If you’re passionate about the Spanish language, are bilingual, and like working with people, you can turn that passion into a purpose by becoming a Spanish interpreter. Right now, there’s a growing demand for Spanish interpreters as globalization continues to bring worlds (and languages) together. If you’ve ever dreamed of pursuing a career where you can put your Spanish language skills to good use, interpreting might be the ideal fit for you.

Read on to learn more about what it takes to become a certified Spanish interpreter and how this career helps bridge the language barrier!

What is a Spanish Interpreter?

Spanish interpreters translate conversations where Spanish and another language are spoken by two or more people that do not speak the same language. Interpreters facilitate meaningful and important conversations between people to ensure that groups of people can understand each other, even if they are not bilingual.

What Do Spanish Interpreters Do?

Interpretation revolves around translating spoken language, unlike translation which deals with written language. That being said, there are quite a few functions that interpreters can fill. These include:

Simultaneous Interpreting

In this method of interpreting, the interpreter translates conversations in real-time as the conversation is happening.

Consecutive Interpreting

Consecutive interpretation allows the interpreter to listen to what is being said and then translate the context of the conversation.

Both simultaneous and consecutive interpretation can be facilitated in person, via Virtual Remote Interpreting (VRI) technology, or through phone interpreting services. Regardless of how the interpretation is facilitated, its main function is to bridge the language barrier and facilitate conversations between people that would otherwise not be able to communicate with each other.

What is a Spanish Interpreter?

Spanish interpreters translate conversations where Spanish and another language are spoken by two or more people that do not speak the same language. Interpreters facilitate meaningful and important conversations between people to ensure that groups of people can understand each other, even if they are not bilingual.

What Do Spanish Interpreters Do?

Interpretation revolves around translating spoken language, unlike translation which deals with written language. That being said, there are quite a few functions that interpreters can fill. These include:

Simultaneous Interpreting

In this method of interpreting, the interpreter translates conversations in real-time as the conversation is happening.

Consecutive Interpreting

Consecutive interpretation allows the interpreter to listen to what is being said and then translate the context of the conversation.

Both simultaneous and consecutive interpretation can be facilitated in person, via Virtual Remote Interpreting (VRI) technology, or through phone interpreting services. Regardless of how the interpretation is facilitated, its main function is to bridge the language barrier and facilitate conversations between people that would otherwise not be able to communicate with each other.

What Are the Steps for Becoming a Spanish Interpreter?

Step 1 – Learn the Spanish Language

This one seems like a no-brainer, but you must be fluent in Spanish if you want to become a Spanish interpreter. You also need to be fluent in at least one other language aside from having great Spanish language skills. As a Spanish interpreter, you’ll need to demonstrate your mastery in both of the languages you work with. You also need a broad vocabulary and must be culturally competent to ensure you understand the nuances of both languages.

On that concern, you can develop your cultural competences through a Spanish immersion program abroad. The sooner the better. It is the best way to boost your interpersonal and communication skills. Both essential for a Spanish interpreter.

Step 2 – Consider Earning a Degree

While a degree in the Spanish language isn’t always a prerequisite to becoming an interpreter, a degree can help you secure a more formal (and higher-paying) interpreting job. A degree isn’t only beneficial in the sense that it can help you land a better job. It’s also a great way to practice and further develop your linguistic skills to ensure you’re as professionally qualified as possible for the role.

Step 3 – Obtain Spanish Interpreter Certification

A Spanish Interpreter Certification program is the best way to invest in your career and ensure you’ll work in a more professional setting. There are also various options for getting a Spanish interpreter certification. Medical interpreters, for example, must get certified by the National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters. Although there’s no blanket Spanish interpreter certification for all interpreters, a bachelor’s degree in Spanish and formal training might be a prerequisite if you do need to get certified for a specific interpreting role.

Step 4 – Gain Relevant Experience

If you’re an aspiring Spanish interpreter, it might be beneficial to gain experience in the field to help build your professional resume. There are various opportunities you can pursue to help you develop your language capabilities. These include internships and study abroad programs that promote the skills of Spanish interpreters.

How Quickly Can I Become a Spanish Interpreter?

This all depends on whether or not you have native-level proficiency in Spanish and at least one other language. Spanish interpreters with excellent listening skills and a passion for languages find that the process of getting certified as an interpreter doesn’t take too long. But there is no set time for how long this takes.

Where Can I Work as a Spanish Interpreter?

There are various career avenues that you can pursue as a Spanish interpreter. Some of these include:

Medical Interpreting

Medical interpreters work in hospitals and healthcare facilities where they assist Spanish-speaking patients that are being treated by English-speaking healthcare professionals. These interpreters are essential when it comes to ensuring that limited English proficient (LEP) patients get the care they need and that they understand their treatments.

Legal Interpreting

Legal interpreters assist Spanish-speaking people that need language assistance in legal situations. These interpreters generally work in courtrooms and within law firms to help facilitate communication and ensure that Spanish natives can fairly represent themselves.

Tourism Interpreting

Interpreters that work within the travel and tourism industry are often employed by airlines and major tourist attractions that are frequently visited by individuals that are native Spanish speakers. The role of these interpreters is to assist Spanish speakers with any inquiries they might have regarding tourism-specific topics.

What Skills Will I Need in My Interpreting Career?

Here is a look at the skills that you’ll frequently need throughout your career as a Spanish Interpreter:

Communication Skills

Any interpreter needs strong communication skills to do their job effectively. This can include having a broad knowledge of specific terminology, using concise words, and always upholding a friendly demeanor and tone of voice while interpreting.

Listening Skills

It’s important to actively listen when interpreting because it ensures you fully understand the conversation and are able to translate it effectively. Your active listening skills also build trust with clients and allow them to share sensitive information with you more easily.

Cultural Competence

Cultural competence assists interpreters with noticing and understanding non-verbal cues that form part of communication in certain cultures. These cues help interpreters translate the conversation more efficiently for all parties involved.

About the Author:

Sean Patrick Hopwood is a language polyglot and the CEO of Day Interpreting, a phone interpreter services company.