ASL interpretation is a complex job that requires utmost precision and dedication. As an interpreter, you serve as a medium for communication between the Deaf and the hearing communities. Any error in the process of interpreting can cause miscommunication and may even lead to repercussions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

To become a proficient interpreter, you must strive to be as accurate as you can with your interpretations. The first step toward this is recognizing how you can go wrong.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here are six common mistakes that interpreters make:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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1. Poor communication<\/li>\n\n\n\n
2. Inadequate preparation <\/li>\n\n\n\n
3. Lack of cultural context <\/li>\n\n\n\n
4. Not reading between the lines<\/li>\n\n\n\n
5. Improper or inconsistent tone\/style<\/li>\n\n\n\n
6. Unwillingness to learn<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

    Let\u2019s explore each of these in depth and see how you can avoid making these mistakes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

   Poor communication<\/h1>\n\n\n\n

   Effective communication with the client is the first step to getting an interpretation project right. Before starting any interpreting job, it\u2019s essential to gain clarity about the client\u2019s goals and requirements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

   A common mistake most interpreters make is not acquiring enough information from the client about the project. This communication gap can affect the success of the interpreting job. To avoid this, ask for a proper brief from the client when accepting a new job. Don\u2019t shy away from asking for any details you deem necessary. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

   Inadequate preparation <\/h1>\n\n\n\n

   Interpreters who understand the importance of a client brief might become complacent and make the mistake of solely relying on information provided by the client. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

   Sometimes, the client might provide you with inadequate or incomplete information, thus, requiring you to do your research. Other times, the client might provide you with material that contains everything you need to know before the interpreting job. However, the onus is still on you to carefully read that material and prepare yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

   A lack of preparation can make you stumble while interpreting or slow you down. This can hamper the flow of communication and affect the success of your job. If you don\u2019t want to make this mistake, carefully study the client brief and material, and if you think it\u2019s inadequate, either ask for more clarity or do your research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

   Lack of cultural context<\/h1>\n\n\n\n

   Don\u2019t make the mistake of negating the importance of cultural competency as an ASL interpreter. A key to accurately interpreting lies in gaining awareness about the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community. Like every other community, the Deaf community has idioms, phrases, jokes, sayings, and mannerisms unique to it. Understanding these contextual things is essential for accurate interpretation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

   To become culturally competent, get involved in the Deaf community. Talk to people who use ASL in their everyday life to communicate. You will gain insights into the community and its culture through consistent involvement and interactions, making you a better interpreter.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n