What is the primary goal of positioning for interpreters?

The primary goal of positioning for interpreters is to promote communication. Effective positioning allows an interpreter to establish an optimal environment for conveying messages between parties. This includes being physically placed where both the source and target language speakers can see and hear the interpreter clearly. Good positioning helps to facilitate direct eye contact, which can significantly enhance understanding and connection among participants.

In the context of interpretation, promoting communication also entails ensuring that the message is conveyed accurately and without distortion, which can be influenced by how the interpreter is positioned with respect to the speakers. While enhancing vocabulary, building rapport, and achieving cultural understanding are important aspects of an interpreter's role, they are secondary to the fundamental objective of enabling clear and effective communication between individuals who may not share a common language.