Interpreters will take into consideration a number of factors to decide if they are qualified for the job, including their credentials, years of interpreting experience, familiarity with the content and participants, and the composition of the interpreting team.

Interpreter credentials include:

• The Certificate of Interpretation (COI). CASLI is the only association that certifies ASL - English interpreters in Canada. The Certificate of Interpretation is granted on the successful completion of a written test of knowledge, professional development workshops and a skills test.

• Graduation from an accredited Interpreter Education Program is a minimum requirement for entry to the field.

• The Canadian Association of Sign Language Interpreters (CASLI) membership in itself is not a credential but does demonstrate that an interpreter has graduated from a recognized interpreter education program. Members are obliged to adhere to the Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Professional Conduct .

• There are a number of agencies or employers that have a screening process for interpreters joining their roster of freelance interpreters. These include: The Translation Bureau of the Canadian Government, the Ministry of the Attorney General and various interpreting referral agencies. Any screenings, assessments, and designations apply only to the agency or organization that administers them.

Interpreters can be contacted in a number of ways. Deaf people often have lists of their preferred interpreters, so that is the best place to start. Many organizations that frequently book interpreters maintain a list of interpreters that become familiar with the needs of the organization. Also, CASLI has a directory that includes member’s experience and qualifications.

Most events longer than an hour or so will require a team of 2 interpreters. Full days may require a team of 3.

Once you have contacted interpreters they will need some information to determine if they are appropriately qualified.

They will assist you in determining what kind of preparation materials will be needed to ensure that the team is adequately prepared to provide effective services. This can include: an agenda, slide decks, names of participants, briefing documents, audio/visual materials or past meeting minutes.

Since COVID 19, many people have become accustomed to working remotely. ASL interpreters are no exception. Remote services are optimal when everyone is connecting remotely. When the Deaf and hearing participants are gathered in-person, it may be preferable to arrange for in-person interpreting services.

Many online events can be effectively served with remote interpreting if the right conditions are in place.

Here are some tips:

• provide interpreting team with preparation material in advance (slide decks, speaker notes, audio/video materials etc)

• inform interpreting team what platform you will be using and how you plan to integrate the interpreters’ videos

• have a designated person responsible for tech on the day to coordinate with the interpreting team and troubleshoot problems

Because most ASL-English interpreters are not native ASL users, it is sometimes important to work with Deaf Interpreters (DI) on the team.

DIs are professional interpreters who bring to the team a combination of language fluency and flexibility, lived experience, and interpreting skills and training. By working together, ASL interpreters and DIs can ensure that communication is clear, comfortable and accessible for a range of settings and language needs.