Simultaneous interpreting: when the programme must not stop
In simultaneous interpreting, interpreters speak almost at the same time as the speaker. They sit in a sound-proof interpreting booth; the audience listens through receivers and headsets. The programme runs at normal pace – even with several languages in parallel.
The work demands intense concentration. The professional association AIIC therefore states that a team as a rule consists of at least two interpreters per language and per booth who take turns. There is a dedicated international standard for mobile booths (ISO 17651-2:2024).
Good for: conferences, congresses, general meetings, trainings with many participants.
Consecutive interpreting: personal and without equipment
In consecutive interpreting, the speaker talks for a section, pauses, and the interpreter renders what was said in the other language – often using a special note-taking technique. No booth, no headsets.
The price is time: everything is said twice, so the session takes noticeably longer. Plan for this in your programme.
Good for: speeches at dinners, press talks, guided tours, small-group negotiations, appointments at the notary or authorities.
Whispered, liaison and video interpreting
- Whispered interpreting (chuchotage): the interpreter sits next to one or two people and interprets quietly in real time. With more listeners the room gets too noisy – then a small tour-guide system is the better choice.
- Liaison / negotiation interpreting: interpreting in both directions, typically for business meetings and negotiations.
- Video interpreting: the interpreter joins via video – practical when not everyone is in the same place.
Comparison at a glance
| Simultaneous | Consecutive | Whispered | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Equipment | booth, receivers, headsets | none | none or tour-guide system |
| Listeners | any number | small to medium group | one or two people |
| Time needed | as without interpreting | noticeably longer | as without interpreting |
| Typical for | conferences, congresses | speeches, tours, appointments | delegations, individuals |
Checklist: what interpreters need from you
- Date, time, venue and expected duration
- Languages and direction (e.g. German ↔ Russian)
- Number of listeners and type of event
- Programme, presentations and speeches – ideally a few days in advance
- Names, titles and technical terms that will come up
- Equipment available on site and a contact person for it
The more we know in advance, the more precisely we can plan team size, equipment and our quote.
Frequently asked questions
How early should I book interpreters?
As early as possible – especially for multi-day events, several languages or rare language combinations. For short-notice dates, please ask anyway.
Do I need a booth for a short meeting?
Usually not. For small groups, consecutive or whispered interpreting is enough. A booth pays off when many people listen or the programme must run without interruption.
Do you also work outside Leipzig?
We are based in Leipzig. For assignments in other cities, for example Dresden or Halle, please send us the place and date.
Sources
This guide gives a general overview and is not legal advice. Requirements can differ between authorities and from case to case – if in doubt, check with the office responsible.