How To Become an Interpreter | Gaining Experience and Getting Hired

Summary

In this video, Rashelle LeCaptain, CEO and founder of Connecting Cultures, and Erin Rosales, Director of Interpreter Development, share insights on building a resume and gaining experience as an interpreter without field opportunities. They emphasize the importance of initial training, understanding healthcare environments, and leveraging educational resources. The speakers suggest creative approaches like using videos for skill development and focusing on specific medical areas. They highlight the value of demonstrating dedication to continuous learning and effective research in job interviews, offering practical tips for aspiring interpreters.

Takeaways

• 📘 Completing an initial training program is a foundational step for aspiring interpreters, providing the basic knowledge and skills to start thinking like a professional.
• 🔍 Interpreters should focus on understanding the healthcare setting and its various environments and concepts, even without direct employment.
• 🎓 A certificate from a training program is a valuable addition to an interpreter's portfolio, demonstrating foundational knowledge and commitment to the profession.
• 💡 Thinking creatively about gaining experience is crucial, especially when direct field experience is limited, by using resources like educational videos and online materials.
• 🌐 Utilizing video-based resources can help interpreters familiarize themselves with medical terminology and concepts, and practice interpreting skills in a simulated setting.
• 🗣️ Interpreters should practice interpreting parts of videos to develop their skills, especially focusing on understanding medical concepts rather than memorizing every word.
• 📚 Building a portfolio that showcases the resources used for self-study and the development of interpreting skills is an effective way to demonstrate expertise.
• 🏥 Specializing in a particular area of healthcare, such as endocrinology, can be a strategic approach to entering the interpreting field, especially if there's a high demand for interpreters in that specialty.
• 📈 Developing a glossary and conducting interviews with medical professionals can enhance an interpreter's knowledge and make them more attractive to potential employers.
• 📧 A well-crafted resume and cover letter that highlight dedication to continuous learning and the steps taken to compensate for lack of formal experience can be persuasive to hiring managers.
• 🚫 Avoid starting with broad areas like primary care, as they can present a wide range of unexpected medical topics that may be challenging for new interpreters to handle without specific preparation.

Q & A

Who are the hosts of the video and what are their roles at Connecting Cultures?

The hosts of the video are Rashelle LeCaptain, the CEO and founder of Connecting Cultures, and Erin Rosales, the director of Interpreter Development.

What is the main topic of the video?

The main topic of the video is discussing strategies for building a resume and gaining experience as an interpreter when one does not have the opportunity to gain field experience.

What is the significance of completing an initial training program for aspiring interpreters?

Completing an initial training program is significant as it provides foundational knowledge and skills necessary to start thinking like a professional interpreter, including exposure to a code of ethics, protocols, medical terminology, and roleplay practice.

Why is it important for interpreters to 'think like an interpreter' according to the video?

It is important for interpreters to 'think like an interpreter' because it helps them to adopt the correct mindset and approach towards their role, which is essential for making interpreting a viable career and for meeting the expectations of the profession.

What are some ways to gain experience as an interpreter without being employed in the field?

Some ways to gain experience include conducting research to understand healthcare settings, watching educational videos and YouTube channels, and practicing interpreting by listening to videos and interpreting the content, even if it's on one's own.

How can interpreters demonstrate their dedication to the profession when they lack field experience?

Interpreters can demonstrate their dedication by conducting systematic research, familiarizing themselves with different healthcare departments and areas, and building a portfolio that showcases the resources they've used to gain knowledge and improve their interpreting skills.

What is the role of videos in helping interpreters gain knowledge about medical concepts?

Videos play a crucial role by allowing interpreters to vicariously insert themselves into different medical concepts and settings, helping them to get familiar with the vernacular and procedures, and to practice their interpreting skills in a simulated environment.

Why is it suggested to focus on a specific area of specialization when starting out as an interpreter?

Focusing on a specific area of specialization helps interpreters to develop a deep understanding of that particular field, making them more valuable and better prepared for job opportunities in high-need areas.

What are some potential challenges interpreters might face when working in primary care settings?

Interpreters in primary care settings might face challenges due to the broad range of medical topics that can arise during patient encounters, which could include unexpected diagnoses and conditions not initially prepared for.

How can interpreters effectively research and prepare for their assignments to compensate for lack of experience?

Interpreters can effectively prepare by conducting focused and systematic research on specific medical areas, developing familiarity with terminology and procedures, creating glossary lists, and possibly interviewing medical professionals to gain insights.

What is the importance of building a strong resume and cover letter for interpreters seeking employment?

A strong resume and cover letter are important for interpreters as they demonstrate dedication to the field, the research conducted, and the efforts made to compensate for a lack of formal experience, which can be appealing to potential employers.