I need to hire some professionals, but it appears that due to language difficulties I must use an interpreter. I just realized now the reason why potential interpreters are so interested in what the independent contracters will be paid. It's not for communication purposes. It is for business purposes. Anything I pay them will be gravy. Their bread and butter will be from doing it Asian style, taking fees from both ends, but especially the talent. This was a big problem with the last Thai intermediary who took the lion's share, and without telling me. So, the solution is either do it western style, warning them that if they are caught double dipping they won't be paid at all (this is bound to fail, perhaps even if I pay handsomely). Or, eastern style, just accept that they will do it the Asian way and don't feel bad about whatever business transpires between the professionals and the interpreter, who will be in the role of a go-between more than interpreter. And knowing this, pay them less.

Still annoys me though.

what are you talking about? professional what? architects/builders/ graphic artists/ musicians?? If you want help ,help us to help you. There are many professionals who speak English, depends on what you are looking for

If you're looking for professionals, you're looking in all the wrong places in Bangkok. The word "professional" doesn't exist in the Thai language. Pack up and go to Singapore instead. Good luck!

Is there a question in there somewhere or just an announcement that you've figured out how consulting works and it annoys you.