Every successful company, institution, or organization is built on effective communication.
Unfortunately, conventional forms of communication like speech and hearing are not always efficient when it comes to conversing with those who are deaf or hard of hearing.
This is where interpreters of American Sign Language (ASL) come in.
Using ASL interpreters is a recommended practice for inclusive recruiting and retention methods because it helps to close the communication gap and fosters a workplace that is more inviting and inclusive for those who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Why Hiring ASL Interpreters is Important
It is crucial to employ ASL interpreters so that those who are deaf or hard of hearing can have equitable access to information, services, and opportunities.
Almost 10 million people in the US are deaf or hard of hearing, according to the National Deaf Center on Postsecondary Outcomes.
These people deal with special difficulties in the workplace, such as communication difficulties that may make it difficult for them to access and take part in events.
Organizations may remove these obstacles to communication and foster a more inclusive atmosphere by employing ASL interpreters.
ASL interpreters make it easier for those who are deaf or hard of hearing to communicate with their hearing coworkers, clients, and customers.
This can assist to avoid misunderstandings, guarantee that everyone is informed, and promote a more collaborative and effective work atmosphere.
Employing ASL interpreters can improve an organization’s financial performance in addition to fostering a more inclusive work environment.
The Work Accommodation Network claims that providing reasonable accommodations for those who are deaf or hard of hearing may boost output, enhance job performance, and reduce turnover.
Also, by providing ASL translating services, businesses may comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and save expensive legal disputes.
Best Practices for Hiring ASL Interpreters
There are a few best practices that businesses should adhere to when employing ASL interpreters in order to guarantee that they are providing good communication access for people who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Understand the role of ASL interpreters
Organizations need to know the role of ASL interpreters and how to properly support persons who are deaf or hard of hearing.
ASL interpreters are skilled professionals who assist persons who use sign language and those who do not communicate with one another.
They do not make decisions or offer personal suggestions or opinions on behalf of the deaf or hard-of-hearing individual.
Choose qualified interpreters
When hiring ASL interpreters, businesses should look for those who have received certification from a reputable agency, such as the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID).
Qualified interpreters have shown their proficiency in both ASL and English, as well as their knowledge of deaf culture and the interpreting process.
Provide adequate training and support
To guarantee that ASL interpreters can effectively communicate with people who are deaf or hard of hearing, organizations should offer proper training and assistance.
This may include offering special training on workplace terminology and culture in addition to regular assistance and oversight to make sure that interpreters are fulfilling the demands of all parties concerned.
Be proactive in providing accommodations
Organizations should take the initiative to make accommodations for those who are hard of hearing or deaf.
For meetings, training, and other workplace events, this may entail providing ASL interpreting services. It may also entail making sure that all movies and other multimedia content are captioned.
Foster a culture of inclusion
One step toward fostering a more inclusive workplace atmosphere is to hire ASL interpreters.
Also, organizations should work to promote diversity and equity, offer chances for employees to progress professionally, and aggressively solicit employee feedback from those with disabilities to establish an inclusive culture.
Conclusion
Hiring ASL interpreters is a smart practice for inclusive recruitment and retention methods as it helps to remove communication barriers and makes the workplace more hospitable and inclusive for persons who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Understanding the role of ASL interpreters, choosing qualified interpreters, providing adequate training and support, being proactive in providing accommodations, and cultivating an inclusive culture are all ways that organizations can effectively provide communication access and demonstrate their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
By doing this, firms may access a wider pool of competent candidates, adhere to regulatory standards, and create a workforce that is more dynamic and innovative.
For those who are looking for additional support, Unspoken Language Services offers interpreting services to help bridge the communication gap between the deaf and hearing communities.
Thumbnail Photo Credit to: Photo by fauxels
