If you’re looking to take advantage of the many business opportunities in Japan, you must prioritize high-quality communication. After all, communication underpins all our relationships, whether personal or professional.
If you’re not a native Japanese speaker, you’re likely looking for a Japanese interpreter to help with this challenge. The question is: what exactly should you look for in a Japanese interpreter—and how can you be confident you’re choosing the right one for your business needs?
1. Choose the right type of interpretation…
First of all, it’s important to work out what kind of interpretation suits your needs. There are two main types: consecutive and simultaneous. With consecutive interpretation, the speaker pauses to allow the interpreter to translate their words from English into Japanese (or vice versa), and then the other party responds. Usually, just one interpreter is required; however, the pause can disrupt the flow of the interaction.
With simultaneous interpreting, the interpretation occurs in real time, usually with headsets, soundproof booths, and other technical interpreting equipment. There are no awkward pauses, but more equipment is required, as well as at least two interpreters, allowing each one to take turns and have the break they’ll need from such intense work. This type of interpretation is particularly suited to fast-paced settings, along with situations involving large audiences or multiple speakers.
2. …And in the right form
Japanese interpreters work across a variety of platforms, as well as in-person, and even over the phone. The best choice for you depends on a variety of factors, many of which are logistical. If you need an telephone interpreter with minimal notice for a short assignment in a remote location, a telephone interpreter fits the bill. However, for longer, more complex projects, and particularly those with technical vocabulary or multiple participants, an in-person interpreter is usually the best solution. In-person interpreters can pick up on all the non-verbal cues and cultural subtleties much easier than an interpreter working over the phone or remotely.
Not all interpreters offer all of these options; some specialize in on-site work in a particular town or city, while others have honed their skills working virtually and can operate seamlessly on Zoom, Teams, or Webex.
3. Assess their cultural fluency
Communication in Japanese goes beyond mastery of the language itself. An understanding of the culture also plays a vital role, as non-verbal communication can be as important as what’s said explicitly. There’s even a specific saying for this in Japanese – kuuki o yomu, or “reading the air” – which refers to the art of being attuned to the social context and what is left unsaid.
This is notoriously difficult for a non-native speaker, even if they’re fluent in the Japanese language. A seasoned Japanese interpreter will be able to pick up on these unspoken elements of communication, as well as reflect the most appropriate level of formality and tone, as dictated by Keigo, the system of honorifics that underpins Japanese society.
Unlike in English, where tone is often conveyed through phrasing or formality, Keigo is built directly into Japanese grammar and vocabulary. It plays a particularly important role in professional settings, notably in industries like tech where hierarchical relationships are strong and international partnerships are common. A skilled interpreter must understand not only when to use Keigo, but also how to reflect the same social nuances in English, without sounding overly stiff or informal.
4. Vet for tech-savvy interpreters
An interpreter who keeps up with the latest developments in tech will perform far better than one unfamiliar with the sector. Most larger interpreting agencies will have at their disposal a range of linguists with expertise in a variety of sectors.
This is also important when selecting Japanese translation services for your written documents such as technical manuals, product specifications, or software documentation. Here, accuracy and an in-depth knowledge of industry-specific terminology are both essential.
5. Share information with your interpreter
Imagine walking into a technical conversation between two people you’d never met, who were discussing the finer details of a project they’d been working on for years. Chances are, even in your native language, it would take you a little while to get up to speed and work out what was going on.
Bear this in mind when you start working with your Japanese interpreter. No matter how fantastic their language skills, they’ll still need time to familiarize themselves with the ins and outs of your project. Beforehand, be sure to share as much relevant information as possible and take the time to outline your current position and what you expect to arise during the meeting or discussion.
Give your interpreter access to as much background material in advance, too, including the meeting agenda, slide decks, technical glossaries, or information about the stakeholders. The more your interpreter understands, the better they can represent your message. Many people have reservations about this due to their concerns about confidentiality. This brings us nicely to the next point…
6. Check for NDA compliance and confidentiality protocols
Sharing confidential information with someone you’ve just met can feel counterintuitive and daunting, to say the least. That’s why it’s essential to investigate how your Japanese interpreter approaches confidentiality.
Look for ISO 17100, as this demonstrates a language agency’s dedication to client confidentiality and the protection of your intellectual property. Additionally, their Japanese interpreters will likely sign a non-disclosure agreement prior to the sharing of any sensitive information.
7. Spend time connecting with your Japanese interpreter
Once you’ve done the groundwork and found an interpreter with the right level of tech expertise, professionalism, and cultural understanding, you’re good to go. But, there’s one final thing that will make the interpretation process smoother and more enjoyable; put the time in to get to know your Japanese interpreter first.
Communication is easier with people we know and trust, so by spending a little time conversing with your interpreter, you’ll make the entire experience more human, less transactional, and ultimately, more successful.
If you’re expanding your business in Japan or working with some of the country’s flourishing tech companies, a Japanese interpreter is essential to help you communicate confidently and effectively. The right interpreter becomes more than a translator; you’ll find they quickly transform into your very own cultural guide and business ally. With their support, you can build lasting partnerships and make the most of Japan’s potential for your company’s growth.
