Questions: Why should you consider personal traits when selecting an interpreter? If your counterpart and your interpreter are too similar, they may take sides against you. Traits like age, gender, and social status will influence how others see your interpreter and, by extension, you.

When selecting an interpreter, considering personal traits is important for several reasons:

1. Cultural and Social Perception: Traits such as age, gender, and social status can significantly influence how others perceive your interpreter and, by extension, you. In many cultures, these traits can affect the level of respect and authority an interpreter commands. For example, in some societies, an older interpreter might be seen as more experienced and respected, while in others, a younger interpreter might be preferred for their perceived modernity and adaptability.

2. Bias and Neutrality: While the concern that an interpreter might take sides if they are too similar to your counterpart is less common, it is important to ensure that the interpreter remains neutral and unbiased. Personal traits can sometimes influence an interpreter's perspective or the way they are perceived by others, which could impact the interpretation process.

3. Experience and Expertise: While age and gender alone are not definitive indicators of experience, they can sometimes provide context. For instance, in certain fields or regions, older interpreters might have more accumulated experience, while in others, gender might play a role in the types of assignments an interpreter has undertaken. However, it is crucial to assess an interpreter's qualifications and experience based on their professional background rather than solely on personal traits.

In summary, while personal traits should not be the sole criteria for selecting an interpreter, they are important factors to consider in conjunction with professional qualifications to ensure effective communication and cultural sensitivity.