Say Hello to Someone Deaf

8 Valuable Recommendations when Communicating

Whenever meeting someone deaf just throw yourself into a conversation with them. No one will laugh at you – nor will the deaf person who will do his or her utmost to understand you.

1. Deaf people are good at lip reading so it is important that your face is uncovered when you have a conversation with them. Eye contact is one of the most important factors when communicating.

2. If you do not have eye contact then start off by touching the shoulder gently. Also you can stamp your foot as deaf people feel the vibration in the floor and thus their attention is awoken.

3. Speak in a natural manner and remember to use your facial expressions. The worst thing a deaf person knows is a face without expression as it makes the conversation difficult. But no. Exaggeration will not improve the understanding so just act naturally.

4. Do not hide your mouth behind a scarf or your hands.

5. There is no shame in using paper or pen if lip reading is not turning out as expected. Also you can use your cell phone.

6. Use your body language when expressing yourself.

7. Make sure it is not too dark when you are talking. Darkness makes mouth and body language difficult to read.

8. When communicating with someone deaf it is not about doing it right. One of the hardest parts about being deaf is when the hearing give up quickly – or if they focus solely on the interpreter while speaking to you. The deaf and the hearing need to compromise – and each party has a great deal to offer the other.

Remember that you can always book an interpreter if you have a scheduled meeting with someone deaf.