Analysis On The Role Of An Interpreter On Business Occasions-A Practice Report Based On Liaison Interpreting

With Chinese economy posing a greater influence on the world economy and the far-reaching impact of globalization,cross-border trade is booming unprecedentedly.Within this context,the demand for liaison interpreters grows,especially on business occasions and their roles are also gaining increasing importance.The focuses of studies are shifting to interpreters as subjects as well.Unlike conference interpreting,liaison interpreting is less formal and people tend to talk face to face without any notes.Liaison interpreting could happen anywhere,in an exhibition,a factory,a café or even when walking.Liaison interpreters can be more flexible and play various roles in different situations.This report is based on the author's interpreting practice in September and November 2019.The author was the interpreter for two English-speaking clients from a Thai tour company and they planned to have a commercial discussion with Nanhu Travel,several meetings with real estate brokers to rent an office and a casual conversation with a freelance accountant.This report includes task description,pre-task preparation,processes and reflections,guidance of Skopos theory in liaison interpreting,case analysis and conclusion.This report tries to illustrate the four roles of interpreters in business liaison interpreting,information transmitter,conversation participant,information provider and activity organizer.The purpose of this report is to provide reference for future liaison interpreters,enabling them to enhance interpreting skills so that they could better serve the parties involved in business activities and to make business exchange a success.