The demand for video interpreting services has skyrocketed because of the enforced social distancing of the COVID-19 pandemic. But just because circumstantial change is changing the way we do business, it shouldn’t see face-to-face interpreting being disregarded altogether.
At the end of the day, face-to-face interpreting is still one of the most effective interpreting options in many settings. Here’s a look at why it’s still the foundation of interpretation services!
The Benefits of Face-to-Face Interpreting
Best Method for Sensitive Communication
Even in the midst of a pandemic, personal connection is vital. And face-to-face interpreting can be the best way to deliver sensitive information like medical diagnosis or when working with children.
Many patients in healthcare settings, especially the older generation, might not be comfortable or confident using VRO services, which is why safe in-person interpreting still needs to be an option when it’s necessary.
There’s the Body Language Advantage
In-person interpreting allows physical nuances like body language to be seen at the moment along with what’s being said. And this can help convey the tone, humor, and other subtleties of the conversation that might be lost in translation. Especially if there’s also a cultural barrier at play.
Instant Understanding
Unlike conference interpreting, there’s no delay with face-to-face interpretation services. Delays are also possible when using video software for interpreting. And a lack of delay can help guarantee greater accuracy and comprehension, essentially enabling more effective communication.
Caters to Hard-of-Hearing and Deaf Individuals
The real-time advantage of in-person interpreting makes it the best option when interpreting for individuals that are deaf or hearing impaired. Sign language interpreters that are present whenever conferences take place are there to ensure that daily, up-to-date, and essential information is delivered to everyone at the same time.
Choosing an Interpreting Style in an Era of Social Distancing
Throughout 2020 and 2021, virtual remote interpreting has been the safer option for interpreting. And it has also been a very cost-effective language service for millions. But as social interaction picks up again, there’s an option for in-person interpreting again. Naturally it includes the wearing of face masks with clear plastic inserts, so the mouth is still visible.
If you need the quickest interpreting option, telephone interpreting can be effective. These interpreting services work especially well in emergency situations. But video will always be a greater visual option since it facilitates body language too.
For this reason, VRI services have been an effective solution for instances like minor medical appointments and with healthcare patients that cannot be exposed to the risk associated with face-to-face consultations.
Wrapping Up
The “old and traditional” method of interpreting face-to-face also incurred travel and accommodation costs. And that is something that man businesses will not want to go back to. Virtual interpreting could therefore become the new normal in a post-COVID world.
At Day Interpreting, we’ve been providing expert interpreting services for almost two decades. And in that time, we’ve learned all about what organizations need to communicate with their audiences with ease and at scale.
To learn more about our full range of innovative interpreting solutions, get in touch with us right now. We’re here to help you transcend the language barrier. And even though the pandemic might still throw a challenge or two at us along the way, our industry-leading services will always rise above and beyond the challenge!
Seldean is a multi-skilled content wizard that dedicates herself to writing content that goes beyond merely sparking interest in the audience.
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