As organizations strengthen their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, ASL interpreting services are a critical part of creating accessible workplaces and events. However, many businesses still misunderstand what effective American Sign Language interpreting requires.
At The SOS Agency, we regularly work with organizations that have the right intentions—but common misunderstandings.
The good news? These mistakes are fixable. Here’s what businesses often get wrong about professional ASL interpreting, and how to correct it in 2026.
Misconception #1: Any ASL Interpreter Will Work
Many businesses assume that hiring any ASL interpreter meets their accessibility needs.
The Reality
ASL interpreting is a specialized profession. Not all interpreters are interchangeable, and different settings require different skill sets.
Legal proceedings, medical appointments, higher education classes, corporate trainings, and large-scale events all require interpreters with specific experience, credentials, and preparation. Assigning the wrong interpreter can result in miscommunication, omissions, and compliance risks.
Best Practice for Businesses
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Request professional ASL interpreting services based on the setting
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Share detailed information about the assignment in advance
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Trust your interpreting agency’s recommendations for specialized or higher-tier interpreters
Misconception #2: One Interpreter Is Enough for Any Length of Time
The Reality
ASL interpreting is both physically and cognitively demanding. Fatigue impacts accuracy—especially in assignments involving continuous communication, complex terminology, or high-stakes information.
Assignments lasting one hour, trainings, meetings, webinars, or specialized environments often require team interpreting, where two interpreters rotate every 15–20 minutes.
Best Practice for Businesses
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Budget for team interpreting when appropriate
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Understand that two interpreters improve accuracy and reduce risk
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View team interpreting as a quality and safety measure, not an unnecessary cost
Misconception #3: Interpreters Can Just Show Up and Interpret
The Reality
High-quality ASL interpreting for businesses starts before the assignment begins.
Interpreters prepare by reviewing agendas, terminology, presentations, and industry-specific language. When materials are not shared in advance, it limits how effective the interpretation can be.
Best Practice for Businesses
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Share materials, slides, and agendas early
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Allow interpreters time to prepare
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Treat interpreters as part of your workplace accessibility solution, not an afterthought
Misconception #4: Last-Minute Interpreter Requests Are Fine
The Reality
While emergencies happen, last-minute requests significantly reduce interpreter availability—especially for legal interpreting, mental health interpreting, or assignments requiring two interpreters or a Deaf Interpreter (CDI).
Waiting too long can result in limited options or no coverage at all.
Best Practice for Businesses
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Request ASL interpreters as early as possible
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Build accessibility into planning timelines
Misconception #5: ADA Compliance Equals Accessibility
The Reality
Meeting minimum ADA compliance and accessibility requirements does not always result in meaningful access.
True accessibility considers communication preferences, interpreter fit, environment, and the lived experiences of Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals.
Best Practice for Businesses
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Move beyond a compliance-only mindset
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Ask questions and remain flexible
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Partner with providers that focus on relationship-driven accessibility, not just coverage
The SOS Way: Relationship-Driven ASL Interpreting Services
At The SOS Agency, we believe accessibility works best when built on trust, preparation, and collaboration. We don’t just provide interpreters—we guide organizations toward communication that is accurate, respectful, and empowering.
When businesses get ASL interpreting right, everyone benefits.
If your organization is ready to improve workplace accessibility solutions in 2026, The SOS Agency is here to help.
