Serving a person using Mobility Aids
Enable people who use crutches, canes or wheelchairs to keep them within reach. Be aware that some people who use a wheelchair may choose to transfer themselves out of their wheelchairs (into an office chair, for example) for the duration of the meeting. Here again, when speaking to a person in a wheelchair or on crutches for more than a few minutes, sit in a chair to place yourself at that person’s eye level to facilitate conversation.
Ensure that the person can easily access the meeting area, and be prepared to move to a more accessible area if necessary.
Serving a person with Vision Impairments
When greeting a person with vision impairment always identify yourself and introduce anyone else who might be present. If the person does not extend their hand to shake hands, verbally extend a welcome. Be aware that some individuals with vision impairments are protective of their hands and prefer not to shake hands.
When offering seating, place the person’s hand on the back or arm of the seat. A verbal cue is helpful as well.
Serving a person with Speech Disorders
Give your whole attention when talking to a person who has a speech disorder.
Ask short questions that require short answers or a nod of the head.
Do not pretend to understand if you do not. Try rephrasing what you wish to communicate, or ask the person to repeat what you do not understand.
Do not raise your voice. Most speech-impaired persons can hear and understand.
Keep your manner encouraging rather than correcting. Avoid the temptation to complete sentences for the person.
Repeat back the interviewee’s statements to confirm that you understood them. Another technique is to rephrase the interviewee’s comments in the form of a question. The person’s response will help guide you to understanding precisely what they intended to say. Remember that open-ended questions are usually more appropriate and productive than closed-ended questions.
Example:
Closed-ended question:
"You were a tax accountant in ABC Company for seven years. Is that correct?"
(Answered by a "yes" or "no").
Open-ended question:
"Tell me more about your seven years of experience as a tax accountant for ABC – what were your most interesting challenges?"
(Confirms the information, and invites the person to provide more details.)
