Interviews when you're disabled

Chris Wodke

www.summittrainingpublications.com

 Having a disability can pose a challenge during a job search. You are not alone. About 20% of the population has a disability as described by the Americans with Disabilities Act.  Review this act to know your employment rights if you have a disability.

Disclosure

Your disability may not be apparent and you do not have to disclose it during the interview process.  It is best to disclose the disability if you will need an accommodation to do your job. It is best not to surprise a company after you start a new job.  The company is not required to provide an accommodation if it is so expensive it will cause a business hardship. If the accommodation is easy and inexpensive get the information out on the table.

Employment Gaps

Be ready to answer any questions about times when you were not employed. Disclose if the gap was due to your disability and tell what you have done to handle the situation. The employer wants to know you will have good attendance and will be reliable.  Talk about how you will fulfill the essential tasks needed to do the job.

Research

Do the same research any other candidate would about the job and the company. If you need special access, say because you are in a wheelchair, find out if the interview facility is accessible.  Let the company know in advance if there are any accommodations you will need.

Dialogue

Be ready to answer questions about your disability. Be prepared to discuss how you will be successful on the job. Ask the employer about any concerns they have. Try to think in advance about things they may be concerned about. Maybe you have heard some concerns during other interviews. Put the concerns on the table and address them with confidence. You want to demonstrate you have the best interest of the employer in mind. Demonstrate that you will be an asset if brought on board.

Be Tolerant

Sometimes people say things that may hurt or anger you when talking about your disability. Try to be understanding. Not everyone is an expert on how to act correctly or say the right thing when dealing with someone with a disability.  Be cheerful and upbeat.  Calming discuss any misconceptions you hear and tie this to your ability to do the job.

Be Positive

You may not get the job and it may have nothing to do with your disability.  Many of go on interviews and never hear from the company again.  Learn from the experience, correct any errors and vow to do better next time!

Copyright 2012 Summit Training Publications

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