3 interpreting solutions unfamiliar to most companies

Simultaneous and consecutive interpreting - these remain the most popular methods in which most companies place their trust for international communication. But what if you're looking for a more practical or budget-friendly alternative? In that case, whisper interpreters, relay interpreters or conversational interpreters can offer a fitting solution.

These methods do not require any additional equipment and offer the necessary flexibility. These are especially worth considering for multilingual meetings, online negotiations, litigation or training.

The options of whisper interpreting, relay interpreting and conversational interpreting may have escaped your attention. We are happy to explain exactly what these forms of interpreting entail - and how your company can benefit from them.

1. Whisper interpreters

A typical real-life example: An international manager visits your company and attends an internal meeting. Thanks to whisper interpreters, they are able to fully understand everything without disrupting the flow of the meeting.

Discrete and efficient - ideal for small groups or individual participants: whisper interpreting.

In whisper interpreting, the interpreter sits, stands, or moves right next to or just behind the person who needs the translation. They whisper a translation of what is being said into the listener's ear almost simultaneously. Whisper interpreting is essentially a form of simultaneous interpreting, but without special equipment such as booths or headsets. The major benefit? Flexibility.

When is whisper interpreting interesting?

• for international company visits or tours, perhaps with an additional programme such as a museum visit
• during meetings where one or two participants needs translation, e.g. at a (court) hearing
• for courses or training with international participants, such as employees

The benefits of whisper interpreting for your company:

• no technical installation required
• rapid deplyment
• barely any disruption

2. Relay interpreting

A typical real-life example: A global project meeting with participants from China, Italy, Brazil, and Belgium. Thanks to relay interpreting, everyone understands the content in their own language.

When many languages converge - and direct translation is not an option: relay interpreting

Relay interpreting offers a solution when direct translation between two languages is not an option, such as with rare language combinations. This is where a so-called relay language or pivot language is used. The common language is usually English or French. The major benefit? By working with one or more pivot languages, we limit the number of individual language combinations within a single assignment. Choosing more common languages means that interpreters are more readily available while lowering the required budget.

How does it work?

One interpreter translates from Chinese to English, for example. Other interpreters listen to that English translation and in turn convert it into the desired target language. In our example, to Dutch, Portuguese, or Italian. This makes your life as an organiser a lot easier: rather than having to find interpreters for Chinese-Dutch, Chinese-Portuguese or Chinese-Italian, all you need is Chinese-English.

When is relay interpreting interesting?

• during multilingual conferences, also with less common language combinations
• at international project or team meetings
• for language combinations that are so rare that the supply of interpreters is limited and expensive
• for events where insufficient specialised interpreters are available

The benefits of relay interpreting for your company:

• smooth communication, even in a complex, multilingual setting
• flexible deployment of interpreter teams with different language backgrounds

3. Conversational interpreting (liaison interpreting)

A typical real-life example: A Belgian company is negotiating new contract terms with Japanese suppliers. A conversational interpreter ensures a smooth, balanced, and focused conversation.

Flexible and dynamic - ideal for important business conversations: conversational interpreters

In consecutive interpreting, the interpreter springs into action only after short pauses or at the end of the message. Conversational or liaison interpreting is a specific form of consecutive interpreting. The interpreter translates both ways in short sentences, usually right after each person has spoken. This technique is particularly suitable for situations with a limited number of interlocutors or for rather informal dialogue.

When is conversational interpreting interesting?

• when negotiating contracts or prices
• during legal advice to international clients
• during company visits or meetings with foreign partners

The benefits of conversational interpreting for your company:

• The personal and confidential atmosphere of the conversation is maintained.
• Questions and responses can be submitted directly.

Conclusion: Choose the right interpreting technique to optimise value for money and take your communication to the next level

Not every situation requires the same interpreting solution. Those who limit themselves to simultaneous or consecutive interpreting may miss out on an approach that would make a difference. Whisper interpreting, relay interpreting, and conversational interpreting are powerful tools for making complex multilingual communication run smoothly and professionally. From the very first meeting to getting the contract signed.

Find out which type of interpreter you need here

Contact us for advice today! Your interpreting solution with ELAN Languages

Are you organising an international meeting, a training session or an important negotiation? Our experienced project management team will help you choose the right interpreting technique - perfectly tailored to your business goals and context. 👉 Find out more now