About this course
Interpreting is a profession built on relationships, including the relationships we have with our colleagues. Yet those interactions are not always supportive.
Horizontal violence describes behaviours between members of a professional or peer group that undermine, diminish or harm one another. It can take many forms, from gossip, exclusion and undermining comments to public criticism, hostile feedback and harmful online interactions. The effects do not stop with the interpreters involved. These behaviours can also affect working relationships, the quality of our practice and, ultimately, the Deaf clients and communities we serve.
In this interactive webinar, Brett Best will explore what horizontal violence is and, importantly, what it is not. Together, we will consider why these behaviours may develop within interpreting communities, the impact of professional culture and online spaces, and the sometimes difficult boundary between harmful criticism and necessary professional feedback.
Through discussion and real-world examples, participants will explore how to respond when they experience or witness these behaviours, how to navigate difficult professional interactions and how we can each contribute to a healthier, more reflective professional culture.
Professional relationships matter, and difficult interactions with colleagues can be challenging to navigate. Whether experienced directly or observed around us, harmful behaviours can affect confidence, trust, communication and practice.
This webinar offers a space to explore these issues more openly, increase understanding of horizontal violence within the profession and consider practical ways to respond more constructively.
Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of the topic, greater insight into how these behaviours can affect the profession and ideas for contributing to a more thoughtful and supportive professional culture.
Learning outcomes
- Understanding what horizontal violence is and what it is not
- Exploring the different ways harmful colleague behaviours can show up in professional settings
- Considering the impact of gossip, exclusion, undermining comments, criticism and online interactions
- Examining why these behaviours may develop within interpreting communities
- Reflecting on the boundary between harmful behaviour and necessary professional feedback
- Considering how these experiences can affect practitioners, working relationships and Deaf clients
- Exploring practical ways to respond when experiencing or witnessing harmful behaviours
- Reflecting on how we can contribute to a healthier professional culture
Live, interactive and supported
This is an active learning session with explanation, structured discussion and practical work. A useful course handbook or supporting materials are provided, together with a CPD certificate for each attendee.
Participation and cameras
Participation is encouraged. Cameras help people connect with those they are learning and working with, while recognising that there may be circumstances where having a camera on is not practical or appropriate.
Not recorded
This course is delivered live and is not recorded. Please book only if you can attend at the advertised time.
About the trainer
Brett Best
Brett Best is a fully qualified American Sign Language (ASL), British Sign Language (BSL) and English interpreter, trainer, researcher and published author. She holds a BA in Deaf Studies from Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C. and an MSc from the European Masters in Sign Language Interpreting (EUMASLI) programme. Brett has worked internationally within the interpreting profession and has delivered training and presentations on a range of areas including professional practice, interpreting standards, voicing strategies, technology and e-professionalism. Her research interests include the professionalisation of sign language interpreting and the impact of technology on interpreting practice. Alongside her interpreting work, Brett brings her experience as a trainer and researcher to discussions around professional confidence, development and the realities of working as a sign language interpreter.