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Get the deaf person’s attention before speaking. A tap on the shoulder or a wave is sufficient.
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Be sure that the deaf person is seated to his or her best advantage. This usually means a seat closer to the speaker or interpreter for easy visibility. Round tables for meetings give better sight lines to everyone.
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Maintain eye contact with the deaf person; this allows for direct communication. Speak directly to or with a deaf person, even if an interpreter is present.
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Avoid unnecessary pacing and talking with face or back turned, or while writing on chalkboard.
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Do not place anything in the mouth while speaking. Actions such as smoking, chewing on a pencil, and covering one’s mouth make it more difficult for the deaf person to understand what is being said.
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Avoid standing in front of a light source, such as a window or a bright light. The shadow created on the speaker’s face makes lip-reading extremely difficult for the deaf person.
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Speak slowly and clearly, but do not exaggerate lip movements or over pronounce words. Exaggeration and overemphasis of words distort lip movements, making lip-reading more difficult. Try speaking in short sentences; they are easier to understand than long ones.
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Conversation can be written, using pen and paper or computers.
