How do you network and collaborate with other members of interpreter associations online and offline?

1 Benefits of joining interpreter associations

Joining interpreter associations can provide you with many advantages, such as access to training, mentoring, and certification programs that can help you develop your skills and credentials. This can be a great opportunity to network with other interpreters and gain exposure to potential clients, employers, or partners. Moreover, interpreter associations can offer support and advocacy for your rights and interests, as well as resources on the latest trends, developments, and best practices in the field of interpretation.

2 How to find interpreter associations

There are numerous interpreter associations around the world that specialize in different languages, regions, sectors, and modes of interpretation. For instance, the International Association of Conference Interpreters (AIIC) is the global association of professional conference interpreters, while the American Translators Association (ATA) is the largest association of translators and interpreters in the United States. Additionally, the European Forum of Sign Language Interpreters (EFSLI) is the umbrella organization of national associations of sign language interpreters in Europe. Lastly, the International Federation of Translators (FIT) is the global federation of associations of translators, interpreters, and terminologists. To find an interpreter association that best fits your needs and preferences, you can search online using relevant keywords and your language, region, sector, or mode of interpretation. Furthermore, you can ask your colleagues or mentors for recommendations or referrals. Finally, you can check out the websites or social media pages of prospective associations to learn more about their offerings and requirements for joining.

3 How to join interpreter associations

Once you have identified the interpreter associations that you want to join, you need to follow their application process, which may vary depending on the association. Generally, this includes filling out an online or offline application form with your personal and professional details, such as your name, contact information, education, experience, languages, and references. You will also need to pay a membership fee, which could be annual, biennial, or lifetime. Additionally, you may need to submit proof of your qualifications and pass an admission test or interview. The approval or rejection of your application could take from a few days to a few months.

4 How to network and collaborate online

Once you have joined interpreter associations, you can start networking and collaborating with other members online. This includes joining online platforms or groups that the association provides or recommends, participating in events or activities that the association organizes or sponsors, sharing your insights and experiences with other members, offering feedback, advice, or support to other members, and connecting with other members who have similar interests, goals, or backgrounds. Doing so will help build relationships with other members and provide valuable insights.

5 How to network and collaborate offline

Besides networking and collaborating online, you can also network and collaborate offline with other members of interpreter associations. Attending events or activities that the association organizes or sponsors, such as meetings, socials, trainings, or exhibitions is a great way to get involved. You may also consider volunteering for the association or its projects, mentoring or being mentored by other members, referring or being referred by other members for interpretation jobs or opportunities, and collaborating with other members on interpretation projects or assignments. All of these activities can be beneficial to your career in the field of interpretation.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?