You might think that anyone who is bilingual can be an interpreter. But interpreting is actually far more than speaking two languages fluently. The interpreter must also communicate the style and tone of the speaker, while taking into account differences of culture and dialect. The listeners should hear the interpreted message as if it had been originally spoken in their own language. A professional interpreter can make this look easy, but it's not.

Your search for the best interpreter for your job should also take into account whether any specialty-specific terminology will be used. Many interpreters have had advanced training in medical, legal, or community interpreting.

So take a minute to review your job and decide what kind of interpreter you need. Then use our searchable online ATA Directory of Translation and Interpreting Services to find the right professional interpreter for your job.