Shital Kakkar Mehta tells us how to work with an interpreter
A lot of business can be lost in translation, while working with global clients. To avoid that, hold on to your interpreter says
In cross-border negotiations, it helps to retain the services of an interpreter, even if your overseas counterpart has a basic working knowledge of English. Interpreters are trained professionals, who facilitate communication while maintaining the strictest levels of confidentiality.
PRE-MEETING STRATEGY
Invest time explaining your business and the objective of the meeting to the interpreter. This helps improve the quality and the speed of interpretation as he/she understands the technical terms you will use during the meeting. Build a level of comfort with the interpreter, so that they are at ease stopping you to clarify a point, during the meeting.
BUSINESS MEETING
Make introductions; shake hands, exchange greetings and business cards (dual language) with all the members of your counterpart's team.
NON-VERBAL SIGNALS
When speaking / listening, maintain direct eye contact with your counterpart and not with the interpreter. Use positive body language like smiling and nodding to show interest. Avoid gestures, as they have varied meanings across the world. Advise your interpreter on the expected dress-code.
SEATING PROTOCOL
Interpreters are seated next to the decision-maker, opposite the counterpart's interpreter.
SPEAKING EFFECTIVELY
Speak clearly, slowly, use simple vocabulary and short sentences. This makes it easier for the interpreter to remember your conversation. Pepper your conversation with pauses, giving the interpreter time to relay a nugget of information. Ask one question at a time and be patient. Avoid slang, excessive jargon, idioms and humor, which rarely translate well in another language.
PACE
Business meetings use consecutive interpreting. It is advisable to maintain a slow pace, as your counterpart will be always a few sentences behind you.
CLOSURE
Thank your counterpart, their interpreter and your interpreter. To show interest learn the greeting, thank you and good-bye in your counterpart's language.
INTERNATIONAL
In Japan and Korea, both sides generally retain their own interpreters. In China, although the younger Chinese may have a working knowledge of English, they prefer to retain interpreters believing it helps them understand certain nuances better. Interpreters “interpret thinking and not just words” which can be a big asset in crossborder negotiations!