To Disclose or Not To Disclose: Disability in the Workplace

By Martin Jauregui

workplace DisabilityDespite the changes that have resulted since the passing of the ADA and the country’s changing social climate, individuals living with medical disabilities still face an uphill battle when it comes to finding a job. For many, the simple act of making it to the interview can be a challenge itself. When these individuals are given the opportunity to interview, they often face the very important question of disclosure. Some hold the view that all disabilities should be disclosed to potential employers, while others feel as if some disabilities need not be revealed. Regardless of the situation, the bottom line is that disclosing a disability is less of a legal issue, and more of an ethical decision.

Legally, the only time a person is required to disclose an existing disability is in the case where their ability to complete essential job duties may be negatively affected by the disability. In some cases, disclosing a disability can actually strengthen a person’s standing with an employer. Such actions can be viewed as a sign of character or strength by a potential employer who might truly appreciate the openness and honesty.

When a disability is outwardly noticeable, there is really no need to cover it up. In fact, disclosing an obvious disability is actually a good idea, especially if you are going to need accommodations during the interview process or if it is going to directly affect your job performance. The more difficult decision of disclosure is left to those individuals with disabilities who are not outwardly noticeable. For them, careful consideration must be taken as to when, or even if, a disability should be disclosed. On one hand, the person does not want to come off a someone who is not truthful for failing to reveal a disability, but on the other hand, the person does not want to reveal a disability if doing so is going to put their chances of being hired at risk.

A Vision of a Better Future

Sherlock Washington
President SW Unlimited

In 1998, after thinking about it and planning for it for a long time, I took a chance and did something that was scary and frightening. It was also something I really wanted. I became the founder and CEO of my own business, SW Unlimited, Limited Liability Company (LLC).

Before starting SW Unlimited, I had been working for another company as the Director of Asset Re-Marketing and Recovery. This job involved the purchasing of used computers, parts, and peripherals from Fortune 1000 companies. After the acquisition of the equipment, it was audited, tested and cleaned. The equipment was then ready for resale and it was my job to find potential buyers for this equipment.

I enjoyed my work and was good at it, however, the company decided to downsize. Translation – they told me that I my employment contract would not be renewed. It was at that moment, I realized it was time for me to make what became, a life changing decision.

That Smell Better Not Be You - Seriously!

Hygiene as Important as Attire

I know. Everyone's thinking is he serious? Absolutely.

The truth is that the majority of individuals going on a job interview already understand the importance of a good, clean physical appearance. As a manager, I’ve had the opportunity to interview many candidates for available positions. The majority were squeaky clean. However, I do remember a number of people who were not. One young lady never bothered to brush her hair or teeth and it showed. Another person being interviewed really smelled bad.

It is important to know that as a prospective employee it is in your best interest to keep the focus on your ability to do the job. A neat appearance sets the stage for you to sell your skills as the best candidate for the position. Let the interview center on you, not your hygiene.

With that said, let's get right to it. If you’re a person with a disability and have difficulty with activities of daily living, such as bathing, brushing, or dressing prepare early. This means:

* Ensure that a family member or personal care assistant can assist you with bathing, brushing and personal hygiene issues before the actual interview.
* Have someone available during the interview time in case of last minute emergencies. (As a person with a disability myself, I can tell you that if anything is going to go wrong it is when you’re least prepared.)
* Brush your teeth! Brush your teeth thoroughly and preferably right before the interview. While the Austin Powers look may have been popular in Old England, it is not cool when you’re trying to land a job.
* Brush your hair. If you need help, get it. Do not use overly scented gels or hair sprays in your hair.

10 Terrific Tips for a Great Job Interview

1. Know the Employer - Research the employers business ahead of the interview. Talk with others who may know about the company.

2. Dress to Dazzle - Have clothes cleaned and pressed a day or two before the interview. Try them on a few days before to insure they fit properly and you are comfortable. Poor circulation or lack of sensation may cause some people to not feel comfortable for a few hours. Also, clothing should not be too baggy or too tight (no matter how sexy you think you are). If you cannot afford a suit or dress, visit a second-hand store and purchase one. You can have them dry cleaned at a reasonable cost.

3. Get a Makeover - A first impression says a lot to an employer.

• Get a haircut and do your nails (yes, guys can get a manicure)
• Take a bath or shower (no, we are not joking)
• Brush your teeth (Before the interview if possible)
• Light on the make-up, cologne and perfume- no heavily scented soap. (Most people omit cologne and perfume altogether)

4. Clean the Equipment - If your disability requires you to use equipment such as, crutches, wheelchair, or cane, clean them thoroughly. If you can’t keep the very thing that makes you independent clean, are they going to trust with a job?