It's in the Bag
Want to get paid? This handy document can be in hard copy or digital!
What is an invoice?
Doing this regularly will keep your body in shape (reducing chance of injury), your mind clear (releasing endorphins and other feel-good brain chemicals), and increase your stamina for interpreting that all day drama workshop.
What is exercise?
Described as a 'mental structure of preconceived ideas', this encompasses your life experience and knowledge to date and gives you a framework to build from while interpreting.
What is schema?
Blood sugar alert! Without this in your bag, you could find yourself as cranky as Suze before 11am.
What is a snack and water?
This will improve your overall mood, brain clarity, heart health and prevent diseases (although a slice of cake once in a while won't hurt!)
What is healthy eating?
While you may or may not get as much of this as you'd like, it's possible to take some of this into your own hands by using Google, other interpreters and the Deaf community, as well as visiting the assignment location, figuring out transportation and parking, and viewing the space beforehand.
What is prep?
Ripped jeans? Uncomfortable shirt? Dressed in an orange jumpsuit but then called to interpret for Mel? Having this in your bag will resolve most of your fabric related mishaps.
What is a change of clothes?
An unbiased, confidental third party that can help you sort through any issues (work related or personal) that that, left untreated, can affect your self-esteem, mental health, and even your ability to interpret.
What is counselling?
The number one piece of advice given to you during your time in AEIP, it's important to continue this after graduation to improve your ASL skills, getting your face out in the community as well as giving back to a community that has supported you.
What is socializing and volunteering?
Booked an new assignment? Ensure the hiring body has a copy of this which clearly outlines your cancellation policies, rate of pay, and booking requirements.
What are terms of service?
Working too much? Feeling overwhelmed? Relieve stress with these life-enriching activities tailored to your preferences.
What are hobbies?
This is the continued training and education of an interpreter. It keeps you up-to-date on current trends, exposes you to new aspects of the work, as well as helps you develop new skills. It can include information sessions, workshops, and mentorships.
What is PD (professional development)?
These two items help keep an interpreter's busy schedule on track and receipts sorted for tax time.
What is an agenda and log book/folder?
This group of people continue to experience your pain and can help by lending an ear or offering to help work through any interpreting issues.
What is your squad?
There may be a need for this due to length of assignment, complexity of material, pacing of speaker, and consumers involved. Ideally this situation makes you feel comfortable and supported.
What is team interpreting?