The workplace is one space that is constantly evolving. It is constantly going through changes and improvements to keep up with the current times and trends, and to make employees’ experience better. One such addition to modern workplaces is the role of an ASL interpreter. As we move toward a world that upholds the ideals of equality and diversity, the corporate world also continues to undergo significant changes to stay in line with these thoughts.
With a no-discrimination policy dictating recruitment and hiring processes, workplaces are striving toward having a more diverse workforce, which includes deaf and hard-of-hearing people. With the inclusion of the Deaf community into common workplaces, it is time companies start looking at how accessible the workplace is for every employee of theirs.
Most companies have systems that have been built without taking into consideration the Deaf and their needs. To challenge this issue, several companies are now contracting the services of professional ASL interpreters who can make the workplace more accessible for their Deaf employees. These ASL interpreters act as a connecting link between the Deaf employee and their hearing peers.
Need for ASL interpreters in the workforce
Every private employer– funded by the local, state, or federal government– with over 15 employees is legally bound, by the Americans with Disabilities Act, to contract the services of an ASL interpreter or provide other assistance to aid effective communication. This addresses the issue of equal access that is regularly faced by deaf and hard-of-hearing people.
Better talent pool
Restricting the size of the talent pool that you hire from might mean that you are missing out on top talent in the industry, which can include industry professionals from the Deaf community. Hiring the services of an ASL interpreter ensures that your business is ready to effectively hire Deaf talent. You can contract the services of an ASL interpreter right from the hiring stage to ensure that communication during interviews flows smoothly. Seeing the efforts that your company takes to accommodate effective communication can give you an advantage over other companies that the candidate might be interviewing for.
Better work culture
The presence of a professional ASL interpreter creates an open and welcoming space for all employees, not just the Deaf employees. When employees see that the company goes to great lengths to make its employees feel better, it automatically increases the goodwill of your company as an employer.
Besides, an ASL interpreter can reduce feelings of loneliness that deaf employees can feel due to a lack of communication or inclusion. An interpreter acts as a link between the Deaf employee and their colleagues, superiors, and subordinates. Being included in informal conversations, meetings and conferences, and professional discussions can make the Deaf employee feel welcomed at work. Not having to struggle to communicate with the Deaf employee can also improve the morale of other employees. Good camaraderie within the workplace can improve the morale of all employees. This, in turn, can lead to increased productivity and reduced leaves of absence.
Better for business
When you accommodate your deaf and hard-of-hearing employees by hiring an ASL interpreter, you create a welcoming space for the Deaf community. When customers, clients, suppliers, etc start seeing your company as a diverse and accessible workplace, your company’s goodwill increases. With this, many people in the Deaf community, and those outside of it, might start seeing your business in a better light. The simple act of ensuring that your workplace is accessible for your Deaf employees can do wonders for your business, too!
Etiquettes to keep in mind while working with an ASL interpreter
Once you contract the services of an ASL interpreter, there are some basic etiquettes that you could follow to show continual respect for the Deaf employee. Some things to keep in mind-
- Remember to speak to the Deaf employee, and not the ASL interpreter. If there is something that you need to say to the employee, say it to them. Don’t involve the interpreter. The interpreter will do their job and translate it, thus, ensuring a smooth flow of communication.
- To get the Deaf employee’s attention or start a conversation with them, first position yourself in front of them so they can directly see you. Some deaf people might prefer you tap on their shoulder or the table to get their attention, some might not. Instead of assuming, you could simply ask them.
- It is the interpreter’s job to translate everything you say to the Deaf employee. Do not ask or expect the interpreter to leave out some parts or modify them.
- It is advisable to treat the interpreter as a means of easier communication, and not as a participant in the conversation. Having said this, treat the interpreter with respect.
- In case of a meeting or a presentation, if you have prepared notes or any visual material, it could help to give a copy of all the material to the Deaf person. It is often also advised that the ASL interpreter be given a copy of the written material in advance so they can prepare for the meeting and effectively translate things quickly.
Challenge- finding the right ASL interpreters
- Shortage- Professional ASL interpreters are very rare to find. Issues like difficulty progressing in one’s career, and challenging work environment can contribute to this shortage.
- Qualifications- Every interpreter that you find, may not be a professional, and, therefore, may not do an effective job. There are certain certifications that an individual might have to acquire and training they may have to undergo to become a professional interpreter.
- Cultural competency- ASL interpreters must possess certain cultural competencies to be able to do justice to their role. They must be well acquainted with the Deaf community and their culture to be able to sign effectively.
- Experience- Having adequate experience in signing makes all the difference. The more professional experience an ASL interpreter has, the more accurately and effectively they might be able to translate.
Conclusion
It is undeniable that an ASL interpreter can help your business in numerous ways. At the same time, it might also be difficult to find the right interpreter that can effectively do the job. Unspoken Language Services works with certified ASL professionals who are specialized to meet the exact challenges of your business.
Unspoken interpreters offer their services in the following business interpreting settings- Hiring and interviews, board meetings, collaboration and innovation meetings, and private or small team building. Avoid any workplace miscommunication with our interpreters. Contact us today!
Thumbnail Photo Credit to: Photo by Burst
