Disability Etiquette Handbook

Interviewing Courtesies
for Effective Communication

Interviewers need to know whether or not the job site is accessible and should be prepared to answer accessibility-related questions.

Interviewing a person using Mobility Aids
Interviewing a person with Vision Impairments
Interviewing a person with Speech Impairments
Interviewing a person who is Deaf or Hearing Impaired

Interviewing a person using Mobility Aids

Enable people who use crutches, canes or wheelchairs to keep them within reach.

Be aware that some wheelchair users may choose to transfer themselves out of their wheelchairs (into an office chair, for example) for the duration of the interview.

Here again, when speaking to a person in a wheelchair or on crutches for more than a few minutes, sit in a chair. Place yourself at that person's eye level to facilitate conversation.

Interviewing a person with Vision Impairments

When greeting a person with a vision impairment always identify yourself and introduce anyone else who might be present.

If the person does not extend their hand to shake hands, verbally extend a welcome.

EXAMPLE: Welcome to the City of San Antonio Planning Department, Disability Access Office.

When offering seating, place the person's hand on the back or arm of the seat. A verbal cue is helpful as well.

Let the person know if you move or need to end the conversation.

Allow people who use crutches, canes or wheelchairs to keep them within reach.

Interviewing a person with Speech Impairments

Give your whole attention with interest when talking to a person who has a speech impairment.

Ask short questions that require short answers or a nod of the head.

Do not pretend to understand if you do not. Try rephrasing what you wish to communicate, or ask the person to repeat what you do not understand.

Do not raise your voice. Most speech impaired persons can hear and understand.

Interview a person who is Deaf or Hearing Impaired

If you need to attract the attention of a person who is deaf or hearing impaired, touch him or her lightly on the shoulder.

If the interviewee lip-reads, look directly at him or her. Speak clearly at a normal pace. Do not exaggerate your lip movements or shout. Speak expressively because the person will rely on your facial expressions, gestures and eye contact. (Note: It is estimated that only four out of ten spoken words are visible on the lips.)

Place yourself placing the light source and keep your hands, cigarettes and food away from your mouth when speaking.

Shouting does not help and can be detrimental. Only raise your voice when requested. Brief, concise written notes may be helpful.

In the United States most deaf people use American Sign Language (ASL.) ASL is not a universal language. ASL is a language with its own syntax and grammatical structure. When scheduling an interpreter for a non-English speaking person, be certain to retain an interpreter that speaks and interprets in the language of the person.

If an interpreter is present, it is commonplace for the interpreter to be seated beside the interviewer, across from the interviewee.

Interpreters facilitate communication. They should not be consulted or regarded as a reference for the interview.

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