Tips For Working With
Sign Language Interpreters
Tips for working with Interpreters
and Deaf Participants

Meet with the interpreter beforehand.
Arrange for placement, lighting and other needs that may arise. Provide the Interpreter with any written material or information about the upcoming event. Names, technical terms, spelling, acronyms, and unique vocabulary should be addressed at this time.

Reserve seats for the Deaf.

An Interpreter should be in the consumer’s line of sight with the presenter/s.
This allows deaf participants to pick up visual cues and the expressions of the speaker. In small group discussions, consider using a circle or semi-circle seating arrangement instead of a theater style arrangement. This allows the participant to know whom is speaking, and respond appropriately.

Be aware of lighting and sound factors.
The interpreter’s hands and face must be seen. If lights will be turned off or dimmed, provide a small lamp or spotlight. The interpreter must be able to hear clearly. Consider sound amplifiers.

Talk directly to the Deaf person.
Look at the Deaf person while communicating. Avoid directing comments to the interpreter (e.g. “Tell him...” or “Ask her…”). Respond directly to the Deaf person (e.g. “You…” or “your…”) and do not involve the interpreter in your discussions during the assignment. The interpreter should be as “invisible” as possible.

Speak naturally and at your normal pace.
Interpreters will ask you to slow down or repeat if it becomes necessary. Interpreters listen for concepts and ideas, not just words, to render an accurate interpretation. And interpreter will be a bit behind the signed or spoken word to allow time to mentally process meaning before responding.

Avoid private conversations, or asides—everything will be interpreted.
Whatever the interpreter hears or sees should be interpreted. Please do not ask the interpreter to censor or omit any portion of the conversation. If you need to communicate privately, do so away from the interpreter.

One person should speak or sign at a time.
An interpreter can only process one input at a time. Encourage the group to speak one at a time. When having a group discussion, pause before recognizing the next speaker. This allows the interpreter to “catch-up”.

Avoid asking the interpreter for opinions or comments regarding the meeting.
An interpreter’s Code of Ethics requires them to be impartial and maintain confidentiality at all times.

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