Advice on using a Sign Language Interpreter

  • Look at the person when signing/speaking to them through an interpreter.
  • Look at the person who is signing/speaking to you. This may feel awkward at first since the message is coming through your interpreter.
  • Address the person directly: 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. Be aware of 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.