•assimilating speakers' words quickly, including jargon and acronyms;
•analysing sentences expressed in one language and explaining them using another language;
•building up specialist vocabulary banks;
•writing notes to aid memory;
•using microphones and headsets;
•preparing paperwork - considering agendas before meetings, or lectures/speeches when received in advance;
•using the internet to conduct research;
•organising workload and liaising with internal departments, agencies and/or employers;
•working to a professional code of ethics covering confidentiality and impartiality.