The United States has long been a linguistic melting pot (despite efforts to brand English as an “official” language). As our country’s demographics change, the number of Americans who don’t speak English as their primary language has been growing rapidly. According to the American Community Survey in 2011, about 60.6 million Americans don’t speak English at home. When reaching such a large population is critical, on-site interpreters are ready to serve as the vital communication link to limited English speaking patients and clients.
Whether you work in healthcare, for the government, or in the private sector, you have likely experienced the challenge of communicating effectively with Limited English Proficient (LEP) clients. There are times when clients need someone at their side rather than an interpreter on the phone. On-site interpreting is beneficial for meetings or interactions that require visual contact. From medical appointments to meetings or interviews, an on-site translator can seamlessly facilitate communication between you and your client.
Translators are highly trained, possessing the knowledge and experience necessary to convey complex subject matter. They possess great intellectual capacity, educational background, multiple language skills, and the emotional maturity to communicate with limited English-speaking communities. On-site translators act as message clarifiers by not only converting the meaning of a message from one language to another, but by also translating certain beliefs or practices that lack equivalent terms. Well-trained interpreters can communicate both verbally and non-verbally, in such a way that their presence is barely noticed.
Having a trained interpreter can save your business time and resources by decreasing inefficiency and mistakes while increasing comprehension and satisfaction. Professionally trained on-site interpreters can offer your client a personal approach to your services. The gender and dialect of the interpreter can be specified by the client, which can be particularly beneficial when discussing personal, sensitive issues.
Interpreting is not a service left to any untrained individuals—it is a service to provide a linguistic and cultural link to non-English speakers. At Executive Language Services, we only employ highly trained professionals who are reliable and excellent communicators. Contact us today to learn more about how you can bridge the gap!
