Tips for Using Sign Language Interpreters

General / Important Information

• While it may be a new experience for you, the first thing you need to do is relax. Speak in a natural speed and tone of voice. While it may seem odd at first to be communicating through a third person, the process works best if you try to communicate directly to the Deaf person speaking to them as you would anyone else.  Try to maintain eye contact as much as possible.

• Interpreters have the responsibility to do their best to interpret all communication.  If there is anything you do not wish the Deaf or Hard of Hearing person to know, it is best to take that communication outside of the room or setting.  The same is true if the Deaf or Hard of Hearing person is signing it is expected that the interpreter will interpret everything they are saying.

• Interpreters will keep all information confidential. This includes information they may know about the client from other interpreting settings.  It is best not to ask the interpreter about the Deaf consumer.  Ask the Deaf person directly and the interpreter will be happy to facilitate the communication.

• Do not engage the interpreter in conversation while they are actively interpreting.

• Before the interpreting begins, you can solicit the interpreter’s input as to the best location for the interpreter to be in relation to the other parties involved in the communication.

• There is typically lag time between a speaker and the interpretation. As a result, responses and questions from Deaf participants may be slightly delayed. Interpreters may need to ask you or the Deaf person for clarification on key points. Allowing this to happen enables the interpreters to do their job well.

Before the Interaction

• Inform the interpreter of any special audiovisual equipment or technology that may be used.

• Sufficient lighting should be used at all times so the interpreter is clearly visible.

• Be aware that Sign Language is not a word-for-word rendition of English. American Sign Language (ASL) is a unique language with its own syntax and grammar.

• Sign Language does not always have specific signs for specialized or technical words. Often the interpreter will need to fingerspell these words or understand the concept first in order to provide an equivalent sign or interpretation.  Providing any vocabulary lists, agendas, or handouts to the interpreters will help for a more successful and accurate interpretation.

During the Interaction

• Avoid walking between the interpreter and the deaf person(s) if possible.

• Speak distinctly and at a comfortable volume and pace.

• Speak one at a time in group situations. When people are “talking over” each other it is not possible to provide a successful interpretation.  Choose one person to facilitate group discussion and monitor that people are speaking one at a time.  As the interpreter is often slightly behind the conversation it can be difficult for the Deaf consumer to give their input without seeming to interrupt the flow of natural turn taking.  Be sensitive to their ability to be part of the conversation.

• In group situations, time is needed for the Deaf participant(s) to look to see who is talking before the comments are interpreted.

• Avoid words such as “this” or “that” when referring to something being demonstrated. As the deaf person’s eyes are focused on the interpreter by the time they look at what you are referring to they will have missed it. Instead, identify objects by name(s).

• If you are referring to written material or using visual aids, allow each member adequate time to review the written material before beginning the discussion. This allows time for a shift of attention from the visual aid to the interpreter.

• If it is a voting situation, please raise your hand to signify your vote so that all members of the committee can see the position each member of the committee is taking. Adequate time should be allowed between, “aye”, “no” and “abstentions” so that each member of the committee has time to vote and to participate in the discussion

Team Interpreting

• Interpreting assignments one hour or longer in length with continuous interpreting, will require the use of a team of two interpreters. The teaming allows the interpreters to switch roles every 15-20 minutes.  Teaming will reduce physical strain, prevent repetitive strain injury, and prevent mental fatigue which can cause the quality of the interpreting to deteriorate.  In the event a team has not been provided, take a 10 to 15 minute break before continuing.