Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Rita Ibdah. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Rita, appreciate you joining us today. What’s the best or worst investment you’ve made (either in terms of time or money)? (Note, these responses are only intended as entertainment and shouldn’t be construed as investment advice)

One of the best investments I’ve made in my professional development as a legal interpreter is in my continuous education. This commitment is not only part of the code of professional conduct for interpreters in U.S. courts but also essential to my mission of promoting language justice.

As an independent contractor, I owe it to myself and my clients to continually improve my skills and knowledge. Language justice ensures that individuals have equal access to information and resources, regardless of their language proficiency. This is especially important in the legal field, where misunderstandings can have serious consequences.

The legal landscape, particularly in areas such as immigration, is constantly evolving, with laws and regulations changing frequently. To provide accurate and effective interpretation services, I must stay informed and educated. I engage in various activities, such as professional training, attending conferences, and reading relevant articles, to ensure I am equipped to serve my clients effectively.

Moreover, we are now in the era of AI, which is transforming many aspects of the legal profession. To uphold language justice, I prioritise keeping my skills updated and learning how to integrate new technologies into my work. This allows me to better serve clients who may face language barriers, ensuring they receive fair treatment and access to legal resources.

By investing in my continuous education, I not only advance my career but also enhance the quality of service I provide, contributing to a more equitable legal system. This commitment to lifelong learning reinforces my role as an advocate for language justice, allowing me to empower clients and help bridge communication gaps within the legal context.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I am a dedicated legal and medical interpreter with a passion for bridging communication gaps and promoting understanding across cultures. My journey into the field of interpretation began in my twenties while working as a secretary to the board at a local bank in Dubai. Part of my role involved translating all board and general assembly meetings, as well as internal memos and external communications on behalf of the chairman. This early experience ignited my passion for languages and set the foundation for my career.

As I advanced in my career, my love for languages deepened, leading me to specialize in translation for various sectors. I have translated HR policies, business books, and operational manuals for automotive manufacturers in Europe, further honing my skills and expanding my understanding of different cultures. For me, languages are not just a collection of vocabulary; they are keys to learning about cultures, understanding emotions, and interpreting the nuances of human behavior.

In my work as an interpreter, I believe that effective communication goes beyond mere translation. It requires a deep understanding of the cultural context and sometimes even body language. This is especially important when working with under-resourced languages, where language justice becomes a critical aspect of my practice. I strive to ensure that every client, regardless of their language background, receives equitable access to the information and resources they need.

One of the things I am most proud of in my field is my unwavering commitment to impartiality and accuracy. When I wear my interpreter’s hat, I approach each assignment with an unbiased perspective, respecting the integrity of every word spoken. I honour the content without omission or addition, ensuring that every interpretation is accurate and complete—each time, for every client, without exception.

For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want to emphasize that my work is grounded in a strong ethical commitment to quality and respect for individuals’ voices. I believe that communication is a fundamental right, and I am dedicated to being a reliable partner in navigating the complexities of the legal and medical fields. My goal is to empower clients through clear and effective communication, ultimately contributing to a more equitable environment for all.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

Building my reputation in the legal and medical interpreting market has stemmed from several key factors. First and foremost, my commitment to quality and accuracy ensures that clients can trust me with critical communications. Continuous education has allowed me to stay current with industry trends and enhance my skills. Additionally, my focus on cultural competence and empathy enables me to create a supportive environment for clients, which fosters strong relationships. Networking with colleagues and professionals has facilitated valuable connections and referrals, while my adherence to professional integrity and ethical standards reinforces trust in my services. Overall, these elements combined have established my reputation as a reliable and respected interpreter.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

The most effective strategy for growing my clientele has been building strong relationships through networking and collaboration. By actively engaging with legal and medical professionals, attending industry conferences, and participating in community events, I have been able to connect with potential clients and establish a referral network. Additionally, maintaining a strong online presence through social media and professional platforms has helped me showcase my expertise and attract new clients. Providing excellent service and ensuring client satisfaction has led to positive word-of-mouth referrals, further expanding my reach. Overall, combining networking with a commitment to quality and client relationships has been key to my growth.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.ritaibdah.com/
• Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/rita-i-682631196