Consider whether the nature of the interview makes it important for the client and interpreter to be separated if required to wait before a session. Setting up For spoken languages, an interpreter should be positioned in front of you and the client. It is preferable to use a triangle arrangement, as below. For Auslan interpreters, the interpreter should be seated beside you so that the client can see both you and the interpreter. For Deaf relay interpreters, the following seating arrangement should be used: During the session If the client(s) has not used an interpreter before, begin by explaining the role of the interpreter and how the session will be conducted. Stress that the role is only to convey information and that they must interpreter’s adhere to strict confidentiality requirements. Face the client and not the interpreter. Avoid speaking to the interpreter and excluding the client/s. Direct all questions to the client/s and not to the interpreter. For example, can I help not say ‘How you?’ can I help ‘How him/her?’ Be helpful to the interpreter—for example, some terms may be difficult to interpret and may need clarification. Use simple language and avoid using colloquialisms, idioms, technical language and acronyms. Give the client/s an opportunity to provide feedback to ensure that the pace is appropriate and that the interpreter or client/s can seek clarification if necessary. Give adequate time to the interpreter: speak in short, concise sentences. Provide frequent pauses between sentences—give three or four sentences at a time to enable the interpreter to adequately remember, convey and interpret what was said. Provide regular breaks in the session—it is recommended that breaks are offered every 15–25 minutes for Auslan interpreters and every 20 minutes for others.
Consider whether the nature of the interview makes it important for the client and interpreter to be separated if required to wait before a session. Setting up For spoken languages, an interpreter should be positioned in front of you and the client. It is preferable to use a triangle arrangement, as below. For Auslan interpreters, the interpreter should be seated beside you so that the client can see both you and the interpreter. For Deaf relay interpreters, the following seating arrangement should be used: During the session If the client(s) has not used an interpreter before, begin by explaining the role of the interpreter and how the session will be conducted. Stress that the interpreter’s role is only to convey information and that they must adhere to strict confidentiality requirements. Face the client and not the interpreter. Avoid speaking to the interpreter and excluding the client/s. Direct all questions to the client/s and not to the interpreter. For example, say ‘How can I help you?’ not ‘How can I help him/her?’ Be helpful to the interpreter—for example, some terms may be difficult to interpret and may need clarification. Use simple language and avoid using colloquialisms, idioms, technical language and acronyms. Give the client/s an opportunity to provide feedback to ensure that the pace is appropriate and that the interpreter or client/s can seek clarification if necessary. Give adequate time to the interpreter: speak in short, concise sentences. Provide frequent pauses between sentences—give three or four sentences at a time to enable the interpreter to adequately remember, convey and interpret what was said. Provide regular breaks in the session—it is recommended that breaks are offered every 15–25 minutes for Auslan interpreters and every 20 minutes for others.