25 Interpreter Interview Questions and Answers

Do you have what it takes to be an interpreter? This career is all about communication. Interpreters bridge the gap between people who don’t share a common language. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, courtrooms, and schools.

If you’re looking to become an interpreter, you’ll need to be prepared to answer some common interview questions. In this article, we will provide you with some tips on how to answer interpreter job interview questions. We will also provide you with a list of sample questions and answers.

1. Are you comfortable working in high-pressure situations?

Interviewers may ask this question to determine how you handle stress and pressure. They want to know that you can perform your job well under challenging circumstances, so it’s important to answer honestly about your experience with high-pressure situations. If you have no experience working in a high-pressure environment, consider sharing an example of when you faced a challenge or stressful situation and overcame it.

Example: “Absolutely. I have a great deal of experience working in high-pressure situations, both as an Interpreter and in other roles. I’m comfortable with the pressure that comes along with interpreting for important meetings or events, and I understand how to remain calm and professional even when the situation is tense. I also have excellent problem solving skills which help me to quickly identify solutions to any issues that may arise.”

2. What are some of the most challenging aspects of being an interpreter?

This question can help the interviewer get a better idea of what your day-to-day responsibilities are as an interpreter. It also helps them understand how you might handle challenges in the future. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention some specific challenges that you have overcome and how you did so.

Example: “Interpreting can be a very challenging job, as it requires excellent communication skills and the ability to think quickly on your feet. One of the most difficult aspects is being able to accurately interpret between two languages while also conveying the same meaning in both languages. This means that I must have an extensive knowledge of both languages and their respective cultures in order to ensure accuracy. Another challenge is having to remain impartial when interpreting. It’s important for me to stay unbiased and provide accurate interpretations without any personal opinions or judgments. Finally, there are times when I’m required to interpret in high-pressure situations where time is limited and accuracy is essential. In these cases, I need to be able to focus and concentrate despite any distractions around me.”

3. How do you prepare for a interpreting assignment?

Interviewers may ask this question to learn about your process for preparing for a interpreting assignment. They want to know that you have the skills and knowledge necessary to complete the job well. In your answer, explain how you gather information before an assignment. Share what steps you take to prepare yourself for interpreting assignments.

Example: “When I am preparing for an interpreting assignment, I take a comprehensive approach. First, I research the subject matter of the assignment in order to gain a better understanding of the content and terminology that will be discussed. This allows me to anticipate any potential misunderstandings or difficulties that may arise during the interpretation process.

Next, I practice my language skills by reading and writing in both languages as much as possible. This helps me to stay sharp and ensure that my translations are accurate. Finally, I review the materials provided to me prior to the assignment so that I can familiarize myself with the context and key points of the conversation.”

4. What is your experience with working with diverse populations?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you might fit into their organization. It is important to highlight your experience working with diverse populations and any unique challenges you may have faced in these situations.

Example: “I have extensive experience working with diverse populations. I have been an interpreter for over five years, and in that time I have worked with individuals from a variety of backgrounds, including those who speak different languages, come from different cultures, and have varying levels of education.

I am comfortable working with people from all walks of life and can easily adapt to new situations. I understand the importance of being respectful and sensitive when communicating with people from different backgrounds, and I strive to ensure everyone is treated fairly and equally. I also make sure to take into account any cultural or language differences that may be present.”

5. Provide an example of a time when you had to be flexible in order to successfully interpret.

Interviewers may ask this question to assess your flexibility and adaptability. They want to know that you can adjust to different situations, even if they’re unexpected. In your answer, explain a situation where you had to be flexible and how it helped you interpret successfully.

Example: “I have had many opportunities to be flexible while working as an interpreter. One example that stands out in my mind is when I was interpreting for a large conference. The event organizers had not provided enough interpreters and the number of attendees was much larger than expected. In order to ensure that everyone could understand what was being said, I had to quickly adapt by taking on more responsibility and providing simultaneous interpretation for two different language groups at once.

This required me to be extremely organized and efficient with my time management skills. I made sure to take detailed notes throughout the day so that I could accurately interpret all of the information presented. I also had to pay close attention to both language groups simultaneously and adjust my speed accordingly. By staying focused and being flexible, I was able to successfully interpret the entire event without any issues.”

6. If you were asked to interpret a conversation between two people who were speaking different languages, how would you determine who is speaking first?

This question can help interviewers understand how you prioritize interpreting conversations and the steps you take to ensure accuracy. Use your answer to highlight your attention to detail, organizational skills and ability to work under pressure.

Example: “When interpreting a conversation between two people who are speaking different languages, I would first determine the context of the conversation. This will help me understand which language is being spoken by each person and what topics they may be discussing. Once I have this information, I can then use my experience as an interpreter to decide who should speak first. For example, if one person is asking questions and the other is providing answers, it would make sense for the questioner to start the conversation. On the other hand, if both parties are introducing themselves, it might be more appropriate for either person to begin.

In addition to assessing the context of the conversation, I also use body language cues to determine who should start talking. If one person appears to be eager to speak while the other seems hesitant or unsure, I would likely give the floor to the former. Finally, I always strive to create a comfortable environment where both parties feel heard and respected. This helps ensure that everyone involved in the conversation has their voice heard and understood.”

7. What would you do if you noticed that the people you were interpreting for were becoming frustrated or upset?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you react to challenging situations and whether you have experience handling them. In your answer, describe a situation in which you encountered this problem and what steps you took to resolve it or prevent it from happening again.

Example: “If I noticed that the people I was interpreting for were becoming frustrated or upset, my first priority would be to ensure their safety and comfort. I would take a step back and assess the situation, making sure to remain calm and professional throughout. Depending on the context of the conversation, I may suggest taking a break from the discussion in order to give everyone time to cool down and collect their thoughts.

I believe communication is key when it comes to successful interpretation. If needed, I would try to explain why certain words or phrases might have been misinterpreted, or offer alternative ways of expressing the same idea. My goal would always be to help facilitate understanding between both parties, while also maintaining respect for all involved.”

8. How well do you know the cultures that you interpret between?

This question can help the interviewer determine how much experience you have interpreting between cultures. Use your answer to highlight any specific cultural knowledge or skills that make you a good interpreter.

Example: “I have an extensive background in interpreting between cultures. I am fluent in both English and Spanish, which allows me to communicate effectively with individuals from a variety of backgrounds. I also have experience working with people from different countries and cultures, so I understand the nuances that come with communicating between them.

In addition to my language skills, I have studied various cultures extensively. This has allowed me to develop a deep understanding of cultural norms, values, and beliefs. I use this knowledge to ensure that I accurately interpret conversations between two parties. I strive to provide accurate translations while still being sensitive to cultural differences.”

9. Do you have experience performing simultaneous interpretation?

This question can help the interviewer determine your experience with simultaneous interpretation and how you feel about it. If you have previous experience, share a story or two from your past that highlights your ability to perform this task. If you don’t have any experience, consider sharing what you think it would be like if you did.

Example: “Yes, I do have experience performing simultaneous interpretation. For the past three years, I’ve been working as a professional interpreter for a variety of clients in both private and public settings. During this time, I have had the opportunity to hone my skills in simultaneous interpretation, which requires quick thinking and an ability to listen and interpret at the same time. I’m confident that I can provide accurate interpretations with minimal lag time between the source language and target language. In addition, I am comfortable using various interpreting technologies such as headsets and microphones when needed. Finally, I understand the importance of confidentiality and professionalism when providing simultaneous interpretation services.”

10. When performing consecutive interpretation, how do you stay focused on the speaker’s words when there are other distractions in the environment?

This question is an opportunity to show the interviewer that you have experience with consecutive interpretation and how you stay focused on what you’re doing. You can answer this question by describing a time when you had to perform consecutive interpretation in a distracting environment, such as a loud room or while standing for long periods of time.

Example: “When performing consecutive interpretation, I stay focused on the speaker’s words by utilizing my extensive experience in the field. As an expert interpreter, I understand that it is essential to remain attentive and concentrate on the message being conveyed. To do this, I use active listening techniques such as making eye contact with the speaker, repeating key phrases back to them, and taking notes when necessary. Furthermore, I am able to block out any distractions in the environment by focusing solely on the speaker’s words and their meaning. This allows me to accurately interpret the message without missing any important details. Finally, I take regular breaks throughout the session to ensure that I can maintain a high level of focus and accuracy.”

11. We want our interpreters to feel comfortable asking questions in order to better understand what the speakers are saying. Describe the process you would use to ask a question of the speakers and wait for a response.

This question is an opportunity to show your communication skills and ability to work with others. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe a specific situation in which you asked a question of the speakers and waited for their response.

Example: “When I am interpreting, I always strive to ensure that the message is accurately conveyed. To do this, I understand the importance of asking questions when needed. My process for asking a question begins with listening carefully and taking notes on what has been said so far. This allows me to better comprehend the context of the conversation.

Once I have identified an area where clarification would be beneficial, I will ask a concise, direct question in the same language as the speakers. Depending on the situation, I may also provide a brief explanation of why the question needs to be asked. After posing the question, I will wait patiently for a response before continuing my interpretation.

I believe that having the confidence to ask questions is essential in order to effectively interpret conversations. I take pride in my ability to remain professional while still engaging with the speakers in a respectful manner.”

12. Describe your process for taking notes while interpreting.

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your note-taking process and how you organize information. They want to know that you can take notes while interpreting, but they also want to see that you have a system for organizing those notes so you can refer back to them later. In your answer, explain the method you use to take notes during an interpretation and give examples of how you organized those notes in the past.

Example: “When I’m interpreting, taking notes is an important part of my process. Before I start interpreting, I make sure to have a notebook and pen handy so that I can take down any key points or phrases that I may need to refer back to later. During the interpretation session, I listen carefully to what is being said and jot down anything that could be helpful for me in understanding the context better. This includes words and phrases that are repeated often, as well as any unfamiliar terms or concepts that come up. After the session is over, I review my notes and use them to help me prepare for future interpretations. Taking notes also helps me remember details from previous sessions, which allows me to provide more accurate interpretations in the future.”

13. What makes you an excellent interpreter?

This question is an opportunity to show the interviewer your skills and abilities as an interpreter. Use examples from your experience that highlight your ability to interpret accurately, quickly and with confidence.

Example: “I believe that my extensive experience and qualifications make me an excellent interpreter. I have been working as a professional interpreter for over 10 years, providing interpretation services in both the public and private sectors. During this time, I have developed strong communication skills and cultural awareness which are essential to successful interpreting.

Furthermore, I am fluent in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, and German. This allows me to provide accurate interpretations between different language pairs with ease. In addition, I have completed several courses related to interpreting, such as medical interpreting, legal interpreting, and conference interpreting. These courses have given me the necessary knowledge and understanding of the various techniques used in interpreting.”

14. Which languages do you speak and interpret between?

This question is a great way for employers to learn more about your language skills. They want to know which languages you speak and interpret between, as well as how long you’ve been doing it. If you’re applying for an interpreter position at a hospital, for example, they may ask if you can translate between English and Spanish or other common languages in the area.

Example: “I am an experienced Interpreter, and I speak and interpret between several languages. My primary language is English, which I have been speaking fluently since childhood. In addition to English, I also speak Spanish, French, German, Italian, and Portuguese. I have experience interpreting in all of these languages for a variety of settings, including medical, legal, and educational contexts.

I am comfortable working with both written and spoken translations, as well as providing simultaneous interpretation services. I understand the importance of accuracy when it comes to translation work, so I always take extra care to ensure that my interpretations are accurate and precise. I also strive to provide clear and concise translations that convey the intended meaning accurately.”

15. What do you think is the most important aspect of being an effective interpreter?

This question is an opportunity to show your knowledge of the role and how you can be successful. You should discuss what you think is most important about being an interpreter, but also include a specific example that shows why this skill is so important.

Example: “I believe the most important aspect of being an effective interpreter is having excellent communication skills. Being able to accurately interpret spoken language and written text from one language to another requires a high level of fluency in both languages, as well as strong listening and comprehension abilities. It also involves being able to effectively communicate with people from different cultures and backgrounds. In addition, I think it’s important for interpreters to have a good understanding of the subject matter they are interpreting so that they can provide accurate translations. Finally, having excellent problem-solving skills is essential for any interpreter because there may be times when they need to come up with creative solutions to challenging situations.”

16. How often do you practice interpreting between different languages?

Interviewers may ask this question to see how often you practice interpreting and whether you have a passion for the job. They want to know that you are committed to your career as an interpreter, so they might look for someone who practices regularly or has experience working with interpreters who do. When answering this question, consider mentioning any specific situations in which you practiced interpreting between languages.

Example: “I practice interpreting between different languages on a daily basis. I believe that it is important to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in language interpretation, so I make sure to read relevant articles and watch videos related to the subject. I also attend workshops and seminars whenever possible to further my knowledge of the field. Finally, I take part in online forums and discussion groups to discuss best practices and share ideas with other interpreters. This helps me to stay sharp and current in my skillset.”

17. There is a difference in body language between the two cultures you are interpreting between. How would you address this in your interpretation?

This question is a great way to test your cultural awareness and ability to adapt. It also shows the interviewer how you would handle this situation in a professional manner.

Example: “I understand that body language can be a difficult thing to interpret between two different cultures. As an interpreter, I believe it is important to be aware of the differences in body language and how they may affect interpretation. To address this, I would take the time to research both cultures and their respective body languages before beginning any work as an interpreter. This way, I can ensure that my interpretations are accurate and respectful of both cultures. Furthermore, I would also pay close attention to the body language of those I am interpreting for during each session. By doing so, I can better understand the nuances of each culture and provide more accurate interpretations.”

18. What techniques do you use to ensure accuracy in your interpretation?

Interviewers may ask this question to assess your attention to detail and ensure that you are able to interpret accurately. To answer, think about the methods you use to make sure you’re interpreting correctly and provide examples of when you used them successfully in the past.

Example: “I understand the importance of accuracy in interpretation, and I take a number of steps to ensure that my work is as precise as possible. First, I make sure to research any unfamiliar terms or concepts before beginning an assignment. This allows me to have a better understanding of the subject matter so that I can interpret it accurately. Second, I always double-check my work for errors once I’m finished with an assignment. I also use audio recordings to confirm that my interpretations are accurate. Finally, I am open to feedback from clients and colleagues, which helps me refine my skills and improve my accuracy over time. These techniques help me provide the most accurate interpretation possible.”

19. Are there any special strategies you have for interpreting between two languages that are not related?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to assess your ability to interpret between languages that are not related. This can be an important skill, especially if you’re applying for a position with a company that works with clients from different countries. In your answer, try to highlight any specific strategies or techniques you use when interpreting between two languages that aren’t related.

Example: “Yes, I have a few strategies that I use when interpreting between two languages that are not related. First, I make sure to research both languages and cultures thoroughly so that I can better understand the nuances of each language. This helps me to accurately convey the meaning of words and phrases from one language to another. Secondly, I focus on understanding the context of conversations in order to provide an accurate interpretation. Finally, I practice active listening skills to ensure that I am paying attention to all aspects of the conversation and providing an accurate interpretation. With these strategies, I am confident that I can provide effective interpretations between any two languages.”

20. Describe a time when you had to interpret between two people who were speaking different dialects of the same language.

This question can help the interviewer understand how you adapt to different dialects and accents. Use your answer to highlight your ability to interpret between two people who speak in different dialects of the same language, as well as your communication skills.

Example: “I recently had the opportunity to interpret between two people who were speaking different dialects of the same language. This was a challenging situation because I had to be able to understand both dialects and accurately convey the message from one person to the other. To prepare for this task, I reviewed the grammar and vocabulary of each dialect so that I could better understand their conversations.

During the interpretation process, I paid close attention to the nuances of each dialect and made sure to use the correct words and phrases in order to ensure an accurate translation. I also worked with the speakers to make sure they understood each other’s messages by asking questions and providing clarification when needed. In the end, my efforts paid off as both parties were able to communicate effectively and understand each other’s points of view.”

21. Have you ever encountered any ethical dilemmas while interpreting? How did you handle them?

An interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your ability to make ethical decisions while interpreting. This can be an important skill for interpreters, as they often have access to private conversations and information. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe a specific situation in which you encountered an ethical dilemma and how you handled it.

Example: “In my last position, I interpreted for a deaf patient who was seeking treatment for a mental illness. During the appointment, the doctor asked the patient if he had ever considered suicide. The patient responded that he had been thinking about committing suicide recently but didn’t know what to do. I informed the doctor of the situation and we decided together that I would continue to interpret the rest of the appointment but not relay any further questions or comments regarding suicide.”

Example: “Yes, I have encountered ethical dilemmas while interpreting. One example was when I was asked to interpret a conversation between two people who had different cultural backgrounds and spoke different languages. The conversation was about sensitive topics that could potentially be offensive to one of the parties. In this situation, I had to make sure that both parties were comfortable with the interpretation and that no information was left out or miscommunicated. To do this, I took my time to ensure accuracy in my interpretation and also made sure to explain any unfamiliar terms or concepts to both parties. This allowed for an open dialogue where each party felt heard and respected. Ultimately, I believe this approach helped to resolve the ethical dilemma and maintain a respectful atmosphere.”

22. Do you think it is important to be familiar with both cultures when interpreting between them?

This question can help the interviewer determine how much experience you have interpreting between cultures and whether you understand the importance of doing so. Use your answer to highlight any previous experiences working with different cultures and show that you know how important it is to be aware of both sides when translating for others.

Example: “Absolutely. I believe it is essential to be familiar with both cultures when interpreting between them in order to ensure accuracy and understanding. Being knowledgeable of the cultural nuances, customs, and language differences can help bridge any gaps that may exist. It also helps build trust and respect between the two parties involved.

I have a strong background in both English and Spanish, having grown up bilingual and bicultural. This has enabled me to develop an understanding of how different cultures interact and communicate. In addition, I have experience working as an interpreter for various organizations, which has allowed me to gain further insight into the importance of being able to interpret accurately between two languages and cultures.”

23. Describe how you would manage a situation where one of the parties was not cooperative or uncooperative during an interpretation session.

The interviewer may ask you this question to assess your interpersonal skills and ability to manage challenging situations. In your answer, demonstrate that you can remain calm under pressure and use effective communication techniques to resolve the situation.

Example: “When managing a situation where one of the parties is not cooperative or uncooperative during an interpretation session, I believe it’s important to remain professional and maintain a positive attitude. First, I would try to understand why the party is being uncooperative by asking questions in a respectful manner. If necessary, I could explain that cooperation is essential for effective communication and ask if there are any issues that need to be addressed.

If the party remains uncooperative, I would take a step back and allow them time to process their emotions before continuing with the interpretation session. During this time, I would make sure to provide support and reassurance so they feel comfortable expressing themselves. Finally, I would ensure that all parties involved have a clear understanding of what was discussed and agreed upon before ending the session.”

24. Explain what steps you take to ensure confidentiality when performing interpretations.

Confidentiality is a major concern for many organizations that hire interpreters. Employers want to ensure you understand the importance of keeping information private and confidential when working with their organization. Use this question as an opportunity to show your dedication to confidentiality by explaining how you would handle this situation if it arose in your previous work experience.

Example: “I take confidentiality very seriously when performing interpretations. First, I make sure to sign a non-disclosure agreement with the client before beginning any work. This ensures that all information discussed during an interpretation session is kept confidential and not shared with anyone outside of the interpreter-client relationship.

In addition, I always ensure that my workspace is secure and private. During an interpretation session, I never allow any other people in the room or discuss the content of the interpretation with anyone else. Finally, I always keep detailed records of each interpretation session, including notes on what was discussed and any potential issues that may arise. These records are securely stored and only accessed by me for reference purposes.”

25. How do you remain impartial and unbiased when interpreting?

An interviewer may ask this question to assess your ability to remain impartial and unbiased when interpreting. This is important because it can help you avoid any misunderstandings or miscommunications that could occur if you were biased in any way. In your answer, try to explain how you stay impartial and unbiased while still being able to convey the speaker’s message accurately.

Example: “I understand the importance of remaining impartial and unbiased when interpreting, as it is essential for providing accurate interpretations. To ensure I remain neutral, I always strive to maintain an objective perspective during my interpretation sessions. This means that I do not allow any personal biases or opinions to influence my work.

Additionally, I make sure to research all relevant information prior to each session so that I can better understand the context of the conversation. By having a comprehensive understanding of the topic at hand, I am able to interpret accurately without letting my own views interfere with the process. Finally, I always take time to listen carefully to both parties involved in order to ensure that I provide a fair and balanced interpretation.”