Using an interpreter effectively is an essential skill to learn when attempting to provide quality service with multicultural consumers.

79% of Asian Americans speak a language other than English at home
74% of U.S. Hispanics speak Spanish at home.

While most borrowers will speak fluent English, they may have a much higher comfortability with their native tongue, and particularly when talking about something that has massive consequences if not understood in its entirety, an interpreter should always be made available.

Using an interpreter is not always as simple as it sounds. There are a few best practices that we have outlined in this infographic and full article for you to keep in mind in creating a successful experience for your client and interpreter.

Take Action:

Ask around for a local interpreter to meet the language needs of your prospects/clients. Check for experience, native fluency, and dialect(s). Create a list of interpreters your office can use as a resource to request interpretation as needed. Most importantly, start advertising the fact that you offer an interpreter and offer this to your next clients whose native language is not English.

DISCLOSURE:

Cultural Outreach is committed to not only building stronger communities and equalizing opportunities for homeownership but also to increasing empathy and diversity in the workplace. Our insights represent a collective sum of research into the individual differences, life experiences, self-expression, and unique talents of today’s buyers.

References to consumer and industry insights do not necessarily constitute or imply its endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by Cultural Outreach or any of their employees and contractors. Your thoughtful opinions are valued and highly encouraged in order to help us better understand how to create exceptional value for this industry.