Most people have never worked with an interpreter before their first interpreted appointment. A few habits make the difference between an awkward interaction and a natural one.
Speak to the person, not the interpreter
Address the Deaf person directly. Say what you would say if no interpreter were present. Phrases like tell him or ask her route the conversation through a third party and change its character. Maintain eye contact with the person you are speaking to.
Let the interpreter position themselves
Interpreters need clear sightlines and appropriate lighting. They will find the right spot, usually near the speaker so the Deaf person can see both at once. In clinical settings this may mean standing somewhere unexpected.
Expect a small lag
Interpretation runs slightly behind speech. Pause briefly before expecting a response, and avoid stacking a second question onto the first while the answer is still arriving.
One speaker at a time
In group settings, manage turn-taking. An interpreter can only convey one speaker at a time, and cross-talk means information is lost.
Share materials in advance where you can
Agendas, technical terms, names, and slides help an interpreter prepare. Preparation improves accuracy, particularly in specialized settings.
The interpreter is not a participant
Interpreters convey communication. They do not explain, advise, or answer on anyone's behalf. If you need something explained, explain it, and the interpreter will convey it faithfully.