When introduced to a person with a disability, it is appropriate to offer to shake hands. Even people with limited hand use or who wear an artificial limb can shake hands.

• Treat adults as adults. Address people who have disabilities by first name only when calling everyone present by first name.
• When talking to a person who has a disability, speak directly to that person rather than through a companion who may be along.
• Don’t be embarrassed if you happen to use words that seem to relate to a disability. “See you later” or “Walk this way” or “Got to be running along” are common expressions everyone uses, including people with disabilities.
• If you offer help, wait until the offer is accepted then listen to ask for instructions.
• Consider needs of people with disabilities when planning events.
• Conduct interviews in a manner that emphasizes abilities, achievements, and individual qualities.
• Avoid putting people with disabilities on a pedestal. Conduct your interview as you would with anyone.

• You may need to get the person’s attention by touching the person lightly on the shoulder or waving your hand.
• If an interpreter is present, speak to the individual being interviewed rather than to the interpreter.
• If the person is lip-reading, look directly at the interviewee. Speak slowly and clearly. Do not exaggerate your lip movements or shout. Speak expressively because the person will rely on your facial expressions, gestures and body movements to understand you.
• Place yourself facing the light source and keep your hands, or objects away from your mouth when speaking.
• Shouting does not help and can be harmful. You may want to use written notes.

• When greeting a person with a severe loss of vision, always identify yourself and introduce anyone else who might be present.
• When offering a handshake, say something like “shall we shake hands?”
• Do not move chairs or put obstructions in the pathway of someone with a visual impairment.
• Let the person know if you need to end the conversation.

• Give your whole attention when talking to a person with a speech difficulty.
• Ask short questions that require short answers or nod of head.
• Do not finish the person’s sentences. Never assume that you know what the person will say.
• Don’t pretend to understand if you do not. Try rephrasing what you wish to communicate.

• Do not lean on a person’s wheelchair. The chair is part of the body space of the person who uses it.
• Do not patronize people in wheelchairs.
• When interviewing a person in a wheelchair or using mobility aids for more than a few minutes, place yourself at that person’s eye level to avoid stiff necks.
• Allow people who use Assistive technology to keep them within reach.
• Make sure the place where you plan to conduct the interview is accessible by checking the following
• Are there accessible parking spaces available and nearby?
• Is there a ramped or step-free entrance?
• Are there accessible bathrooms?
• If the interview is not on the first floor, does the building have an elevator?
• Are the water fountains and telephones at an accessible height/location?
• If there are any accessibility problems with the interview location, notify the interviewee in advance to relocate the interview.