Working remotely as a VRI interpreter doesn’t mean working in isolation. In fact, teamwork and preparation are even more important when you’re not in the same room. This article will walk you through what’s expected of you as a VRI interpreter with PAH!, and how you can show up professionally, respectfully, and confidently.
Before the job starts, we expect you to:
Read the job description thoroughly
Know the platform (Zoom, Teams, etc.)
Be on time and technically ready (camera/mic working, strong internet, good lighting)
And yes, preparation is part of the job. It's a key expectation of our profession (ASLIA Code of Ethics, anyone?).
Team interpreting isn’t optional just because the job is remote. We strongly encourage interpreters to connect with their co-interpreter before the job starts... even if it’s just a quick chat.
You could cover things like:
Who’s going first?
How you want to swap (time-based? speaker-based?)
How you’ll communicate during the job (voice? chat? WhatsApp?)
Any content you’re unsure about or want support with
What you each bring to the table -> strengths, preferences, experience
Working as a team doesn’t have to be complicated. It just takes a bit of proactive communication.
Our app has built-in messaging for a reason. Use it!
You can:
Message the Deaf customer for prep (e.g., jargon, names, expectations)
Reach out to your co-terp to coordinate
Let us know if something technical goes wrong
Prep might include:
Sign names
Specialist terms or topics
Sensitive content (e.g., grief, trauma, medical)
Ask questions. Clarify details. It’s better for everyone.
We expect all interpreters to:
Behave with courtesy and respect to colleagues and clients
Take responsibility for your own readiness
Handle sensitive content appropriately
Reach out if you’re unsure or uncomfortable with the job
You’re the professional - we trust you to lead with care and confidence.
VRI can be isolating if we let it. But it doesn’t have to be. With a little prep, a bit of teamwork, and a friendly hello in the chat, you can make it a better experience for yourself, your co, and the client.