Title I: Employment Topics Interviewing Courtesies for Effective Communications 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 a Mobility Aid Enable people who use crutches, canes or wheelchairs to keep these items within reach. Be aware that some wheelchair users may choose to transfer themselves into an office chair for the duration of the interview. When speaking to a person in a wheelchair or on crutches for more than a few minutes, sit in a chair. Placing yourself at that person's eye level helps to facilitate conversation.

Interviewing a Person with a Vision Impairment 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 Yuma 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 canes, crutches or wheelchairs to keep them within reach.

Interviewing a Person with a Speech Impairment 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 people with speech impairments can hear and understand. Stifle any urge to complete a sentenace of an interviewee.

Interviewing a Person Who is Deaf or Hard of Hearing If you need to attract the attention of a person who is deaf or hearing impaired, wave or touch him or her lightly on the shoulder. If the interviewee reads lips, 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 facing the light source and keep your hands, cigarrettes 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, it has 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. Address all questions to the interviewee, not the interpreter. Interpreters facilitate communication. They should not be consulted or regarded as a reference for the interview.

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