Simultaneous interpreting is the near real-time transfer of spoken communication from one language into another – during conferences, congresses, panel discussions, presentations, meetings and other multilingual events.
Interpreters begin speaking while the speaker is still talking, allowing communication to continue without lengthy interruptions. This enables multilingual events to proceed smoothly and naturally.
Typical Applications of Simultaneous Interpreting
- International conferences, congresses and scientific meetings
- Business meetings and annual general meetings
- Political events and press conferences
- Hybrid events
- Webinars and live streams
- Multilingual events of any size
Professional simultaneous interpreters work from ISO 4043-compliant, soundproof interpreting booths, supported by professional conference interpreting technology. Participants simply select their preferred language using wireless receivers and headphones, allowing them to follow the event in real time.
Even at multilingual conferences with several working languages, all participants can listen to presentations, panel discussions and Q&A sessions simultaneously in their own language.
Depending on the requirements of your event, we provide not only carefully selected conference interpreters but, if required, the complete conference interpreting setup — from interpreting booths, receivers and headsets to microphones, audio systems and on-site technical support.
Why Simultaneous Interpreters Work in Teams
For quality reasons, professional simultaneous interpreters always work in pairs for each language combination during longer assignments. They take turns at regular intervals and support one another with specialist terminology, figures, names and other demanding details. This team approach is essential to maintaining consistently high interpreting quality throughout the event.
Careful Planning Makes the Difference
Successful simultaneous interpreting depends not only on the expertise of the interpreters but also on careful preparation and technical planning.
This includes selecting the optimal position for the interpreting booths, ensuring a clear view of the speakers and presentation materials, and coordinating all technical aspects well in advance of the event.
When Interpreting Becomes Invisible
The best simultaneous interpreting often goes unnoticed.
People remember the ideas, the discussions and the decisions.
Not the interpreting.
Planning a Multilingual Event?
Whether you’re planning an international conference, a scientific congress, a board meeting or a hybrid event, we’ll support you from the earliest planning stages through to the successful delivery of your event.
From carefully selected conference interpreting teams and professional conference technology to dedicated project management, we provide everything you need for seamless multilingual communication.