Interpreting services are in high demand as the world becomes more globally connected. With video conferencing and remote work on the rise, online interpreting is growing as a career option. But is it realistic to be a full-time online interpreter? Let’s look at the key requirements and challenges.
What are the basic requirements to be an online interpreter?
Here are the core skills and qualifications you need to get started as an online interpreter:
- Fluency in at least two languages – you must have native or near-native proficiency in your working languages.
- Interpreting training – formal training, a degree or certification provides vital skills in interpretation techniques, ethics, terminology, etc.
- Specialist knowledge – interpreters often specialize in certain fields like legal, healthcare, or business.
- Communication and interpersonal skills – you’ll work closely with clients and colleagues.
- Technical skills – ability to use remote interpretation tools and platforms.
Many aspiring online interpreters already have language skills and professional experience but need to gain qualifications and technical abilities to shift into remote work.
What types of online interpreting can I do?
Some different types of online interpreting include:
- Video remote interpreting (VRI) – real-time video interpretation for conferences, meetings, healthcare appointments, legal proceedings, etc. This is the most common type of online interpreting.
- Telephone interpreting – interpretation over the phone for simpler discussions.
- Translation of pre-recorded content – translating videos, podcasts, transcriptions. Often asynchronous work.
VRI makes up the bulk of demand, though there are some work opportunities in the other types of online interpreting as well.
What are the advantages of being an online interpreter?
There are many potential upsides to online interpreting compared to in-person work:
- More flexibility – you can often set your own hours and accept jobs based on availability.
- Wider range of opportunities – not restricted to your local area.
- Easier to specialize – can market yourself to a niche.
- Potential for higher earnings – save time/costs of transportation to appointments.
- Comfort – get to work from a home office.
- More independent – interface directly with clients online.
By leveraging technology, online interpreters open up more flexible and profitable ways to provide their services.
What are the challenges of online interpreting?
However, this career path also comes with some inherent challenges:
- Irregular workflow – hard to predict busy periods versus slow times.
- Less human interaction – can feel isolated and lacks in-person connections.
- Technological issues – internet outages disrupt work, platforms can be unreliable.
- Stiff competition – low barrier to entry draws many interpreters to work online.
- Client acquisition – independent interpreters must market and find their own clients.
- Self-motivation – success rests more heavily on your own initiative when working remotely.
The flexibility of online interpreting also requires greater discipline, self-promotion, and comfort with technology.
What technical skills are required?
To deliver seamless remote interpreting services, you need:
- Stable internet connection – high-speed broadband internet is essential.
- Computer or laptop – a dependable, up-to-date computer capable of running interpreting platforms and software.
- Headset and microphone – provides quality audio on video calls and telephone interpreting.
- Webcam – allows face-to-face video connection with clients.
- Interpreting platforms – master popular platforms like Interprefy, Kudo, VoiceBoxer, etc.
- CAT tools – make use of productivity-boosting tools like SDL Trados or memoQ.
- Videoconferencing software – expert use of tools like Zoom, Skype, WebEx.
Staying on top of technical skills and internet capabilities is a must to deliver smooth remote services and keep clients happy.
How can I get training and qualifications?
Some routes to get properly trained as an online interpreter include:
- A college degree in Interpreting – provides a comprehensive foundation in interpreting skills and techniques.
- Online interpreter training course – faster and more affordable, focuses specifically on remote interpreting.
- Certification from a professional organization – certifications like the CMIIC demonstrate your capabilities.
- Mentorship – learn directly from an experienced online interpreter as an assistant or mentee.
- Practice – hone your skills by volunteering or offering pro bono interpreting services.
A combination of formal education, targeted training, certification, and hands-on practice is ideal to become fully qualified as an online interpreter.
Degrees and Programs
Some examples of relevant college degrees include:
- BA in Interpreting and Translation
- MA in Interpreting and Translation
- BA in Languages or Linguistics with interpreting minors/electives
- Certificate programs in Medical, Legal, or Business Interpreting
Look for programs that provide technology training tailored to remote interpreting. University degrees lay a robust foundation but may not be accessible or practical for all aspiring online interpreters.
Online Courses and Certifications
For a more targeted and expedient education, online interpreter courses and certifications to consider include:
- CMIIC – The Certification Commission for Healthcare Interpreters offers various remote interpreting certifications.
- IMIA – International Medical Interpreters Association training and certificate program.
- ATA – The American Translators Association has an online training course for distance interpreting.
- Udemy – This platform offers affordable online interpreter courses for different specialties.
Carefully compare course content, costs, trainers’ qualifications, certification exams, and recognition in the field to choose respected training options.
How can I find clients and get work?
As an independent online interpreter, you’ll need to be proactive to source clients. Strategies include:
- Building an online portfolio showcasing your skills and experience.
- Creating profiles on interpreter job boards and freelancing sites.
- Asking existing professional contacts for referrals.
- Reaching out to hospitals, law firms, universities, and other organizations that require interpreters.
- Promoting your services through social media outreach and targeted ads.
- Establishing relationships with translation companies to be placed on assignments.
Persistence and self-promotion are key – cast a wide net and take advantage of online networks to find the clients most in need of your language services.
What is the earning potential?
Online interpreters typically earn between $20-$60 per hour depending on factors like:
- Language pair – rarer language combinations often pay more.
- Specialization – medical, legal, and conference interpreters are in high demand.
- Experience level – interpreters with substantial expertise can charge higher rates.
- Certifications held – certified interpreters justify higher fees.
- Reputation and marketing – well-known interpreters get more referrals.
- Client type – large institutions pay more than individuals.
By specializing in lucrative fields and languages, outstanding interpreters can potentially earn $100,000 or more per year through online work alone.
Earnings Comparison by Specialization
Type of Interpreting | Average Hourly Rate |
---|---|
Medical Interpreting | $30-$50 per hour |
Legal Interpreting | $50-$80 per hour |
Conference Interpreting | $60-$100 per hour |
Medical and legal interpreters earn steady rates while conference interpreters are rewarded for their experience with top-tier pay.
Conclusion
Online interpreting offers significant advantages for linguists looking for flexible, location-independent work. However, it also requires specialized skills, self-motivation, and an entrepreneurial attitude. With proper training, qualifications, marketing, and determination, it’s certainly realistic for many interpreters to transition to successful remote careers. The technical barriers to entry are lowering while demand continues rising across multiple industries. Overall, the future looks bright for online interpretation as a fulfilling and sustainable career choice.