Frequently Asked Questions

With just one email or call to Sharp Eyed Group, we can tap into our pool of  over 35 highly-qualified, certified ASL interpreters  across Indiana. As a Deaf-run, community-based organization, we always carefully match interpreters to the assignments by examining all factors. If the interpreter assigned is unable to show up, we immediately take care of finding a qualified replacement. 

Working with us assures you of quality, reliability, and success. 

Here are a few tips for working with an interpreter:

• Speak directly to the Deaf individual (and look at the individual, instead of watching the interpreter).
• Avoid phrases such as  “tell him” or “explain to her.”
• Speak in your normal voice using a normal tone at your normal pace. The interpreter or deaf individual will let you know if clarification is needed or if something needs to be repeated, just like you can let them know if something needs clarification.
• The interpreter will interpret everything communicated between all parties, so please don’t ask the interpreter to stop interpreting for any reason.
• It is important for the individual who is Deaf or hard of hearing to keep the speaker in their line of sight. The interpreter will often stand or sit next to the speaker for optimal visual access.  

It is very helpful to provide information in advance to allow for review of and familiarity with content. Agendas, written outlines, scripts, music lyrics, PowerPoint presentations, and/or any other preparation materials may be emailed to interpreting@sharpeyedgroup.com. All information will remain confidential.

We recommend that you place your request at least two weeks in advance of the assignment date.  This allows ample time for us to locate and schedule the most qualified interpreter(s) for all parties. Requests submitted with short notice may result in your preferred interpreter(s) being already booked for other assignments.

ASL interpreting requires the physical use of hands and arms. Constant and repetitive motion can be physically taxing with potential development of repetitive stress injury and painful carpal tunnel syndrome. This is why interpreters typically will switch every 20 minutes. 

Additionally, to ensure accurate and effective interpreting, a team of at least two interpreters is necessary to maintain the integrity of the information exchange.   Best practices focus on reducing mental fatigue and potential interpreting errors. 

During a team assignment, both interpreters are actively engaged in the process of interpreting. One actively interprets, while the other monitors the setting for communication issues, provides cues and support to the working interpreter, and performs other duties. 

A two-hour minimum requirement for assignments is the industry standard for translation, interpretation, and captioning service providers. This is a safeguard mechanism that includes travel to and from the assignment, unforeseen situations that may call for an extended period of interpretation/transcription, and unexpected cancellations by the hiring party. 

To avoid being charged for cancelled assignments, Sharp Eyed requires at least 48 hours of advance notice. 

To bring in someone who is a friend, family member, or coworker is inappropriate, especially if the person has never been trained in the highly rigorous profession of interpreting. 

Family members and work colleagues do not meet or satisfy the legal standard of a “qualified interpreter” as defined in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Oftentimes they are nowhere near fluent in ASL. They are untrained to do any interpreting work. Finally, in potentially sensitive and/or emotionally charged situations such as domestic violence, medical settings, law enforcement or emergency interactions, and parent-teacher conferences, it is imperative to have a qualified professional. It can also be traumatizing, especially if the signer is a child, for the family member or friend.

Finally, having family members or other non-trained individuals to do so is an abdication of the legal obligation to provide accommodations. 

Sharp Eyed Group’s ASL interpreters are certified by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID)., the national credentialing agency for ASL interpreters.

All RID-certified interpreters are bound by the Code of Professional Conduct and its seven tenets, including  confidentiality, professionalism, and respect.

 Code of Professional Conduct – RID

Confidentiality is one of the seven tenets of RID’s Code of Professional Conduct and a major value at Sharp Eyed Group. Due to the sensitive nature of each and every assignment, Sharp Eyed Group’s interpreters and captioners maintain the highest and strictest confidentiality for all parties.

Code of Professional Conduct – RID

Yes. HIPPA has a section that allows interpreters to receive protected information as a business associate. Interpreters are considered business associates since they are not employers of a clinic, healthcare center, hospital, or a medical facility. 

HIPPA for Professional