Quality interpreting service is difficult to find. Once you have found an agency that meets your criteria, there are some simple things you can do to assist that agency in continuing to serve you better.

• Book your interpreter early. The more notice a co-ordinator has, the easier the task of booking an interpreter is, and the higher quality interpreter you receive. Accredited interpreters are often booked far in advance.
  
  
• Provide the setting for your appointment when requesting an interpreter. The more information interpreters receive, the better prepared they can be for the session. For instance, in a medical assessment, some terms not normally used in daily conversation may be used. Interpreters should have an opportunity to brush up on medical terminology.
  
  
• A reputable interpreting agency will fax you a form, time permitting, confirming that an interpreter has been booked. Check the form to verify the appointment date, time and location are correct. The person taking your call may have not heard you correctly. This will eliminate interpreters not showing up because of miscommunication. If you do not get confirmation call and ask for it. A fax machine may not be working properly or it may have accidentally gone to the wrong fax number.
  
  
• Provide a phone number and the main intersection closest to the appointment location. Professional interpreters take their jobs seriously. They do their best to be punctual. Unfortunately, circumstances beyond their control sometimes make this impossible. Having a location phone number will allow the interpreter to notify you when a problem occurs, especially during the winter months when accidents and slow driving are common. Providing the main intersection will avoid confusion, and reduce unnecessary driving when two nearby cities have the same street name.
  
  
• Interpreters are instructed to wait outside when going to a residence. This helps them remain neutral by not making small talk with the person you are meeting while waiting for you. If your interpreter does not arrive before you, wait outside for them.
  
  
• Tell your interpreter how to find you by describing your car or coat when arranging to meet in a public place. This is helpful if you are meeting at a "rush hour" time such as lunch time.
  
  
• Interpreters are not allowed to explain what is being interpreted. Their sole purpose is to repeat what you say in another language, otherwise they may inadvertently change the meaning of your words. If you are getting inappropriate answers to your questions try rewording the question and, whenever possible, try to use simple terms. The person you are interviewing may not be understanding what you are asking. A claimant who does not speak English was not educated in Canada and may have only completed basic education in their home country.
  
  
• The most important piece of advice for arranging an interpreter is: Give your feedback. If you have a problem with an interpreter your interpreting company is not able to correct the problem if they are not aware of it. Also, if there is an interpreter with whom you worked really well, let your provider know. You can just put a comment on their confirmation of hours form, or phone them. They should be willing to do their best in the future to arrange the interpreters with whom you have already had success.
  
  
• Reputable agencies will ensure accurate billing by having the interpreter submit a form with the hours worked and verified with the service user’s signature. Please ensure that all the information is correct and that you sign this form. If no form is available, a hand-written note with the date, time and your signature should suffice.

Interpreting agencies work as a team with you. Following these simple steps will facilitate your provider’s’ job in giving you the best quality service available.