One of the most crucial operations for any business is the hiring of new employees.
As a result, businesses are constantly looking for new approaches to broaden the diversity of their workforce.
This is not only the right course of action, but it also makes available a pool of talented applicants who might otherwise have gone unnoticed.
The provision of American Sign Language (ASL) interpreting services for applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing is an essential component of achieving this goal.
Removing Barriers
For those who are deaf or hard of hearing, removing barriers is the first and most obvious advantage of providing ASL interpretation services.
Employers can make the hiring process more welcoming and accommodating for all candidates by having a qualified interpreter on hand.
For those who may have previously encountered discrimination or had trouble finding work, this may come as a relief.
Compared to 72% of people without disabilities, only 48% of deaf and hard of hearing people hold a job, according to the National Deaf Center on Postsecondary Outcomes.
A number of things, including the absence of accommodations during the hiring process, can be blamed for this sizeable gap.
Additionally, providing ASL interpreting services can level the playing field for candidates who are hard of hearing or deaf.
These applicants might find it difficult to comprehend questions or convey answers that accurately reflect their abilities without an interpreter.
All applicants can participate fully in the hiring process if an interpreter is made available.
This guarantees that applicants are judged on their abilities and skills rather than their disability.
Building an Inclusive Workplace
The process of providing ASL interpreting services extends beyond the hiring process. Overall, it contributes to a more inclusive workplace.
Employers can convey a message of inclusivity and value to all employees by demonstrating a commitment to diversity and providing accommodations for people with disabilities.
The morale of all employees, not just those who are deaf or hard of hearing, can be raised by this.
Employees are more engaged and motivated at work when they perceive their employer to value diversity and inclusivity.
Additionally, having an interpreter present at meetings or other work-related gatherings guarantees that all participants can participate and comprehend the conversation.
This lessens misunderstandings or miscommunications brought on by language barriers.
Additionally, it promotes an atmosphere of respect and understanding between people.
Expanding the Talent Pool
ASL interpreting services can increase a company’s talent pool.
Deaf and hard of hearing people are often highly skilled and talented, but they may be overlooked due to a lack of accommodations during the hiring process.
A company can access a pool of candidates with distinctive abilities and perspectives by providing ASL interpreting services.
Companies in sectors where certain expertise or knowledge is in high demand may find this to their advantage.
A tech company might, for instance, need a software engineer with knowledge of a particular programming language.
By providing ASL interpreting services, they may be able to reach a highly skilled deaf candidate with expertise in that programming language who would have been overlooked without the accommodations.
Furthermore, studies have shown that diverse teams are more creative and effective.
Employers can broaden their workforce diversity and boost productivity by hiring deaf and hard of hearing people.
Building a Positive Reputation
providing ASL interpreting services can help a business gain a good reputation.
Consumers and employees alike are becoming more and more concerned with diversity, equity, and inclusivity in today’s world.
A business establishes itself as a pioneer in these fields by demonstrating a dedication to accommodating people with disabilities.
This is especially advantageous for businesses looking to hire a more youthful and diverse workforce.
The concerns of social justice are frequently on the minds of millennial and Generation Z workers, and they favor employers who share these values.
A business can show that they value diversity and inclusivity and are dedicated to fostering an environment where everyone can thrive by providing ASL interpreting services.
Legal Requirements
The provision of ASL interpreting services may be required by law in some situations, in addition to the advantages mentioned above.
Employers are required to make “reasonable accommodations” for applicants and workers with disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
This includes providing ASL interpreting services during the hiring process if effective communication is to be achieved.
A company may face legal repercussions for failing to make reasonable accommodations.
Companies can comply with the law and avert potential legal problems by providing ASL interpreting services.
Finding ASL Interpreting Services
Finding qualified ASL interpreters can be difficult.
Finding interpreters who are qualified and have experience doing so in a business environment is crucial.
Companies can collaborate with interpreting services or individual interpreters to offer services during the application or hiring process or at the workplace.
Additionally, some businesses might decide to provide ASL interpreting training to their own staff.
This can be a cost-effective solution, but employees must be properly trained and certified in order to provide accurate and effective interpreting services.
Conclusion
One easy but powerful way to promote diversity and inclusivity in the workplace is to offer ASL interpreting services.
Employers can foster a more welcoming and accommodating workplace by removing obstacles for candidates who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Additionally, it increases the talent pool and develops a more creative and effective workforce.
Beyond the hiring process, providing ASL interpreting services fosters a more welcoming workplace and raises employee satisfaction.
It can enhance a company’s reputation, particularly among younger, more diverse employees.
Additionally, it could be a legal requirement under the ADA.
Overall, providing ASL interpreting services benefits both job seekers and employers.
It’s an investment in diversity and inclusion that pays off in a variety of ways, including a more skilled and talented workforce, improved performance, and a positive reputation.
Companies can create a truly welcoming workplace for all by making this simple yet powerful change.
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 Antoni Shkraba
