Interpretation Services in Madrid
Interpreting in Madrid
Do you need to organise an event with people speaking different languages?
Do you need to meet a customer from another country, but you don’t speak their language?
Your client needs to give testimony in a trial; however, they do not speak the courts language?
We offer professional interpreting services for all those situations in which it is necessary to facilitate communication between people who speak different languages.
In simultaneous interpretation, the interpreter translates the speaker’s message in real time. This modality is the most convenient for congresses, conferences, big meetings and events; there is no need to stop the original speech and it can be done into several languages at the same time.
To carry out a simultaneous interpretation, technical equipment is required: soundproof booths, audio consoles with microphones and headsets, and receptors for the attendees. It is also highly recommended to have technical assistants to supervise the equipment functions correctly.
For events with a small number of attendees, or requiring mobility, we also offer simultaneous interpreting with Infoport – a wireless system similar to the one used for guided tours.
It should be noted that given the mental effort and fatigue experienced by interpreters, for events lasting over an hour it will be mandatory to hire two interpreters.
In consecutive interpretation, the speaker stops every 5-10 minutes, for the interpreter to translate the message into the target language. While the speaker is speaking, the interpreter takes notes that will help them recall the speech and deliver the translation.
The main advantage of the consecutive mode is that no technical equipment is required, but the speech is lengthened. For this reason, it is commonly used for short speeches and presentations, press conferences or events with only one speaker. Additionally, this modality only allows us to translate the message into one single language.
Bilateral or liaison interpretation takes place when the interpreter facilitates communication between two speakers who do not share the same language. It works in a similar way to consecutive mode, as the speaker must stop periodically to let the interpreter translate the message. This service is mainly used in commercial meetings, negotiations, legal depositions, visits to trade fairs, talks, symposiums, interviews, etc.
RSI (remote simultaneous interpretation) has grown in popularity and is currently one of our most requested services. Here, the interpreters are not on-site, but they connect through digital platforms that support interpretation.
This modality allows clients to reduce costs, since there is no need to cover for applicable travel fees. However, the customer must guarantee optimum technical conditions, meaning that the speakers must use an external microphone and have a good internet connection so that the interpreter is able to hear clearly, without noises or interference.
You don’t know where to start?
Don’t worry. Contact us and we will advise you on the best options for your specific requirements, or anything you may need.
Questions about our interpreting services in Madrid
The main difference lies in the time and infrastructure. In simultaneous interpreting, the interpreter translates the speech in real time from a soundproof booth, and the audience listens through headphones; it’s the ideal option for conferences and large events in Madrid. In consecutive interpreting, the speaker speaks for a few minutes and then pauses so the interpreter, who has taken notes, can read the message aloud; it’s recommended for press conferences or short speeches.
Liaison (or escort) interpreting is designed for short distances and small, one-on-one meetings. The interpreter acts as a direct link between two or three parties, efficiently translating short phrases in both directions. It is the ideal format for private business meetings in Madrid’s financial district, contract negotiations, visits by foreign clients to factories, or signings before a notary.
Remote interpreting allows for the use of professional interpreters without their need to be physically present at the event. It is managed through digital platforms designed for simultaneous interpretation (such as Zoom, Teams, or dedicated streaming software). The only requirement is that both speakers and interpreters have a stable, high-speed internet connection, a good microphone, and headphones to ensure clear sound.
To calculate a rate tailored to your needs, we require the following essential information: the exact date and duration of the event, the required format (simultaneous, consecutive, etc.), the physical location in Madrid (or if it is online), the source and target languages, the technical topic to be covered, and the expected number of attendees to assess whether it is necessary to provide additional technical equipment (receivers or booths).
Ideally, interpretation services should be booked two to four weeks in advance, especially during peak conference periods in Madrid. Regarding documentation (speaker presentations, glossaries, speeches, or scripts), we would appreciate receiving it at least one week before the event. This allows the interpreting team to thoroughly review the material, standardize technical criteria, and ensure absolute terminological accuracy during the presentations.
