#lessonslearned – Yellow Owl

Dare to be different!

Discovering your unique abilities is one of the most liberating experiences. It never feels like hard work and exciting opportunities of making a positive impact in society keep unfolding. Through self-awareness and introspection of who I am as a person first; l am able to apply the same intrinsic truths across every area of my life – including my career.

Now, this is not to say that I am the only skilled interpreter around – in fact, there are better interpreters out there who’ve been doing this way longer. The point I’m trying to drive home is firstly; how to identify your unique traits within a saturated industry; then using the same qualities to help you stand out from the crowd.

Here are three tips on how to identify your often overlooked unique abilities.

1) Lifelong habits and behaviours

Look for and pay attention to preferences, habits, and behaviours that have consistently shown up since childhood. These affect your outlook on life and how you engage with the people around you.

I’ve always enjoyed smaller, more intimate groups because they feel personal and loyal. When I’m not alone processing my thoughts; I often find myself with one or two trusted people in my personal space, whether friends or family.

Looking back, this guarded introverted approach has definitely influenced how I choose my interpreting projects and clients. Today, I offer exclusive interpreting services to three individual clients, who over the years have become trusted friends. Secondly, I prefer to collaborate with smaller, independent organisations because that encourage full participation in the decision-making process.

2) It comes so naturally, it often doesn’t feel special

We have a tendency to take our unique abilities for granted because we’ve always done things this way; it no longer feels flashy or exciting. Maybe you can solve problems easily, you have an eye for intricate detail, you’re a natural leader, or you’re an entertaining storyteller.

These clues come up in areas where your execution is effortless for you, but somehow seems difficult for others doing the same task.

I have a good memory and I can retain large volumes of information mentally for a long time. Reading, research, decoding information, and having a vivid imagination come naturally to me. I enjoy engaging with content that enhances my cognitive stimulation.

Whether it’s interpreting a keynote address, or a training session, or even ‘reading’ the emotions in a room; interpreters use both their left and right brain for language, judgement, visualisation and creativity.

3) You show up as the hero

What things do other people always count on you for?

Are you punctual? Do you always keep your word and do what you say you’ll do? Perhaps you have a positive attitude that uplifts everyone else.
The ways that you positively impact people are the things they’ll consistently come to you for; it’s also how you show up as a hero in.

I am known for making things happen – people often delegate me a leadership role that requires planning, effective communication and assertiveness.

Having established your unique traits across different areas of your life; here are three more reasons why interpreters should dare to be different.

1) It’s noisy and everyone is shouting

Although the interpreting industry is fairly unknown to most; my observation is that the opportunities and platforms that do already exist follow traditional ways of communicating information created by somebody else. Whether it’s interpreting on settings such as TV, training or even social circles – everyone seems to blend in and follow what’s been done before.

2) You can’t be a distinguished leader by following others

I’ve always had a deep desire to be at the forefront of change; I always look around and ask myself ‘How can things be done better?’ Interpreting enables me to offer solutions to societal challenges that focus mainly on bridging communication, empowering people, and using technology to innovate exciting ways remove barriers.

Being an entrepreneur and exploring opportunities of collaboration through digital platforms is one way I intend to forge my own path and leave a long-lasting mark in the industry.

3) Great people make things happen – they don’t ask for permission

I honestly don’t think I’d be at this very moment in my life had I waited for someone or something to validate my purpose. My experiences so far have taught me that I am responsible for the way other people treat me – If I value, believe, and trust in myself, then like-minded people often show up in my life at the right time.

As an interpreter, I see many gaps that need to be filled in the way content and information is delivered. We have a long way to go! I have decided to be bold, take charge, and continue to align my daily actions to my bigger vision of driving positive change in our communities through creativity, collaboration, and mastery.

Conclusion

Decide who you want to be and what you want to be remembered for; and often those around adjust. Standing out from the crowd begins with acceptance of the mission laid out in front of you – something that only you can do. Once you discover your unique offering to the world; it’s easier to celebrate people’s successes because you understand there are plenty of opportunities for us all.

To SATI, or not to SATI?

Stamp of Approval

Would you trust a doctor without a practicing licence to help you when feeling sick? Would you sit down and eat the food prepared by a restaurant that is not licenced? Absolutely not! My health and wellness are way too important both for me and my loved ones, to risk food poisoning or even worse – death. The same principle applies to practicing interpreters: as an individual or organisation; I would be very skeptical approaching an interpreter that has no accreditation for my important meeting, and ultimately risk miscommunication and a tarnished reputation.

Each industry has authority bodies that regulate practices and protect the interests of individuals, communities, and organisations. This is to ensure that work is done at a level that meets or exceeds expectations developed in that specific industry. For example, the HPCSA (Health Professions Council of South Africa) is the statutory body in the medical industry that regulates professional services offered by health workers in South Africa. The CGCSA (Consumer Goods Council of South Africa) advocates for food safety and food waste best practices across the retail industry.

For us interpreters, this institute is SATI.

Who is SATI?

The South African Translators’ Institute (SATI) is a professional association for language practitioners in South Africa; ranging from translators, text editors, interpreters, lexicographers, proofreaders, and copywriters. A system of accreditation was introduced in 1990 aimed at improving the standing of language practitioners; maintain a high level of competence; and adherence to a strict code of ethics. The system began with translation and has since expanded into other related language services.

Failure is not final

In 2017, I failed my first attempt at getting accredited. I gave it my best shot and felt devastated to learn that I failed the exam. Honestly, the exam criteria is difficult – it tests all the skills needed for language practitioners to serve and thrive in a competitive industry. Furthermore; overcoming difficulty ensures a high standard of competence needed for real-life, often stressful working environments.

Fortunately, through determination and support; I re-applied in 2018 and passed the exam. There are currently only 12* SATI accredited SASL interpreters in South Africa; hopefully this number grows over time. (*Number updated accordingly).

3 Benefits of SATI membership

Ensure best practice

Being a member of a recognised association helps individuals comply with ethical requirements of their industry and maintain a high quality service. As an interpreter; being a member of SATI helps me stay accountable to fellow interpreters who look up to me; I am responsible to conduct myself professionally and ethically at all times being fully aware how my decisions may impact generations to come – positively or negatively.

2. Peace of mind regarding competence

The most rewarding feeling I get when working with clients is the re-assurance of getting the job done, very well – I can deliver on the promise to always give my best. Displaying competence is a great way to build credibility, trust, and respect with clients, while giving them a peace of mind to focus on the task at hand.

3. Networking opportunities

SATI hosts regular webinars, workshops and training; and as a member I have access to this information because I am on their database system. I receive weekly emails circulating updates of job opportunities, news of other language practitioners, and connecting with fellow professionals. It’s a great way to network and learn from other related language industries.

Strict Regulations

There are some provisions made by SATI that individuals need to be aware before they become members and get accredited. Honestly, these factors have divided the interpreting industry; making it difficult to commit to membership and accreditation. These include lapsing of accreditation if membership fees are not paid; and the year long turn-around time to re-apply if deemed unsuccessful.

However, in the true spirit of SATI and its determination for maintaining excellence for all language practitioners; SASL interpreters looking to become accredited must show evidence of either a language qualification; 5 years experience supported by professional references; and at least 3 month membership.

Conclusion

Accreditation is a controversial topic in our industry – I’m pro accreditation. There’s a deep sense of pride, honour and integrity knowing that I’m dedicating my life to serve with excellence. My advice is go all the way! Invest in your professional interpreting career through training and skills development, mentorship, or accreditation; do whatever it takes.

Anything worthwhile won’t come easy – it’s hard work, consistency, and determination. When you know your why and understand how it fits into the bigger scheme of things; you will be motivated to keep going even when failure comes.