Becoming an interpreter is different depending on where someone wishes to work as an interpreter. For small freelance jobs, you may not need any certification or special training at all. More prestigious jobs may require a degree or certification of some kind. In all cases, fluency in all languages used during translation is absolutely essential. As such, to become an interpreter you should first establish fluency in at least two languages.
Most of the time, the most important step for a person who wishes to become an interpreter is excellence in two languages. Often, a person uses his or her first or native language and then learns a second language, or the interpreter may have been brought up bilingually. Fluency is very difficult to obtain and includes aspects of a language like idioms, jokes, and cultural references. When a person wishes to become an interpreter in a specific field, such as law or medicine, even more linguistic expertise is required.
Once you have become fluent in both languages, the next step in order to become an interpreter is to obtain practice. It may help to have a degree in a related field, but interpretation is a skill, and knowing two languages is not often sufficient. Practice allows a person to fluidly hear and speak and also to improve the speed and accuracy of translation.
Sometimes, a certificate or degree in interpretation can be helpful when trying to become an interpreter. Reputable schools are often listed through associations of interpreters, and programs may be offered through local schools. Certification is not universal, so it is important to research what types of certification programs are considered acceptable for which jobs.
Many groups that hire interpreters have screening processes. Passing these processes is often the most important step when attempting to find work as an interpreter. It is sometimes possible to study for a screening exam, but more often practice and experience are more useful.
One way to become an interpreter at a prestigious venue is to start with a less prestigious job and work up. It is often possible to work in a freelance capacity once in a while and then use those contacts and recommendations to find more steady work. Establishing an impressive interpretation resume and, if possible, references who will recommend your services to others can lead to very lucrative employment opportunities. Even so, the most important aspect of becoming an interpreter is still maintaining fluency and keeping your language skills up to date.
