To handle last-minute changes as an interpreter, you’ll need a positive attitude and the readiness to change the strategy and adapt to unplanned scenarios.
First, the candidate should remain calm and composed during the entire process of recruitment. Learn as much as you can about the conference topic and any subjects related to it. Refresh the orientation information, terms, and key notions in advance. It is easier to change one’s mind if one has a general idea of what the overall information is on the subject.
A conference interpreter should also utilize technology and other available resources. Even in cases where the passage contains words the reader is not familiar with, the reader can quickly consult a list of glossaries, a dictionary, or any internet resource.
It is also common for a conference interpreter to have one or more specialized reference applications or tools installed in their mobile device for quick reference access based on the stored information. You must also communicate well with the event coordinators and your interpreting colleague.
Ensure that you are up to date on any changes in the schedule, the speakers, or if a new presentation has been added. In the remaining time, ask for new documents or slide decks, if any. Last but not least, trust in your abilities and prior training. Change is the rule rather than the exception in conference interpreting, and every case contributes to your advancement.
