Interviewing a Deaf Person

When interviewing a deaf person there are a few things to keep in mind:

With all deaf people:
get the deaf person's attention before starting your communication maintain eye contact throughout the communication use gestures and visual aids that are relevant to your discussion write down important details check that you are being understood as you go

With those who prefer to lip-read

speak clearly but do not exaggerate mouth movements
make sure the deaf person can see your face clearly, especially your mouth
try to keep your hands away from your face, even when using gestures
use simple sentences.avoid idioms and messages with double meanings
if the deaf person doesn't understand, try other words and other ways to get your message across rather than repeating yourself

A deaf person's speech, if they speak at all, will vary depending on the level of their deafness, the age of onset of deafness, their education and training in speech, their confidence in using speech and the familiarity of the topic you are discussing.

When using an interpreter

Working with a sign language interpreter is not difficult but it does take a little practice and knowledge. To see some basic points that will assist you, click here.

Introductions: Some deaf clients will introduce themselves and the interpreter to you. However if they don't, introduce yourself to both parties.

Seating arrangements: Seating arrangements are important – poor visual lines can interfere with smooth communication. If the deaf client or interpreter does not request a particular seating arrangement, ask them what arrangement they prefer.

The typical arrangement is for the interpreter to sit next to the Interviewer, with the deaf client directly opposite. This means the deaf person can see both the interviewer and the interpreter – allowing them to see your facial expression and body language, and the interpreter's signs.

The role of the interpreter: The role of the interpreter is to facilitate communication – they cannot assess the deaf client for you. Remember that the interpreter is ethically obliged to interpret all communication, so do not make asides you do not wish to be interpreted.

Talk directly to the deaf client. For example say “So John, how are you?” rather than “Could you please ask John to tell me how he is?” or “How is John?”. Look at the deaf client when you are speaking to them. Sometimes this may feel a little unnatural, as the deaf client may be looking at the interpreter; however, it assists in developing a rapport with your client.

Speaking speed: Speak at a normal pace in your normal voice – there is no need to talk slower or louder. Interpreters will usually let you know if they are having difficulties keeping up or do not understand what you are saying.

Lag time: Allow for lag time in the deaf client's response as the interpreter interprets from your spoken English into Auslan, and then the client's Auslan into spoken English. Sometimes the interpreter will wait until you or the client finishes 'a turn' before commencing interpreting.

Referring to materials: If you refer to a document, or the computer screen, bear in mind that it is impossible for the deaf client to watch the interpreter and look at the materials at the same time. Allow time for the deaf client to watch the interpreter, and then look at the document/screen or notes.

What If…

I don't understand the interpreter?
Ask them to repeat, slow down or use another sign / word. It is the interpreter's responsibility to ensure effective communication.

I don't understand the question?
Ask the person you are interviewing to repeat the question or give an example of what they mean.

The interpreter is late?
Ask the receptionist to call the interpreting booking agency to find out what's happened.

I really liked / didn't like the interpreter?
You can tell the interpreting booking officer how you feel about the interpreter.

The Deaf Society's Employment Service can help you prepare for interviewing a deaf candidate. To see contact details for the Employment Service, click here.

A deaf job seeker or employee may receive Auslan (Australian Sign Language) interpreting assistance for employment interviews through the Auslan for Employment (AFE) Program. For more information about this program, click here.

To see information about the Deaf Society's Interpreting Service, click here.

More information

Click for more information about: