Scheduling the Interview
- When setting up the interview, ask the candidate how he or she will prefer to communicate during the interview.
- Ask if applicant would like to have a sign language interpreter present.
Preparing for the Interview
- Inform the receptionist that you are expecting a deaf or hard-of-hearing candidate.
- Find a location with good lighting.
- Have a written itinerary and company literature available.
- Provide a list of the standard interview questions.
Interviewing with an Interpreter
- Position the interpreter next to the interviewer so the candidate can easily see both individuals.
- Clarify whether the candidate will speak for himself or herself, or whether the interpreter will voice what the candidate signs.
- Make eye contact with the candidate.
- Address your questions directly to the candidate, not the interpreter.
- For more information on working with an interpreter, click here.
Interviewing Without an Interpreter
- Speak clearly and slowly.
- Use body language and facial expressions.
- Maintain eye contact.
- Encourage the deaf individual to let you know if your communication is unclear.
- Rephrase things if necessary.
- Ask open-ended questions.
- Use paper and pencil if necessary.
- Keep objects away from your mouth.
- Ask to see the candidate's portfolio.
- Ask the candidate to demonstrate his or her skills during the interview by operating a piece of equipment or software application, etc.
