Interpreting for non-interpreters

It takes time to realize the obvious. The majority of my students are not, and won't be interpreters. They come to the course because it is highlighted both as an introduction to consecutive/liaison interpretation, and also as an unconventional means to progress with their language study. "Using interpreters training method to progress in language learning" has been a catch phrase here for several years to sell books for non-interpreters looking for different approaches to reach the skies. Shadowing is a term rather commonly used in Japan in language learning. In other countries I know about, the word in its interpreting inception is virtually unknown outside interpreting schools.

Many of my students are requested from time to time to give a hand in interpreting because the boss is French and the level of Japanese too low for the too high requirements in standards of social and business interactions here. Most of the students feel awkward and even frightened at delivering under the scrutiny of colleagues they work with on a daily basis. Colleagues are quick to judge on language competences, and shame and scorn at who knows better than thee can reach high level here.

The failing interpreter - should it be stressed that it does happen - has the advantage to leave the place once the job is performed, and repeater patrons are in my experience an exception to the rule of a one shot assignment. In this sense, non-professionals being requested to act as defacto interpreters on the job are under more difficult scrutiny and stress than freelancers. And nobody nor any book I am aware of is taking care of them. Nor any school by the way. Interpretation schools train interpreters and not "just curious about interpreting who wants to give it a shot".

I believe they are missing a slot of juicy business here in Japan where the romance of interpretation is so strong. Polluted by TV and marketing - synonymous - the belief is strong "as seen on TV" that interpreters must be rubbing elbows with the powerful and famous, that is except for the majority who work with anonymous laymen (and women). The problem would-not-be interpreters are facing is the high cost of schools and the steep level required, what with, as a rule it seems, the sense of superiority of teachers who easily despise students for not being as perfect as they are.

I have an argument here with most professional interpreters who are as more competent as they are arrogant and vicious about others, professionals or beginners as well. I have had enough feedback of this trait over the years to believe that this is no anecdotal feature.

Repackaging interpretation for non-interpreters needing to professionally deal with situations where interpretation is required is an enticing project. Encouraging students is a requisite for the empathic trainer.