Sign Language Interpreters enjoy an exciting career that can help them derive a sense of value. The job of an ASL interpreter has become a highly sought-after one due to the dynamic nature of work. Getting to work and interacting with numerous people, immersing yourself in different cultures, creating an impact, and having the ability to work in various settings are only some of the benefits of working as an ASL interpreter.
However, becoming a professional interpreter is just one part of the process. Considering the delicate nature of the work and the meaning that it holds for an entire community, there are certain ethics that ASL interpreters need to abide by. These codes of conduct have been laid down by The National Association of the Deaf (NAD) and the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf Inc. (RID).
Official Code of Professional Conduct
Previously known as the Code of Ethics, the Code of Professional Conduct serves as guiding principles that dictate professional behavior. This official code of conduct includes 7 tenets in total. These tenets must be viewed holistically. This guideline also includes illustrative behaviors which are not exhaustive in nature. All interpreter roles and responsibilities are covered under the Code of Professional Conduct. An ASL interpreter– whether a medical, educational, legal or any other interpreter– must use these.
According to these tenets, a professional ASL interpreter should:
- Maintain standards of confidentiality
- Possess the professional knowledge and skills that are essential for carrying out the work
- Maintain proper conduct and behave in accordance with the particular interpreting situation
- Behave in a respectful manner with the consumers (people and organizations that are involved in the interpreting situation)
- Behave respectfully with colleagues (other interpreters), interns, and students in the same profession
- Maintain ethical business practices
- Continue to develop professionally
Let’s take a closer look at each of the tenets-
Confidentiality
Consumers entrust the interpreters with a lot of sensitive information. It, thus, becomes the responsibility of the interpreter to uphold that trust as their facilitator of communication. It is imperative to maintain confidentiality in the communication. Different situations may have different standards of confidentiality. Generally, it is expected that the interpreter is able to pick on the nuances of each situation and maintain adequate standards of confidentiality.
Federal and state laws have laid down certain exceptions to such standards of confidentiality. Interpreters are expected to educate themselves about the same.
Professional skills and knowledge
Language keeps evolving over time. It is essential for an interpreter to keep updated with the latest trends in the language. Similarly, an interpreter should also be aware of the changes happening in the profession. ASL interpreters must educate themselves about the deaf culture in America through the latest deafness-related resources.
Conduct
ASL interpreters have to work in dynamic settings. It is important for an interpreter to present themselves in a manner that is fitting to the specific situation- this includes both demeanor and appearance. Doing so can minimize any chances of actual or perceived conflict.
Respect for consumers
While interpreting, an ASL interpreter must keep in mind the personal preferences of the consumer. Consumers may have specific requests about language preference. The interpreting dynamics must be set according to the wish of the consumer, not the interpreter.
Respect for colleagues
All interpreters are expected to behave in a respectful manner with their colleagues. This can help in fostering a collaborative culture that leads to offering effective interpreting services to consumers. An interpreter’s behavior towards their colleagues also affects the way that people view the profession. Therefore, it is best to be mindful of this.
Business practices
Irrespective of whether an interpreter works as a freelancer or in an agency, the profession requires them to display professionalism. This includes accurate representation of certifications and experiences, honoring commitments, and charging a reasonable fee among other things.
Professional development
Lastly, ASL interpreters are expected to continually upskill themselves. By continually honing their skills and developing their knowledge, interpreters can maintain their professional competence. This, in turn, can help them offer better-interpreting services to the consumers.
Applicability of the Code of Conduct
- The code of professional conduct laid down by NAD and RID is applicable to certified and associate members of the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf, Inc., certified members of the National Association of the Deaf, interns, and students of the profession.
- However, this code of conduct can be superseded by any Federal, state, or other statutes or regulations. In case of conflict between the law of the land and the code of conduct, an interpreter must follow the law.
- Both, interpreters that offer face-to-face services and those that offer online/remote services, are expected to follow this.
Conclusion
If you are an ASL interpreter or aspire to become one, be sure to follow these guidelines. You can check out the NAD-RID Code of Professional Conduct to learn more about these guidelines through the illustrative behaviors provided by them. As an ethical interpreter, if you are looking to join an agency that upholds these standards and respects your work, Unspoken Language Services is the place to be. Join our team of talented ASL interpreters to become a part of a close-knit community of like-minded professionals.
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