Working with a Sign Language Interpreter

Ethics of Interpreting

• Professional interpreters have a strict Code of Professional Conduct.
• All interpreted information is confidential
• The interpreter cannot interject or advise their personal opinion

Helpful Hints

• Speak in the first person.  Avoid such phrases as “Tell her” and “Explain to him.”
• Look at the person when signing/speaking to them through an interpreter.
• Be aware that the interpreter must interpret everything said.  Avoid discussing subjects you do not wish the Deaf client to know.
• Speak in your normal tone, at your normal pace.  The interpreter will tell you if you need to pause or slow down.
• When possible, please share any notes, outlines, or handouts with the interpreter in advance.
• Be aware that the interpreter will try to position her/himself next to you, so that the Deaf client may benefit from eye contact from you and the Interpreter.
• Over the years, the hearing majority has attached many labels to the deaf and hard-of-hearing: deaf and dumb, deaf-mute, hearing-impaired, hearing-disabled, and many others. These labels are sometimes inaccurate and often demeaning, and are largely rejected by the very communities whom they supposedly describe.

The terms “Deaf” and “Hard-of-hearing” were chosen by the members of those communities, and should be used in preference to other labels created by hearing culture.