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 USING AN INTERPRETER DO Speak directly to the deaf person in the first person. Allow the interpreter(s) to stand or sit close to the speaker so the deaf person has an optimal view of both. Make eye contact with and interact with the deaf person, realizing what the interpreter voices is what the deaf person is communicating. - Speak at a normal rate of speed, clarity, and volume.
- Be aware everything said will be interpreted and everything signed will be voiced.
- Hire a qualified interpreter. Deaf people have a legal right to such services.
- Be patient while the message is conveyed. Due to the interpretation, the deaf person's comments may be slightly delayed.
- Provide materials to the agency ahead of time, or to the interpreter before the assignment begins, if at all possible. This allows interpreters to become familiar with the topic and its vocabulary.
- Ask that only one person speak at a time. This reduces confusion and lost information.
- Please give the agency feedback, whether good or bad.
- Feel comfortable in requesting a specific interpreter for future assignments, especially if the interpreter is a good match to the setting, by calling or emailing our office staff.
DO NOT Address the interpreter by saying: Tell her, What did he say, etc. Stand between the interpreter & the deaf person (pacing between them is no problem until you stop in the middle). - Ask for the interpreter's opinion, input or otherwise engage the interpreter in conversation.
- Over annunciate your words or speak loudly, as both hinder clear communication.
- Tell the interpreter not to interpret something. S/he is obligated to interpret everything.
- Utilize an employee, family member or friend who 'knows sign language' as an interpreter. Interpreters are required by law to be licensed and certified by the state of Missouri.
- Cut the deaf person off or assume they have no response by moving on to the next thing before they reply.
- Expect the interpreter to always interpret what is on the hand-outs. Some deaf people prefer to read it on their own if the speaker is reading verbatim.
- Become frustrated when people speak over each other. The interpreter will let the deaf person know, and it is up to them to ask for missed information.
- Continue to use an interpreter that is not satisfactory without bringing concerns to our attention.
- Ask the interpreter about other assignments or business outside of the agency, as this puts the interpreter in an unethical situation.
ShowOfHandsInterpreting@yahoo.com PO Box 892 Florissant MO 63032 314.393.4922 (voice/text) ©Show Of Hands, LLC 2007-2010
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