Interpreting services

Simultaneous, consecutive and chuchotage interpreting services

The highly experienced interpreters at SMG Languages provide UNI 10574-certified interpreting services and spoken-language support to distinguished clients including the OECD, the European Commission and the Spanish Ministry of Justice.

SMG has an experienced team of interpreters specialising in all forms of interpreting including simultaneous interpreting, consecutive interpreting, chuchotage, liaison interpreting, and other modes.

What are the characteristics of our interpreters?

• Quality of linguistic expertise and service: SMG employs interpreters whose professional skills are rated 10/10 or 8/10. These ratings attest to advanced linguistic expertise in syntax, terminology and comprehension; advanced verbal and non-verbal communication skills, including public speaking; strong diction and pronunciation; and a positive approach to interpersonal interaction, also reflected in appropriate attire and general appearance.
• Other psychological and aptitude-related qualities: SMG employs interpreters who possess general and local cultural knowledge, research skills, technological skills and the ability to follow instructions, and who demonstrate an adequate level of honesty, awareness and willingness to develop professionally. These qualities are evaluated with high scores of 10/10 or 8/10.
• Training: a degree/diploma in languages, translation or interpreting.
• Experience: several years’ experience in interpreting in the client’s subject area.

Other essential requirements

• Local presence: SMG selects local interpreters to ensure timely service delivery. SMG’s offices serve as reference points for its linguistic staff, where they receive training and instructions from Project Managers and can wait and prepare for assignments.
• Contracts and compliance with administrative requirements: SMG ensures interpreter availability through employment contracts or guaranteed stand-by agreements. SMG employs staff in compliance with the labour, social security, accident-prevention and confidentiality regulations in force in the country in which they are contracted. In addition, all foreign staff hold the residence permits and authorisations required by law.
• Sufficient staff: SMG has a sufficient number of specialised interpreters available to provide interpreting services in the language combinations requested, manage peak workloads and provide replacements with equivalent expertise in cases of sick leave or holidays and ensure shift coverage.
• Equipment: SMG selects interpreters who have their own transport, where possible, and are equipped with mobile devices and PCs to maintain continuous contact with Project Managers.
• Gender balance: SMG applies a non-discrimination policy in the employment of staff.

General process for managing our interpreting services

The main stages of our interpreting services are outlined below:

Request acquisition

First, the client sends the Project Manager (PM) an order or a request for a quote via the agreed channel (SMGDesk platform, e-mail, etc.). The PM communicates with the client, including by telephone, and uploads email requests/orders to SMGDesk so the client can follow the progress of the service online.

Service assessment

The PM then assesses the interpreting service request as follows:

• assesses the linguistic and logistical requirements of the service;
• organises the work by assigning the interpreters, the necessary terminological resources and support staff to ensure efficient management of travel and working hours;
• contacts the client with any queries or suggestions.

Quote

A quotation setting out the costs and timing of the service can be sent via SMGDesk or email for the client’s evaluation before the order is placed.

Execution of the service

The PM coordinates the execution of the interpreting service and remains available to support both the client and the interpreters.

Quality control

After the interpreting service, the PM obtains feedback from the client on their satisfaction with the service provided.

Finally, SMG’s Director of Project Management monitors quality based on service-check results, client feedback, key performance indicators and internal audit results. This enables the Director of Project Management to take corrective action in response to any non-conformities and to prepare the Quality Improvement Plans. Clients can view the results and reports of these activities and can discuss any issues with the PM and Director of Project Management at any time by telephone, email and during periodic coordination meetings.