, especially in fast-paced environments such as hospitals or courtrooms.

5. Do your interpreters prepare thoroughly before each session?

Preparation is everything when it comes to quality interpretation.

• What preparation process do interpreters follow before each session?

• Are they provided with key documents, such as contracts or agendas, before the meeting?

• Do they review the subject matter and familiarize themselves with the necessary terminology before each session?

• Are they briefed on the goals of the interpreting session and the client's preferences?

Preparation ensures that interpreters are ready to handle any linguistic or cultural nuances that may arise.

Read more: Interpreter Etiquette for Long Sessions

6. Are they active listeners?

Active listening goes beyond hearing - it is about fully understanding both the explicit and implicit meanings of the speaker's words.

• Are your interpreters skilled in actively listening to the speaker, capturing both the content and the intent behind the words?

• Are they trained to manage complex business discussions?

• How do your interpreters ensure they fully understand the speaker’s intent?

• Are they capable of staying focused throughout the meeting, even during complex discussions?

Without active listening, critical information may be lost, leading to costly misunderstandings.

7. Do your interpreters ask for clarifications when necessary?

Nobody knows everything, and even the best interpreters may need to ask for clarification.

• Are your interpreters comfortable asking for clarification when they're not sure about a word or phrase?

• Do they avoid making assumptions that could lead to inaccuracies?

• What procedures are in place to avoid misinterpretation?

Interpreters who ask the right questions ensure that information is not misunderstood.

8. Can real-time feedback be given?

Real-time feedback is critical to maintaining accuracy throughout the interpreting session.

• Do they have a system in place for real-time feedback to be provided to them during the session?

• Can participants offer immediate corrections or clarifications?

• How are corrections handled in real-time to ensure accuracy?

Real-time adjustments help keep interpretation on track and prevent small problems from escalating into larger ones.

9. Are cultural sensitivities respected?

Cultural sensitivity isn't just a bonus - it's essential for accurate and respectful communication.

• Are your interpreters culturally competent, ensuring that they understand the cultural backgrounds of both parties?

• Do they navigate cultural differences to avoid misunderstandings?

• How do your interpreters handle cultural differences during business negotiations?

• Do they know how to handle potential cultural conflicts?

In sensitive areas such as healthcare or international business, misinterpreting cultural nuances can lead to offensive or incorrect interpretations.

Read more: Why Accuracy Should Be Your Top Priority in Interpretation

10. Are post-session evaluations conducted?

Nobody is perfect, which is why post-session evaluations are critical to continuous improvement.

• Are there post-session evaluations conducted to identify areas where interpreters can improve?

• Are interpreters encouraged to seek feedback and self-evaluate their performance?

• Do they incorporate client feedback to improve future interpretation sessions?

Consistent reviews help interpreters hone their skills and maintain the highest standards of accuracy over time.

Conclusion: Is your interpretation truly accurate?

Ensuring accurate interpretation for your business requires more than just language skills-it requires in-depth industry knowledge, cultural competence, and the right use of technology. By following this checklist, you can be confident in selecting interpreters who deliver precision and reliability. 

For seamless, industry-specific interpretation, Tomedes offers a global network of professionals ready to meet your business needs. Contact us today to learn how we can support your business with expert interpretation.