1. What attracted you to the language services industry?
I like the idea of working in something that genuinely helps people day to day. Language can be a real barrier, and being part of a service that helps people understand each other, especially in important situations like healthcare or legal settings, feels meaningful. Interpreting and translation services is one of those industries where you can see the real-world impact. 2. What do you find most rewarding, and most challenging about your role? The most rewarding part is knowing that when things run smoothly, people get the support they need without extra stress. It’s nice to know you’ve helped make that happen. The most challenging part is that demand can be unpredictable and sometimes urgent, so you’re often juggling a lot at once and trying to keep everyone satisfied. 3. What’s one change you’d like to see in commissioning frameworks over the next 5 years that would transform how interpreting services are valued and delivered? Less focus on the cheapest option, and more focus on quality and reliability. Good interpreting really does make a difference, and it shouldn’t be treated as a ‘box-ticking’ exercise. I’d also like to see more understanding around the cost of living and less pushback on reasonable travel costs for interpreters. If quality and the realities of delivering the service were valued more, it would raise standards across the board. 4. What changes do you think are needed to make interpreting and translation more attractive as a profession for young people entering the workforce? Better awareness that it’s a real career, not just a side job. Clear progression, decent pay, and showing the variety of work available would help. A lot of young people just don’t know what the industry offers. Matthew Winn, Business Development Manager at Silent Sounds Communications. 5. If you weren’t at Silent Sounds, what career path do you think you might have followed? Probably something in business or consulting. I enjoy working with people, solving problems, and building relationships, so I’d likely end up somewhere that uses those skills. 6. Which niche or growth areas in language services might be most appealing to new professionals building a career today? Video and remote interpreting are growing fast and suit people who are comfortable with tech. Healthcare and community work are also strong areas because there’s always demand and the work feels worthwhile. 7. When you’re not working, what’s your favourite pastime? Spending time with my one and two year olds is a big part of my free time, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I also enjoy watching football and travelling around the UK to follow Grimsby Town FC -it’s a great way to switch off and enjoy something outside of work. Related articles: