Patterns & Metaphors
Intercultural consultants
Other Names:
Intercultural interpreter
Template:
Appointed consultants for each cultural group at conferences who ensure that images, metaphors, idioms, gestures and other communicative behaviour are interpreted into their own culture as they were intended by the presenting culture.
[Advantages] Bridging cultural gaps and creating an awareness of cultural sensibilities which might otherwise be ignored creating offence or otherwise hindering the establishment of good communications between participants.
[Disadvantages] Interpreters tend to de-emphasize the responsibility for effective communication which rests on whoever is presenting. Too much can be dumped onto the interpreter while presenters can continue to be blind and unaware of the intercultural issues thereby impoverishing both their understanding of the audience and their ability to communicate effectively with it.
