The basic skills of an interpreter

Must know at least 2 languages
To become an interpreter, you need to know at least 2 languages, and at the same time
know how to use the language coherently, seriously, with clear sentences and correct
grammar.
Must be culturally savvy
In addition to being good at foreign languages, interpreters also need to have a rich
vocabulary, understanding of the culture, customs, and at the same time understand the
dialects used by the local people to be able to apply them to the situation’s reality and at
the same time expressing them in a natural way.
Must be fluent in the mother tongue
What an English interpreter needs, is to be fluent in the mother tongue. Interpreters need
to know how to use structures, words, etc., so that they can best express the office or
another language. This is a key factor for interpreters to use standard, coherent and
logical words when interpreting.

A good interpreter needs quick reactions, flexible judgment, and good memory so that he
can handle unexpected situations. To do this, you need to practice regularly and
constantly strive to learn.
Have the ability to look up
What do English interpreters need? That is the ability to look up, because this is an
extremely necessary skill to help interpreters perfect the translation in the best way. The
field in which interpreters work is very diverse, so there are many specialties that

interpreters cannot fully understand. Therefore, interpreters need to seek help from tools
such as dictionaries to look up the meaning of each sentence and word.
Must be responsible for the profession
Any profession requires responsibility. And interpreters too, interpreters need to put
themselves in the position of the communicator to be able to translate most accurately,
and always carefully check every detail before and after the translation, from smallest
detail.

Must know technology and office informatics
Living in the era of science and technology, the internet is booming, interpreters need to
know information technology to be able to align the text form, refine the content as well
as the language. This will make partners and customers appreciate your professionalism.
Find out more information about the language major where you study to choose a good
study environment to create wider career opportunities!
In addition to finding out what an English interpreter needs, you should also find out
what interpreters should stay away from, including:
• Having a difficult voice, losing your voice.
• Use local language to translate
• Using inappropriate language
• Slow and messy working style
In short, to be a good interpreter, you need to know what an English interpreter needs and
what is not. If you are planning to pursue a career as an interpreter, save these useful
things.