One of the keys to being a successful interpreter is to avoid complacency. In other words, the best interpreters are those who are never completely content with their professional level and continually strive to further their knowledge and skills.  

This idea is so important that it's a canon for both legal and medical interpreters. For example, the National Association of Judiciary Interpreters and Translators (NAJIT) lists "Maintenance and Improvement of Skills and Knowledge"as one of their canons. Likewise, the National

Council on Interpreting in Health Care (NCIHC) includes "Professional Development"as one of their standards of practice.

Some ways that interpreters can engage in maintaining and developing their skill set include:

 - attending conferences or skill-building workshops

 - taking part in professional training or continuing education

 - studying  terminology related to their field

 - keeping abreast of the latest developments in the industry

 - self-practice

Check out the video below to get a better sense of how an interpreter should seek to develop themselves professionally.