ASL Interpreters with facial piercings?

Question

I am going to college to become an ASL interpreter. I was thinking about getting either my lip, or eyebrow pierced...but I started thinking about the effects that would have on job opportunities...Is it a bad idea to have a piercing as an interpreter?

Answer 1

Interpreters should be able to fit into their environment when working on an assignment. That means if you're interpreting in a warehouse setting, you shouldn't be in stilletto heels. Likewise, if you're interpreting a corporate meeting, it's not a good idea to be in shorts and a t-shirt.

Remember that ASL is a visual language. Your clients' eyes are going to be on you most of the time. How distracting will this piercing be to their ability to concentrate on your signs? It's the same question an ASL interpreter asks (or should) about their clothing and hairstyle. Put yourself in your clients' shoes -- would you want to stare at you all day . . . or would you be distracted by you? That's the most important thing.

One suggestion was that you get the piercing but not wear jewelry in it. That's one choice - but how long will you have to keep something in it initially to keep it open? Even if you're not doing assignments now, are you doing school assignments? This is something that could potentially affect your grade as well as "distracting mannerisms, clothing and hygiene." Just a few things to remember.

I personally wouldn't get one. I knew a girl who was studying to be an ASL interpreter who had both a lip and an eyebrow piecing. I hated working with her or even chatting with her because I can't see anything but those piercings.

Good luck with your studies.

Answer 2

Very bad. An interpreter needs to have a neutral, business like appearance. There should be no visible piercings, tattoos or other body modifications. It simply does not go with that industry.

Answer 3

You've made a great career choice. Go ahead and get the piercings. Just don't wear jewelry in them while at work.