Language is constantly changing and usage varies over time and over distance, so we can never relax our linguistic vigilance.

VIII. THE SPECIALIST VS THE GENERALIST
Article 3 of the AIIC Code of Professional Conduct states:

“Members of the Association shall not accept engagements for which they are not qualified.”

It is difficult to apply this provision scrupulously because it is not always possible to establish in advance the extent of the technical nature of the meeting. A medical conference may turn out to be about computerising statistics and a computer meeting may be about almost anything.

Our fees, prestige and reputation are based on our ability rapidly to master different forms of technical discourse and to acquire an adequate understanding of complex processes.

If you have training or experience in a particular field, let colleagues know; however, you are unlikely to be able ton confine yourself to that subject alone, as you may find there is not enough work.

Another reason why interpreters need to be generalists rather that specialists, is that organisers increasingly seek to recruit locally because the high cost of travel and per diems.

IX. KEEP IMPROVING
If you are a beginner, pay attention to how experienced colleagues tackle a particular difficulty or subject, especially those with your languages. Observe what they do, note their strengths and even their weaknesses. Decide what is worth emulating and what should be avoided.

Study the documents you have managed to get hold of. Read up the technical or professional procedures to be discussed and the theories underlying the subjects covered by the papers. Not only will this greatly improve your understanding of what is being said but will help you to cope with fast or difficult speakers and give you the feeling that you are on top of subject.

Nobody can be expected to own every dictionary or glossary published but they are tools of our trade and money invested in the latest versions of specialised dictionaries is a sound investment. Ask more experienced colleagues for advice on what to buy and be ready to let the others make use of your reference books.

Cassette recorders are also very useful. Use one (twin track so that you can compare your interpreted version to the original) to record yourself in the booth and then analyse it wi

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