As these are two different skill sets, the career paths and job options for each are different. However some people choose to take qualifications which allow them to do both.
Below is a brief overview of the differences between the two:
Translating
- Source material is text
- Involves reading and writing
- Requires absolute accuracy
- Time to check and review output
- Working to deadlines
Interpreting
- Source material is the spoken word
- Involves listening and speaking
- Focus on conveying tone, ideas and key messages
- Conducted in "real time" and at a fast pace
Here below are some examples of the different types of interpreting:
Consecutive Interpreting - the interpreter listens to the speaker and takes notes, then delivers the speech in the target language
Simultaneous interpreting - (often used at multi-lateral organisations eg: UN, EU) interpreters work in sound proof booths listening with headphones, then interpret in the target language
Language Skills
Translators and interpreters generally translate ‘into’; their “mother tongue” or their ‘main language’ (although there are of course exceptions, depending upon the circumstances). This is their ‘target’ language, into which they will translate material from the ‘source’ language. So, if you have studied French, but are a native English speaker, you are likely to work from the source language of French into your “mother tongue” or “main language2 – English.
N.B. Some organisations have very specific language requirements to work for them - ensure that you have reviewed these thoroughly.
For example some institutions such as the EU categorise languages as “A/B/C/” languages.
A is your ‘main language/mother tongue’
B is the second language of which you have an excellent command. You might occasionally interpret/translate into this, but only from your main language/mother tongue.
C is a passive language. You are expected to have a high level of proficiency in this language, but may not have the same levels of fluency as in your A and B languages, which you could use as your source language.
Qualifications & Skills required
Some roles do not require additional qualifications eg: some translation roles. However industry recognised courses and qualifications can broaden your work options significantly.
N.B. Always check before starting a course that the qualification is valued and recognised by potential future employers.
Postgraduate Study
Master's Courses - Completing an MA in Interpreting, Translating or both can be helpful - choose the university wisely and check to see where their graduates go on to work eg: University of Bath
Professional Diploma - The Chartered Institute of Linguists (CIOL) is a highly regarded institution offering diplomas and preparation courses in Translation and Public Service Interpreting.
Other skills
As well as your language knowledge, common skills cited across both interpreting and translation roles include:
- Professionalism
- Flexibility/adaptability
- Interest in current affairs and general knowledge
- Analytical skills
- Research skills
- Curiousity
- Strong cultural awareness
Additional skills for Interpreting
- Empathy
- Tact and diplomacy
- Good public speaking
- Stamina
- Calmness under pressure
- Initiative
- Note-taking
- Teamwork
Additional Skills for Translation
- Networking skills
- Attention to detail
- Organisational skills
- Writing skills
- Subject knowledge (you could work in a specialist field based on your subject knowledge of law, medicine, etc…)
- IT skills
Getting experience
Getting first-hand experience is a good way to ‘try out’ translation or interpreting activities, and to build your awareness of the skills you might want to develop further, although there aren’t as many formal internships as there are in other sectors.
Getting experience at Oxford
• Research local charities which work, or might wish to work, with non-English speakers (e.g. Asylum Welcome and Jacari) and see if there’s a way they can use your language skills.
• Join Oxford student groups which focus on nationals from a particular country or language. See if you can use your skills to support events, committees or projects.
• If you’re looking to build your language skills further, you might want to review the British Council’s options to work/volunteer and improve your languages
• Language-related internships are also sometimes advertised on CareerConnect.
• The majority of work experience opportunities are likely to come from translation and interpreting agencies. Use the links in ‘External Resources’ to find organisations in your preferred region. Explore their websites or get in touch with them to see if you can help their work.
Will I get paid?
Internships and summer jobs are governed in the UK by National Minimum Wage law, which means that if you are carrying out activities that class you as a “worker” by the employer, then you should be paid. Full details of Employment Rights and Pay for Interns are published by the government.
If you are undertaking a learning and development opportunity such as a micro-internship, or volunteering for a charity or statutory body, or shadowing or observing, then you may not be eligible for the National Minimum Wage. The organisation may reimburse you for your travel and/or lunch expenses, but they aren’t obliged to do so.
