Wednesday, January 4, 2012

Sign Language Interpreter--What to expect?

Using a Sign Language interpreter may seem to be an awkward experience. "What do I expect?" "What is expected of me?" "Do I need to speak slower than usual?" "What do I do?" This blog will answer some basic questions.

First of all, professional standard is to have the interpreter arrive approx 10-15 mins prior to the assignment. This time is for the interpreter to prepare for the assignment (spelling of names, obtaining an agenda, locating the room of the event, etc).

Professional standard dictates the interpreter to wear a solid, color of clothing that contrasts with their skin color. The reason is that the clothing acts as a backdrop for the visual communication.

The Standard Practice Paper, Professional Sign Language Interpreting states, "...the interpreter sits in proximity to the.... speaker to allow the deaf person to see the interpreter as well as the facial and body expressions of the English speaker." This is a very different than spoken language interpreters/translators.

During the interpreting process, there is no need to exaggerate or slow down a person's normal way of speaking. This is a misnomer. There are times when the interpreter may ask for a restatement of what was said; but again, in most circumstances, the speaker does not need to change the way they normally speak.

Because of the introduction of a third person (the interpreter), it is very easy to slip into speaking ABOUT the deaf person in third person. "Please tell HIM that we are about to start the interview." "Can you tell HER that we will refund her money." These can be avoided by looking the deaf individual in the eye (as opposed to looking at the interpreter) and addressing the person directly ("Mr. Jones, we are about to start the interview," "Jane, we will have to refund your money.")

This interaction is going through an interpreted process. You may have to give some time after asking a question or before conclude your interactions. This is to assure the process of interpreting/translating has been accomplished.

Many interpreters are Generalist, but we also have interpreters that specialize in: medical, legal, performing (concerts, plays, etc.), educational, and conventions/conferences.

What is put forth in this post is not the end all or be all. This is not "Working With an Interpreter 101." This post is not to be a standard. This post is only to give an idea of what may be expected when working with professional and/or certified interpreters.

For more information on our professional entity, please go to www.rid.org. This is the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf website. Here you can find our Standard Practice Papers and even locate Sign Language interpreters in your area.

Please feel free to contact me at 301.KIS.3433 0r 301.547.3433 for more info. You can also send an email to kisinterpreting@gmail.com.


Next blog: What if the person is deaf-blind?

Thank you!