1. Be allies
Interpreting isn’t just a job - it is a way of life, an immersive experience that builds bridges between Deaf and hearing communities. To be a good interpreter is to be a good ally - there is no 5pm clock out for this mindset, because ally status is ongoing.
2. Participate in Deaf community events
Be seen in the Deaf community and embrace Deaf culture. It is the best way to keep up with the community lifestyle, to continue language development, and to build relationships with community members.
3. Educate self and peers on best practices
If you want to know something, read about it. If you want to be good at something, do it. If you want to become an expert at something, teach it. Share what you’ve gained to the benefit of the community.
4. Strive for the best in overall industry service
Never be content with the current affairs in your industry. Volunteer your time as a visionary and dream about the perfect interpreting world, take official posts to fix cracks in the system and inspire your peers to do the same.
5. Continuously improve interpreting skill
There’s always room for improvement. Even if your professional skills are off the charts, there’s always something to work on. How’s your lag time? How much depth is there in your Mental Thesaurus? Be honest with yourself and ask for feedback.
6. Mentor and be mentored
Remember what it was like to be wet behind the ears? The self-doubt, the butterflies, the voice in your head, and the desire to be great. Many people enter the profession in this default position, and the community benefits if you help mentor them on their path to become Superterps.
7. Employ yourself with Deaf-centered agencies
Not all interpreting agencies do the right things. Don't be complicit by working for them. Work for the ones that care about the Deaf community on an intimate level, especially the ones that give Deaf people the power to choose for themselves.
8. Treat ASL with equal status to English
Be willing to accept and promote ASL as one of your primary languages, and participate in a majority of CEU workshops that are ASL-only. -Contributed by Adrean Clark
9. Advocate for CDIs
Certified Deaf Interpreters should be the front line in assessing and providing services. Actively work with them and seek opportunities to provide employment for Deaf people within the industry. -Contributed by Adrean Clark