What sets humans apart from other animals is their ability to use elaborate language to communicate. There is no doubt that language plays an important part in human existence. Ironically, language that was created to help in uniting people can also cause a divide. Interpreters exist to break this divide and make life easier. Some of the most important factors of having a trained interpreter include:
They reduce stress
Imagine the chaos that would happen if you suddenly could not understand what people around you are saying, or if you were desperately trying to communicate yet nobody was grasping your message. It can be a stressful experience, especially if you are in an emergency situation. Having an interpreter makes things easier, as they act as the link between you and the world around you.
They uphold confidentiality when sensitive information is involved
Trained interpreters are bound by ethics to ensure the messages they deliver are confidential. This means people who are using these interpreters can be confident that their secrets are safe even when discussing sensitive information. There are instances when interpreters have had to sign a confidentiality statement to assure the people they will work with.
Makes movement easy
This is especially important for people who are traveling or touring a country. Sometimes, the best experiences are in native areas where most people do not speak a second language. If you want to go partying and you don’t want to take a gamble and end up in a gay nightclub by saying the wrong thing, you should consider taking a trained interpreter with you.
They help in medical emergencies
Think of what would happen if you develop a medical condition, but you do not have a way of expressing yourself? That is where a trained interpreter comes in. Their job goes beyond communicating what patients are feeling. Medical interpreters are trained to break down the jargon used in hospitals and package information in simpler language.
They reduce discomfort and awkwardness during meetings
It can be uncomfortable hanging out with people when you do not understand each other. The awkward silences that sometimes drive people to play with their phones or walk away from meetings due to language barriers are properly dealt with when there is an interpreter. They help people connect and are always willing to introduce people to one another.
They help visitors understand the culture
The work of a professional interpreter is not restricted to making communication between two people easier. Interpreters can also act as guides to help visitors understand more about a place. Since they always know the history and culture of the people around, they are best placed to explain the things that are happening, and to provide perspective on different aspects.