When hiring interpretation services, it's essential to ensure that the service you choose is reliable, accurate, and professional. Here are 4 red flags to watch out for when evaluating interpretation services:

1. Lack of Professional Certification or Credentials

• Red Flag: If the interpreter or interpretation service cannot provide proof of certification or relevant credentials, it may indicate a lack of professionalism or expertise.
• Why It’s a Concern: Certified interpreters are trained to accurately interpret complex language and cultural nuances, ensuring the communication is effective and reliable. Without proper certification (such as those from the American Translators Association (ATA) or National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters (NBCMI)), the quality of interpretation may suffer, especially in high-stakes situations like legal or medical contexts.

2. Inconsistent or Poor References/Reviews

• Red Flag: If the interpretation service has inconsistent reviews or no clear track record of positive client feedback, it could indicate that they do not consistently provide high-quality services.
• Why It’s a Concern: A reputable interpretation service should have a proven track record of satisfied clients. Negative or vague reviews, or a lack of any references, may point to poor reliability, subpar quality, or unethical practices. Always check for client testimonials or ask for references before hiring.

3. Unclear or Unreasonable Pricing

• Red Flag: If the pricing is either unusually low or vague, with no clear breakdown of costs, it may signal potential issues such as hidden fees, overcharging, or a lack of transparency.
• Why It’s a Concern: Professional interpretation services require skilled linguists, and the cost typically reflects their expertise. Extremely low rates can indicate a lack of quality control or inexperienced interpreters. Conversely, high prices without clear justification can be a sign of price-gouging or exploitation. Always request a detailed quote and make sure the rates are aligned with industry standards.

4. Lack of Specialization for Your Specific Industry

• Red Flag: If the interpretation service does not offer expertise or specialization in the area you require (such as legal, medical, or technical fields), this could result in inaccurate or inappropriate interpretation.
• Why It’s a Concern: Different fields require different knowledge. For example, medical interpretation requires familiarity with medical terminology, patient confidentiality, and clinical settings, while legal interpretation requires knowledge of legal terminology and processes. Using an interpreter without specialized experience in your field can lead to misunderstandings, incorrect translations, or even legal consequences.

Conclusion: When selecting interpretation services, make sure to verify the credentials of the interpreters, check reviews and references, ensure clear and fair pricing, and confirm that the service specializes in your specific industry needs. Avoiding these red flags will help ensure you receive accurate and professional interpretation services.