In the fictional universe of Star Trek, there exists a race of entrepreneurs known for earning great profit! They are known as the Ferengi. Their ethics are questionable and by no means trustworthy. Their prime and only goal in life is to become rich. As a race, they are quite successful reaching it. They religiously […]
10 Ferengi Rules of Acquisition for Language Freelancers Read More »
This question was recently asked in preparation of the ATA board meeting on February 5-8, “Do you have feedback for the ATA board?” The following is my response.
My Questions for the ATA Board Read More »
I would like to recognize the hard-working board members of the American Translators Association (“ATA”). Theirs is a thankless job. As volunteers, they contribute valuable time and effort to serve in this position. The position, however, is very important, as it affects the lives of every person in the language profession.
Issues Pertinent to Electing New ATA Board Members Read More »
Those were the words uttered to me by a representative of one of the largest national interpretation agencies about five years ago. What led to those words, and did they become reality? A determination of who I am and what I shall become.
“You will come running back to us, you’ll see!” Read More »
In the workers’ compensation industry, large insurance companies tend to have a policy to hire only national interpreting agencies. These agencies typically contract out to the cheapest unqualified bilingual labor they can find. The agencies do this so that they can reduce expenses and increase profit. The result is an industry rife with untrained, unskilled
Seeking Answers to my Workers’ Comp Insurance Company Frustrations Read More »
I have been told by physical therapists that they prefer our services much better than the present interpreter with whom they are forced to work. Why do they prefer us? Because our interpreters are always next to the patient, attentive, and ready to interpret. They tell me that the other interpreters tend to sit in
Why don’t more professionals demand quality interpreters? Read More »
I once heard an interpreter declare that associations are for fancy car types. Ouch, I didn’t think my Ford was fancy. However, with full disclosure that 95% of the below is on CATI‘s website, here are the top ten reasons to become a member. 1. Provider Database: CATI will list you on its website directory.
Top Ten Reasons to Join the Carolina Association of Translators & Interpreters Read More »
This entry will conclude my three-part series on effective relations between the case manager and the interpreter. Role Boundaries: “The interpreter maintains the boundaries of the professional role, refraining from personal involvement.” We discussed this a little, but another issue merits consideration. Some case managers will ask the interpreter to relay messages if the patient
How Case Managers Can Work with Interpreters – Part III Read More »
In Part II of case managers and interpreters working together, I highlight a few misunderstood points. Accuracy: The principle is that “Interpreters strive to render the message accurately, conveying the content and spirit of the original message, taking into consideration the cultural context.” Some case managers are annoyed and confused when I repeat the same
How Case Managers Can Work with Interpreters – Part II Read More »
There you are, sitting in a doctor’s office with a patient and his interpreter. Since you don’t speak the LEP patient’s language, how can you ensure that the interpreter is doing his job properly? On some level, you might not be able to tell for sure, but there are markers that will give you clues.
8 Indicators that Reveal if an Interpreter is Professional Read More »
Archway also bridges the gap in communication by offering a wide variety of interpreting and translation services.
