Hiring an Interpreter for a Product Launch in Japan
For a product launch in Japan, an English–Japanese interpreter lets your speakers present, take questions and talk with media, retailers and guests in their own language. Most launch events use consecutive interpreting: the speaker pauses after each point and the interpreter delivers it in Japanese, so plan for speeches to take roughly twice as long. Brief your interpreter early with the script, slides, product names and likely questions, and decide which parts need interpreting: the keynote, the Q&A, media interviews and one-to-one conversations on the floor.
Where an interpreter helps at a launch
| Part of the event | What the interpreter does |
|---|---|
| Opening speech or presentation | Interprets each section after the speaker, from a prepared script where possible. |
| Q&A | Interprets questions from the Japanese audience and your answers. |
| Media interviews | Supports interviews with journalists and creators. See interpreting interviews. |
| Retailer and partner meetings | Helps your team talk with buyers, distributors and partners at or after the event. |
| Demonstrations | Explains how the product works to guests on the floor. |
Consecutive interpreting and timing
We provide consecutive interpreting, which suits launches with a single speaker, a Q&A and smaller groups. Because each point is said twice, a 15-minute speech becomes about 30 minutes. Many companies shorten the speech, put key messages on Japanese slides and let the interpreter carry the rest. For large conferences needing simultaneous interpreting with booths and equipment, you’ll need a specialist agency. See interpreters for seminars and talks.
Brief your interpreter
- Script and slides at least a few days before.
- Product names, features and claims, with how you want them said in Japanese.
- Key messages you want journalists to take away.
- Likely questions and sensitive topics, such as price, release dates and competitors.
- Run of show: timings, speakers, and who the interpreter supports when.
Prepare your Japanese materials too
A launch also needs Japanese slides, a press release, product information and signage. Translate them early so the interpreter can use the same terms. See press releases for Japan, translating presentation slides and choosing a brand name for Japan.
In person or online
For an event in Japan, an interpreter on site works best. For an online launch or a livestream with Japanese viewers, online interpreting works for Q&A sessions and presentations with planned pauses. We also interpret abroad, for example when you launch to Japanese partners or press visiting your country; you cover the interpreter’s travel costs.
How Hanabuddies can help
We provide English–Japanese interpreters for product launches, press events and partner meetings, in person anywhere in Japan or abroad (you cover the interpreter’s travel costs) and online. We also translate your slides, press release and product materials, and Takekuni proofreads our Japanese. We interpret consecutively; we don’t provide simultaneous interpreting, event management or PR services.