Communicating Through A Sign Language Interpreter

• Look at the deaf or hard of hearing person when communicating through an interpreter and speak to them directly. This may feel awkward at first since the message is coming through the interpreter.

Appropriate: “What is your date of birth?”

Inappropriate: “Ask him his date of birth.”

• When possible, please share any notes, outlines, or handouts with the interpreter in advance.
• If, during the assignment, you plan to turn down the lights, remember to leave enough lighting on the interpreter.
• The interpreter may ask for specific seating/positioning to facilitate the best viewing angles.
• Speak in your normal tone and at your normal pace. The interpreter will tell you if you need to pause or slow down.
• People sometimes read aloud differently than they typically speak. When reading extensively from written materials, consider supplying a copy to the interpreter and/or deaf person ahead of time. Be aware of your pace when reading aloud.
• Be aware that the interpreter’s role is to relay everything that they hear.
• Relax. If you are unsure of the appropriate way to proceed in a particular situation, just ask.