RIT - NTID - Center on Employment - Employers

Ask deaf or hard-of-hearing employees how they prefer to communicate (e-mail, instant messaging, speechreading, writing, demonstration, etc.).
Maintain eye contact.
Clearly explain the topic of the conversation and do so again when the topic changes.
Encourage deaf or hard-of-hearing employees to ask questions if communication is unclear.
Make sure that you ask questions if communication is unclear.
Be prepared to repeat and rephrase information.
Have pencil and paper available and use them if necessary.
Ask deaf or hard-of-hearing employees to review key points of the conversation to ensure understanding.
Reduce environmental distractions, such as background noise and movement.
Position yourself in appropriate lighting so that your speaking and/or signs can be seen.