What are some best practices for self-monitoring and correcting interpreter errors?

1 Why self-monitoring is important

Self-monitoring is the ability to listen to your own output and detect any errors or inconsistencies with the source speech. It is essential for quality control and feedback in SI, as you are the only one who can judge your performance and make adjustments on the spot. Self-monitoring can help you avoid or minimize the negative impact of errors on the message, the speaker, and the audience.

2 How to detect interpreter errors

Interpreter errors can be classified into different types, such as omissions, additions, substitutions, distortions, or hesitations. Some errors are more obvious than others, such as mispronouncing a word, skipping a sentence, or using the wrong tense. Other errors are more subtle, such as changing the tone, the register, or the emphasis of the speaker. To detect errors, you need to pay attention to both the form and the content of your output, and compare it with the source speech. You can also use external cues, such as the speaker's gestures, facial expressions, or feedback signals, to check your accuracy.

3 How to correct interpreter errors

Once you have detected an error, you need to decide whether and how to correct it. Not all errors need to be corrected, as some may be insignificant or irrelevant for the message. However, if the error affects the meaning, the coherence, or the credibility of the speaker, you should try to correct it as soon as possible. There are different ways to correct errors, such as repeating, reformulating, clarifying, or apologizing. The choice of the correction strategy depends on the type and the severity of the error, as well as the time and the context of the situation.

4 How to prevent interpreter errors

The best way to cope with interpreter errors is to prevent them from happening in the first place. This requires a lot of preparation, practice, and self-care. Before an assignment, you should research the topic, the speaker, and the audience, and familiarize yourself with the terminology, the style, and the purpose of the speech. You should also practice your SI skills regularly, and seek feedback from peers or mentors. During an assignment, you should manage your stress, your energy, and your emotions, and avoid distractions, interruptions, or interferences. You should also work as a team with your booth partner, and support each other in case of difficulties.

5 How to learn from interpreter errors

Interpreter errors are inevitable, but they are also valuable opportunities for learning and improvement. After an assignment, you should review your performance and identify your strengths and weaknesses. You should analyze the causes and the effects of your errors, and reflect on how you could have avoided or corrected them better. You should also seek feedback from your colleagues, your clients, or your listeners, and use it to set goals and action plans for your future assignments.

6 How to cope with interpreter errors

Coping with interpreter errors is not only a matter of skill, but also a matter of attitude. You should accept that errors are part of the SI process, and not let them affect your confidence or your motivation. You should also acknowledge that errors are not always your fault, and that sometimes they are beyond your control. You should be flexible and adaptable, and ready to face any challenges that may arise in SI. You should also be respectful and professional, and always strive to deliver the best possible service to your clients and your listeners.