Here are some things to remember when working with a professional interpreter:
Some people with combined hearing and vision loss rely on tactile signing to communicate.
- Make sure that the interpreter that you hire is licensed and certified for the type of situation that you need interpreted. For example, some interpreters have completed additional training to work in medical settings, while others have more experience interpreting in business settings.
- The interpreter should wear solid-colored clothing to minimize distractions and contrasts with his or her skin tone. If the interpreter has a lighter skin tone, he or she should wear a dark color. If the interpreter has darker skin tone, he or she should wear a light color.
- Arrange to spend a few minutes discussing the purpose of the assignment with the interpreter before the interpreting assignment begins. This is a good time to share materials, explain special terms that might be used, etc.
- The interpreter should ask the person who is deafblind where other people should sit so that he or she can see the interpreter best.
- Find a setting with minimal distractions so that the person with combined hearing and vision loss can focus on the interpreter.
- Always speak directly to the individual who has combined hearing and vision loss, not to the interpreter.
- Don’t ask the interpreter to “Tell him (her)…”
- Speak at your normal pace. The interpreter will ask you to slow down or repeat information if necessary.
- Only one person should speak or sign at a time.
- Expect the conversation, meeting, etc. to take more time than a meeting that doesn’t require an interpreter.
- If you expect the meeting to last more than one hour, you may need to request two interpreters. Sign language interpreting can be physically exhausting.
- Don’t treat the interpreter as if he or she is a participant in the meeting or conversation. Don’t ask for his or her opinion. The interpreter is there to act as an objective communications link for the person with combined hearing and vision loss.
- Don’t walk between the interpreter and the person he or she is supporting.