Exceeding Expectations: Tips for Interpreters on Delivering Outstanding Service
Being an exceptional interpreter goes beyond skill; it means delivering outstanding customer service to both Deaf and hearing clients alike. Every interaction is an opportunity to showcase professionalism, empathy, and cultural awareness. At The SOS Agency, we prioritize customer service from start to finish, and here’s how interpreters can follow suit. 1. Communicate Respectfully […]
The Importance of Professional Development for Interpreters
As interpreters, we know that our work requires both skill and practice. Whether you’ve been interpreting for six months or twenty years, there’s always room for growth and improvement. The field of interpreting is dynamic, and staying updated is crucial. This is where professional development becomes vital. . Why Professional Development Matters . Evolving Industry […]
The SOS Agency: Past, Present, and Future
Every great business starts with a need, and The SOS Agency is no exception. Its journey began in Atlanta, sparked by a recurring demand from an out-of-state agency that was struggling to fill interpreter assignments in a crucial setting, a mental health hospital. The agency reached out repeatedly, asking for referrals, and Tanesh Foster found […]
Be the Team You’d Want!
As American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters, we understand the importance of advocating for a team for certain assignments. Yet, we sometimes see and hear about a team assignment in which one member of the team disconnects from the assignment when they are not facing the client. We would like to pose a question. Are you truly teaming, or […]
Should ASL Interpreters Bill for Arriving Early?
As ASL interpreters, we often debate whether we should bill for arriving early to assignments. Are we preparing ourselves to do the best job possible, or are we giving clients a freebie by showing up ahead of time? Let’s dive into why interpreters should not bill for arriving early to assignments. Standard Practice: Arriving 10-15 […]
HOW TO: Get Offered More Assignments from an Agency!
Securing more assignments from interpreting agencies requires proactive engagement, effective communication, and a commitment to delivering high-quality interpretation services consistently. In this blog post, I’m excited to share valuable insights and actionable tips. Whether you’re a seasoned interpreter or just starting out, these tips can help you establish stronger connections with agencies and secure more […]
Tax Tips for Interpreters!
Interpreters, like other self-employed professionals, may be eligible for various tax deductions to help reduce their taxable income. It’s important to keep detailed records and consult with a tax professional to ensure compliance with tax laws. Here are some specific write-offs that interpreters may consider: Home Office Expenses: Deduct a portion of your rent […]
“Teamwork Makes the DreamWork”: Why We Partner with Other Agencies?
Addressing the Shortage: One of the driving forces behind The SOS Agency’s mission is the recognition of a significant shortage of ASL interpreters. As the demand for ASL services continues to rise, the shortage has created many challenges for those relying on interpreting services. Prioritizing the Deaf Community At the heart of The SOS […]
A Day in the Life of a Medical Interpreter
Alex is an ASL interpreter who gets assigned to interpret at a hospital. After the doctors finish their rounds, Alex faces a choice – sit in the hall or hang out in the Deaf patient’s room. Alex chooses to hang out with the Deaf patient in their room for the rest of their shift. The […]
Remembering Makeba Orr Smith
Makeba Orr Smith was a nationally certified interpreter, speech pathologist, and child of a Deaf adult (CODA). She had a bubbly personality and everyone in our field loved her. Makeba meant far more to me than just a colleague; she was the first person to be-friend me when I moved to Atlanta. Over the years, […]