When interpreting, what is essential for maintaining professionalism in a specific situation?

Maintaining professionalism while interpreting involves adhering to relevant interpreting standards and protocols. These standards are established to ensure that interpreters provide accurate, objective, and impartial services. They guide interpreters in how to handle various situations, maintain confidentiality, and navigate ethical dilemmas, reflecting a commitment to high-quality interpretation.

The reliance on established standards helps create a consistent and trustworthy environment for all parties involved, enabling effective communication. By prioritizing these guidelines, interpreters can focus on delivering the message faithfully, while minimizing the influence of personal biases or feelings, which is crucial in interpreting settings.

In contrast, personal comfort with a topic, favoritism towards participants, or expressing personal feelings about the content could compromise the integrity of the interpretation process, leading to inaccuracies or a breakdown in communication. Hence, the strongest basis for professionalism is firmly rooted in adherence to the appropriate standards and protocols.