Working with interpreters and deaf people is new to many people. The process is very simple and nothing to be concerned about. Some basic information is below to provide a starting point and to offer a few tips so you know what to expect.

Please read Using an Interpreter and Do's and Don'ts of Working with a Deaf individual before your appointment.

For more information, visit the Frequently Asked Questions page.

Using an Interpreter

• Speak directly to the Deaf individual.
• Speak in the first person. Avoid such phrases as "Tell her" and "Ask him."
• In most cases, the interpreter will try to position himself/herself next to you so that the Deaf individual may benefit from your non-verbal cues.
• It works best to speak in your normal tone and pace. The interpreter will tell you if you need to pause or slow down.
• When reading extensively from written materials or using a power point presentation, consider supplying a copy to the Deaf individual. When this is not possible, be aware of the pace of your speech.
• When distributing agendas, outlines, or other instructional materials to be referenced during a presentation, offer one to the interpreter as well.
• Obtain captioned versions of videotapes to be shown.
• Maintain enough light for the interpreter to be seen during presentations.
• Whenever possible, make presentation materials available to the interpreter before the event, so that he/she may become familiar with the terminology.
• Please be aware that the interpreter must interpret everything said. Avoid discussing subjects with the interpreter you do not wish the Deaf individual to know.
• When out of the presence of the Deaf individual, avoid giving messages to the interpreter for later relay to the Deaf individual.
• Try to avoid personal conversations with the interpreter during the professional situation.
• Feel free to correct, agree with, bring back to subject, or give any other feedback to the Deaf individual, as you would a hearing client in the same situation.
• The interpreter will not share personal opinions regarding the Deaf individual.

Do's and Don'ts of Working with a Deaf Individual

“Do's”

• Ask the Deaf individual directly what is the best way to interact and communicate with them.
• If you must use pen and paper initially, use short, simple sentences.
• Remember, the deaf individual may not read well in English and may not have perfectly correct grammar.
• Position yourself 3-6 feet from the person.
• Convey your willingness to communicate, and include the Deaf individual in the conversation.
• Give clues to the person about your topic, especially as the subject of the conversation changes.
• Be aware of your facial expressions, eye gaze, etc. as well as the Deaf individual’s.
• Use appropriate gestures and facial expressions and speak at your normal rate.
• Repeat yourself if necessary, and use simple-to-understand language.
• Allow for more time in the communication process; you are crossing several language barriers.
• Be friendly; they merit the same respect as anyone else.
• Look directly at the person, keeping your hands and face toward the Deaf individual you are speaking with, even when they are looking at an interpreter.
  

“Don'ts”

• Don’t underestimate a person’s intelligence based on their inability to communicate directly.
• Don’t assume communication is occurring correctly - nodding doesn’t mean “I understand.”
• Don’t pretend to understand if you don’t. Ask for clarification if you need it.
• Don’t exaggerate your words, mouth movements, or yell.
• Don’t have objects in your mouth, or cover your mouth while speaking.
• Don’t repeat the same word if there is difficulty understanding it. Use a synonym.
• Don’t speak to a Deaf individual with your back to a strong light, bright window or shiny mirror.
• Don’t refer to Deaf people in the third person as if they weren’t present, e.g.“Tell them...” or “Ask them...”
• Don’t tell the interpreter, “Don’t say this to the Deaf individual…”
• Don’t discuss something you don’t want “heard”. Wait until the Deaf individual leaves.