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Disability

When should you tell them? Disability

When you walk into an interview the last thing you need to worry about is when you should tell your potential employer about your disability. You need to concentrate on selling your abilities. Do not let your disability “steal the show” in your interview. Having a healthy and positive attitude toward your disability is the first step to getting the job. There are some benefits to being open from the start about your disability. This article looks at disability disclosure before your interview, or during it.

1. You may be required by law to disclose your disability.

Depending on the current disability legislation, you may be required to disclose your disability if you cannot perform duties or your disability negatively affects the safety or health of your co-workers. So, safeguard yourself and those around you by being informed on your personal rights.

2. It may be an awkward interview for you and your interviewer if there is no disclosure.

By being honest about your disability at the start will remove the “shock factor” for your interviewers. Prior knowledge will help the interviewer ask suitable questions about your disability - and how it would affect your work. For example, the kind of equipment or disabled access would be necessary for you to work effectively.

3. Build a good relationship with your interviewer.

Disclosure will also promote an honest and trusting relationship between you and your potential employer. Being honest from the beginning will help you and your interviewers relax and speak openly about your abilities rather than your disabilities. First impressions and getting off to a “good start” are vital for successful interviews.

4. Disclosure on application forms.

Some application forms require information about disability. It is not a good idea to say you have no disability on application forms, when you do. Employers use application forms when dealing with many job applications, not filling the form in honestly can only lead to confusion and it may work against you in the future.

Ultimately, when and if you tell your employer about your disability is your decision. These situations can be a sensitive issue to deal with. Our suggestions are directed at healthy and safe working environments where disabled workers get good support from employers. Being honest and direct about your disability will allow you to concentrate on your skills and abilities for the job.