If you want any special help from your boothmate(s), ask for it. If you resent help, say so. Unwanted help can be as much of a problem as assistance that is not forthcoming when required.

If you are an experienced interpreter, do not keep your `know-how` to yourself. Do not forget that not only are interpreters judged as a team but also that we were all beginners once. Similarly, if a colleague doesn’t know something, don’t spread it around, thereby creating a source of tension.

If you feel nervous, try not to spread the feeling. If you cannot conceal it, confide in your colleagues who can usually be of assistance in overcoming such difficulties.

As a general rule, respect your colleagues’ wishes (even unspoken) regarding socialising in the booth. Not every interpreter is able to deal simultaneously with a speech from the floor and your life story. If you are a staff interpreter working with a freelancer, or vice versa, try to break down the prejudice which the two groups sometimes feel towards one another. Show that you are eager to establish a good working relationship.

Even if you think you are one of the best known interpreters in the profession, introduce yourself to colleagues you have not met before. Experienced interpreters should make every effort to put newcomers at their ease and beginners should concentrate on doing a sound job rather impressing or pleasing their boothmate(s).

Never hand over copies of documents to enquiring journalists or visitors. You have a duty of confidentiality. Always refer such requests to the conference organisers.

Do not smoke in the booth without your colleagues’ consent. If you must smoke, do so outside the booth. Similarly, use perfume or aftershave sparingly. Too heady a scent can be as intrusive as tobacco smoke. It is not advisable to knit or manicure one’s nails in the booth, nor to be seen to be reading a newspaper in full view of the delegates or to be snatching a late breakfast. Not only is such behaviour likely to disturb your colleague

上一页  [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8] [9] [10]  ... 下一页  >>