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.

Outlines

00:00

👋 Introduction to Connecting Cultures and Resume Building

Hi everybody, welcome back to our YouTube channel! My name is Rashelle LeCaptain, I'm the CEO and founder of Connecting Cultures, and I'm Erin Rosales, director of Interpreter Development with Connecting Cultures. Today we wanted to talk to you about building your resume and gaining experience when you don't have the opportunity to get in the field. Completing an initial training program is a crucial starting point. This can be a short course of 40-160 hours where you get the foundational components to start thinking like a professional interpreter. This training exposes you to the code of ethics, interpreter protocols, medical terminology, and skills practice through roleplays. This foundational knowledge is essential for starting your career in interpreting.

05:00

📚 Overcoming Employment Hurdles

Once you complete a training program and have your certificate, you might still face challenges in finding employment due to lack of experience. To bridge this gap, you can start by researching healthcare settings and concepts. Educational videos, YouTube channels, and other video-based resources can help you vicariously gain knowledge and build your portfolio. Demonstrating your dedication to learning and explaining your self-driven research can replace the need for formal experience in interviews.

🩺 Gaining Practical Skills Through Research

Here at Connecting Cultures, we value raw skills over formal experience. Engaging with educational videos and interpreting them on your own helps you become familiar with medical terminology and concepts. Practicing with videos in both languages of your language pair enhances your skills. It's important to focus on concepts rather than every single word, as you won't always know every term in healthcare. Instead, concentrate on understanding procedures, environments, and patient interactions.

🎯 Specializing and Preparing for Interviews

Targeting a specific area of healthcare can be beneficial. If there's a high demand for interpreters in a specialization like endocrinology, focus your research and skills practice in that area. Building a portfolio, glossary lists, and interviewing professionals in the field can help you demonstrate your preparedness during job interviews. Showing your dedication to continuous learning and effective research can compensate for lack of formal experience.

🚀 Building a Comprehensive Resume and Portfolio

After your initial training, continue to research and specialize in specific areas. Avoid overwhelming yourself by being systematic in your research. Create a detailed resume and cover letter that highlight your dedication and the research you have done. This approach helps you gain experience and shows potential employers your commitment to the profession. Thank you for watching! If you liked the video, be sure to like, comment, subscribe, and share. Have a great day!

Keywords

💡Resume Building

Resume building is the process of creating or enhancing a document that outlines an individual's professional experience, skills, and qualifications. In the context of the video, it is crucial for aspiring interpreters to build a strong resume to showcase their abilities and make themselves more attractive to potential employers. The script emphasizes the importance of including initial training program completion and other relevant experiences to bridge the gap when actual field experience is lacking.

💡Initial Training Program

An initial training program is the foundational course that provides the basic knowledge and skills required for a profession. In the video, it is highlighted as a starting point for interpreters to gain foundational components such as the code of ethics, protocols, medical terminology, and roleplay practice. The program's duration can vary, but the key takeaway is the introduction to thinking like a professional interpreter.

💡Interpreter Development

Interpreter development refers to the process of acquiring and enhancing the skills necessary to become a professional interpreter. The video discusses this concept in terms of completing training programs, understanding healthcare settings, and gaining experience through research and self-study. It is a continuous process that goes beyond formal education and involves practical application and self-directed learning.

💡Healthcare Setting

The healthcare setting is the environment where medical care is provided, including hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities. The script suggests that interpreters should understand different healthcare environments and concepts, even without direct employment, by using educational resources like videos and websites to familiarize themselves with medical jargon and procedures.

💡Medical Terminology

Medical terminology refers to the specialized language used in the medical field, including technical terms for diagnoses, procedures, and conditions. The video emphasizes the importance of interpreters having a reasonable foundation in medical terminology to effectively communicate in healthcare settings. This knowledge is typically gained through initial training programs and further self-study.

💡Roleplay

Roleplay is a method of practicing and honing skills by simulating real-life situations. In the context of interpreter training, roleplay in a classroom setting allows individuals to practice their interpreting skills in a controlled environment, preparing them for actual interpreting scenarios. The script mentions roleplay as part of the foundational components taught in initial training programs.

💡Vicarious Interpreting

Vicarious interpreting is the practice of interpreting without direct involvement in the situation, such as by watching videos and interpreting the content as a form of practice. The video suggests using videos from healthcare providers to interpret medical tutorials and how-tos as a way to gain practical skills and familiarity with medical concepts without actual field experience.

💡Concepts

In the context of interpreting, concepts refer to the general ideas or themes being discussed in a medical conversation, rather than focusing on every specific word. The video script highlights the importance of understanding concepts in healthcare, as interpreters are unlikely to know every medical term but can convey the essential meaning of the dialogue.

💡Specialization

Specialization in interpreting refers to focusing on a particular area of medicine, such as endocrinology, to develop a deeper understanding and expertise. The video advises aspiring interpreters to consider targeting a high-need area of specialization to enhance their employability and demonstrate dedication to continuous learning in that specific field.

💡Continuous Learning

Continuous learning is the ongoing process of acquiring new knowledge and skills throughout one's career. The video emphasizes the importance of continuous learning for interpreters, as the medical field is vast and constantly evolving. Demonstrating a commitment to continuous learning can be a significant factor for hiring managers when considering job candidates.

💡Primary Care

Primary care refers to the first point of contact for patients within the healthcare system, typically provided by general practitioners or family doctors. The script mentions primary care as a broad area that interpreters might consider specializing in, but also warns of the potential challenges of its wide scope, suggesting that focusing on more specific areas might be beneficial for beginners.

Highlights

Building a resume and gaining experience in the absence of field opportunities is discussed.

The importance of completing an initial training program to lay the foundation for professional interpreting.

The initial training program introduces ethics, protocols, medical terminology, and roleplay practice.

The necessity to think like a professional interpreter to open doors for a career.

The distinction between interpreters and helpers in the professional setting.

Strategies to gain experience when formal employment is not available.

The suggestion to understand healthcare settings and environments through research and educational materials.

The creative approach of using educational videos and YouTube channels to gain exposure to medical concepts.

The value of building a portfolio to demonstrate self-study and dedication to the interpreting profession.

The emphasis on using videos for practical skill development even without direct experience.

The recommendation to focus on understanding concepts rather than memorizing every word in healthcare interpreting.

The advice on targeting and specializing in areas of high need for interpreters.

The strategy of developing familiarity with specific medical fields like endocrinology to enhance employability.

The importance of demonstrating continuous learning and foundational skills in job interviews.

The caution against starting with broad areas like primary care due to the wide range of topics it covers.

The suggestion to specialize in a specific medical area before expanding to broader fields.

The method of systematic research to avoid feeling overwhelmed and to build a strong resume.

The advice on how to demonstrate dedication to the field through a cover letter and resume.

Encouragement to like, comment, subscribe, and share the video for more insights on interpreter development.

Transcripts

Hi everybody, welcome back to our YouTube channel!

My name is Rashelle LeCaptain, I'm the CEO and founder

of Connecting Cultures.

And I'm Erin Rosales, director of Interpreter Development

with Connecting Cultures.

Today we wanted to talk to you a little bit about

building your resume and building experience

when you don't have the opportunity to get in the field

and actually gain that experience.

And there's a few things that you can do, but we wanted to

break down the steps a little bit so that you can

build your resume

and be available for hire.

So, one of the things that, you know, is an important

starting point and stepping stone is, of course,

completing an initial training program.

So, in that initial training program, there's a variety of

lengths of programs out there,

but if we're thinking about just kind of a short course scenario,

maybe 40 hours, maybe 160 hours, whatever, you know,

kind of short course time frame you're looking at,

you're going to be getting the foundational components to be

able to kind of start thinking like a professional interpreter.

“Start” thinking like are kind of some of those key words

I want you to think about in there.

So, you'll get presented with and exposed to code of ethics,

protocols for interpreters,

you'll probably get a reasonable foundation for

different medical terminology,

you'll hopefully have some skills practice for

roleplays in a classroom setting,

and kind of get your bearings for the foundational

components of what professional interpreters

would need to then enter into the profession.

Those are very high level and short kind of

introductions into interpreting.

So that would be one thing to have in your portfolio.

Right. And it's really important to think like an interpreter

because that's what gives you the money.

That's what opens the door for you to be able to

make this a career.

I stress a lot about interpreters aren't helpers.

So, we really want to make sure that we

take our training and that initial introduction

and really switch a mindset into, "Okay, here's my role

and this is my purpose within that.”

So, when you've successfully completed a training program,

great! You know, you've got this certificate to say you've

achieved this particular requirement,

and then when you're looking for employment,

you're hitting some hurdles

because now people have expectations of a certain

number of years of interpreting, or

a certain number of hours in a particular context, or whatever

that is, and how do you bridge that gap?

And so, we wanted to suggest a few ways that you can

gain experience, even if you haven't had an opportunity yet

to have experience as a paid or contract individual.

Right. So, one thing that you can do

is take your thinking and start digging in and researching.

One of the main things that we want to look at

is really understanding the healthcare setting

and the different environments, the different concepts

and taking that information and applying it to that.

So, how can you expose yourself to a healthcare environment

without, you know, having that employment?

And so, you have to start to think creatively.

What are the different educational videos,

YouTube channels, websites, especially video based because

it kind of gives you a way to vicariously insert yourself into

different medial concepts and settings, and how do you

demonstrate and keep track of

the different areas of specialization or the different

concepts that you have spent your own time

dedicating and studying to, and really, truly, building a portfolio

Saying, these are the different resources that I've used to

gain knowledge in a particular medical area

and how I have worked to improve and develop and strengthen

interpreting skills even in a vicarious interpreting scenario.

Right. And so, here at Connecting Cultures, we don't

necessarily hire interpreters,

we hire people that have the raw skills.

And so, when you're doing this type of research

and getting familiar with departments and areas,

you want to be able to explain that

because that shows your dedication to the profession,

it can replace your experience, and using videos, I think,

is key. Then you can even, if you find some good provider

videos, or doctors, or nurses, or healthcare specialists

that have tutorials and how to's and that kind of thing,

you could listen to part of the video, interpret it.

Listen to part of it, interpret it.

And so, you can start using those practical skills,

even if it's on your own, you're going to get familiar with that

vernacular and get your mouth moving,

and even looking for providers and videos in both languages,

in your language pair

because that's going to give you the opposite of that.

The other thing to think about too is, you don't want to get

too caught up in every single last detailed word.

We're looking for concepts as well because in healthcare,

you're never going to know every word.

It's just not going to happen. We've had videos previously

that talked about clarification and repetition.

A lot of the conversation is dialogue

and it's talking to the patient, you're not necessarily

necessarily interpreting “doctor speak” in that encounter

So, it's about getting concepts, it's familiarity,

it's procedures, it's environment.

And so, those are the things that you want to look for.

If you're thinking about also, kind of getting your groundwork

in a particular area, Rashelle, you know, you just really

mentioned, healthcare is so broad, so try to kind of maybe

target and specialize your entry level points.

So, if you know that there's an area that has a high need

in a particular specialization.

Maybe your language, culture pair has a high need of

interpreters in endocrinology.

So, spend a lot of time

developing your familiarity with endocrinology

using the skills practice,

developing your portfolio, glossary lists, and other things

having a chance to maybe interview medical professionals

in that area, so that

when you're sitting down for that job interview,

you can demonstrate to the hiring manager

what you have done to compensate for your lack of

field experience in a formal way.

And let me tell you, as people who do hire individuals,

that goes a long way to be able to show

how dedicated you are as a professional to

continuous learning

because you're never going to know every last word.

So, you need those foundational skills to show

that you know how to do effective research,

to be prepared as best possible for every single scenario.

And one thing that you might want to jump to,

and Erin and I were talking about this, is primary care.

So, pediatrics, general practice internal medicine,

you might put physical therapy in there.

But that might actually be a rabbit hole

that you want to avoid in the beginning.

Yeah, so, you know, primary care as an area of specialization,

is just so broad. You might go to an assignment thinking

that you're going to be talking about chronic knee pain,

and, sure, that's part of the topic,

but then the list of other medical diagnoses and conditions

that the patient is also experiencing come into that conversation.

So, while you were prepared for talking about knee pain,

or a knee injury, or whatever it is regarding the knee,

then all of a sudden, they're talking about cholesterol,

and now maybe they're talking about, you know,

depression medication, and now they're talking about

other family members who see the same doctor.

And so, that can present an opportunity to find youself in a

scenario that you didn't have an opportunity to prepare for

as much as had you had known, you know, that you were talking about

endocrinology,

or that you're talking about, you know, physical therapy

might actually be a specific scope that might be a good

starting place.

So, thinking about areas of specialization to kind of grow

and then add into other specializations into your portfolio.

So, in order to gain that experience,

you've gone through your initial training,

you're familiar with the concepts, you've learned how to

think like an interpreter,

now you're going to take that thinking brain,

you're going to go do some research,

be systematic about the research if you start to shotgun it,

you're going to be very, very overwhelmed.

And build your resume so that you can take some time,

a cover letter,

a certain segment so you can demonstrate your dedication

to the field and the research that you've done.

And that's a way to gain experience when you don't

actually have experience.

So, we thank everybody for watching!

If you liked the video, be sure to like it, comment, subscribe, share.

It was great talking to you today, and we hope it's a good day!

Take care!