[TRANSCRIPT BEGINS]
Visual description: Ben is wearing a black polo with the DCARA logo on the left chest, black glasses, and is standing against a clean, black background.
[Video begins with a yellow screen. A graphic of an interviewer and a candidate at the table slides in. Then a white text slides up reads “Effective Communication Accommodations for Interview”]
Happy October! Today, I’m here to share some helpful tips on how to prepare for a job interview — specifically, how to request effective communication accommodations to make your interview experience successful and empowering.
[Screen flips to a purple background with white text that reads “You got the interview. Now what?”]
So — you’ve been contacted for a job interview. That’s great news! But before you schedule it, here’s something important to remember:
If you need reasonable accommodations — like an ASL interpreter, real-time captioning, or VRI — you must communicate that in advance.
Why? Because employers need enough time to arrange the right support for you.
[Screen flips to a purple background with white text that reads “TIP 1: Schedule Your Interview Early– At Least Two Weeks Ahead”]
Try to schedule your interview at least two weeks in advance. Why? Because finding a qualified ASL interpreter can take time — especially one who’s available and experienced with job interviews.
Many interviewers may not be trained in providing accommodations for Deaf, DeafBlind, or Hard of Hearing individuals. That means you may need to educate them — and that takes time and energy.
Don’t worry — DCARA can help guide you on how to explain your needs clearly and confidently!
[Screen flips to a purple background with white text that reads “TIP 2: Be Honest and Clear About Your Communication Needs”]
Let the interviewer know exactly what you need before the interview.
For example, if you need extra time to understand interview questions due to language deprivation, or if you prefer a specific type of interpreting support. Remember – the interviewers do not know you well. It is important to make sure they understand what you need.
Letting them know early helps them prepare — and helps you feel more comfortable and confident.
[Screen flips to a purple background with white text that reads “TIP 3: Meet Your Interview Before the Interview”]
I recommend planning to meet with your ASL interpreter at least 15 minutes in advance to clarify expectations and communication preferences.
A quick chat helps you and the interpreter get to know each other, make sure you understand each other’s signing style, and reduce any last-minute stress or confusion.
Imagine being in the interview and not understanding your interpreter — that can be very distracting. Let’s avoid that!
These tips can help you build confidence, prepare well, and ensure smooth communication during your interview — whether it’s by phone, video, or in person.
[A black screen slides in with white text that reads
“Want more tips or need help requesting accommodations?
Contact DCARA and book an appointment with our Employment Specialist team.
We’re here to support you!”]
Thanks for watching — and remember, you deserve clear communication and full access at every stage of the job process.
Have a fabulous day!
[Slide shows
Contact Information:
(510) 343-6670 (VP/Voice)
info@dcara.org
www.dcara.org]
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