Simultaneous Interpreting for Conferences and Multilingual Events
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Simultaneous interpreting involves highly trained linguists interpreting speech at the same time as the original speaker, typically using a soundproof booth and headsets. This is most popular for large scale events such as conferences, or if multiple languages are needed.

Dixon Associates has a vast network of experienced interpreters covering over 400 language pairs and many specialisms, so you can be confident that we will speak your language.

Simultaneous interpreting involves the interpreter relaying what the speaker says in the target language in real time. This is achieved by the speaker using a microphone, which the interpreters listen to using headsets in a soundproof booth. The interpreter then translates what the speaker is saying into a microphone, which the audience listen to using earpieces. Each linguist works in one direction, and often in pairs due to the high mental workload.

This method of interpreting requires extensive training and experience, and is very mentally demanding for the linguists, so they typically alternate interpreting with their colleague after around half an hour. It can also sometimes be slightly confusing for audience members who are not accustomed to it, as they can usually hear both languages at the same time, or with a very slight delay. As a result, it is most popular for large events such as conferences, or when multiple languages are needed.

Simultaneous interpreting is most frequently provided in-person, since it generally requires specialist equipment such as soundproof booths and headsets for the interpreters, and earpieces for audience members. It can sometimes be provided remotely using specialist software but may be challenging using conventional video meetings or telephone calls.