Sign language interpreters are trained individuals who assist hearing-impaired individuals to understand a spoken language through hand gestures. Working as one will require you to clear the interview stage.
Here is a set of interview questions and answers for Sign Language Interpreter position:
1. Why did you decide to work as a sign language interpreter?
My decision to work as a sign language interpreter stems from the time that I volunteered my services at an institute for special needs children. I was assigned to an area where hard of hearing students were enrolled. One thing led to another, and I realized my potential in this area. And that is when I decided to take this up as my life’s work.
2. What duties have you performed in the role of a sign language interpreter?
I have performed a wide array of tasks in this role, including providing interpreters and transliteration services using sign language. Establishing and maintaining excellent relationships with students is a part of my work. Also, I was responsible for appraising students’ communication skills and responding to student difficulties and concerns.
Apart from that, I have been collecting and correlating materials used in classrooms and preparing resources for students.
3. What is the one skill that you depend highly on?
I am a compassionate individual, which makes it easy for me to reach out to students. I believe that this skill is something that I depend highly on, as it has helped me many times.
4. How do you handle emotional attachment with your students?
When I first began working as a sign language interpreter, handling my emotional connection with students was quite an issue. Slowly, I realized that emotional attachment often harms them more than helping them. In due time, I trained myself to remain patient, kind, and compassionate, but to detach myself emotionally.
5. Do you feel that working as a sign language interpreter is worth the effort that one puts in? Why or why not?
I feel that working as a sign language interpreter is definitely worth all the effort one puts in. This is because the consequence is pure satisfaction. You are helping someone communicate, and feel comfortable with themselves. What can be a better achievement than that?
6. What has been your biggest accomplishment so far?
I am of the opinion that all my accomplishments have been big. The fact that I have successfully taught sign language to so many students, and have helped in a corporate capacity is a great achievement for me.