A little brutal honesty: you will need very thick skin to be an interpreter. You will have to judge yourself honestly (on many things, not just your skills) and be judged honestly by others, including teachers, fellow interpreters, and both deaf and hearing clients. You will encounter rudeness and hostility that may or may not be intentionally directed at you. You will encounter rudeness and hostility that are directed at your deaf clients.
Of course, you are right. I guess I've developed a "Teflon" skin, so I just let the negativity roll off me.
Honestly, there are only a few consumers/clients, Deaf and hearing, with whom I've had clashes. I'm probably more critical of myself then other people are of me.
I guess because I've worked in several other fields, I'm not stunned by occasional personality clashes or criticism. It can (and does) happen in any job.
One of the worst mistakes I see in interpreters is the desire to be liked and befriended by their clients. Don't mistake interpreting for socializing with the deaf community -- they can (and should) exist side-by-side but they are not the same thing, and yes, some people aren't going to like you simply because you're an interpreter.
Very good point. I don't expect to become "chums" with every consumer I meet. Over time, I have developed friendships with some consumers/clients, which I consider a "bonus", not a requirement. I generally let them take the lead as to how "friendly" we become. I don't want to overstep the bounds but I don't want to be cold or standoffish either. Sometimes it's a delicate balance.
The region in which you work makes a difference, too. In the South, in the rural and small city areas especially, people expect more warmth from each other.
I socialize with the Deaf community but I keep the two arenas separate. Maybe because of all my years experiencing military "no fraternization" policies, I can easily switch hats without become schizo.
If your response to that is "oh well" instead of "oh no!!" then that's a good start.
Great advice! Using the hearing "sign" for "what evah!", actually or just mentally (depending on the parties involved) can be a life saver.
I'll just add:
If a Deaf consumer criticizes you, take it under advisement. In the quiet of your room, analyze the criticism. If it's valid, do something to correct it. If it's not valid, and just a consumer 'tude thing, toss it, and forget it.
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