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.
