If you have a disability and want to learn how to pass an interview, this article is what you need. Finding employment may be difficult and stressful for a disabled person. The reason is that they often face discrimination throughout their job hunt. The key to persuading employers that an impairment has no impact on performance is preparation.
This dynamic makes job interviews even more important since they are often the sole opportunities to create a strong first impression. Smart candidates address these problems by doing preliminary research about a business, which allows them to create a list of possible questions to practice responding to.
The majority of the suggestions and recommendations in this piece are relevant to everyone, regardless of whether or not they have a disability. The following arguments may seem cliché, but they are very helpful.
Table of Contents
Your Courage And Confidence
Confidence is key to any interview. If you attend your interview with great optimism and charisma, you will likely make a great impression on the interviewer. However, it is essential to strike the proper balance since overconfidence may be excessive and arrogant. Accusations of possessing these traits portray a negative image to the interviewer. Relax and let your uniqueness and personality shine through.
What About Your Disability?
The second piece of advice is to try not to dwell too much on your impairment. However, if you have a disability that is not conspicuous, it is important to bring the matter up in the interview if necessary. If the disability is visible, do not emphasize on the matter unless the interviewer asks specific questions. As a matter of fact, you do not have an obligation to respond to any of the questions that make you uncomfortable. Although, answering relevant questions may assist your prospective employer in making modifications to accommodate you.
Understand your Curriculum Vitae
The interviewer will likely have studied your Covering Letter and CV critically. Therefore, you should be ready to respond to any questions regarding the same correctly. Don’t be caught off guard by putting anything on there to make yourself seem better; you’ll look ridiculous if you do!
Ask Questions
In reference to the above point on confidence, it is important to know when to inquire about the organization. This demonstrates involvement and a strong interest in the job you’re looking for, which will be a welcoming difference for those conducting the interview!
You Should Have a Beforehand Knowledge of the Location
This final step is particularly important for disabled applicants. It is necessary to find out where your interview will be held and whether or not the location is accessible. Is there accessibility to parking? Is there a restroom that is easily accessible? Is there step-free access, a hearing loop, and are guiding dogs allowed? These are all things your prospective employer should tell you about if they are aware of your situation. If they are unaware of your condition or have forgotten, don’t be hesitant to contact them before the interview to find out.
You want to give yourself the greatest opportunity of succeeding during an interview and having prior knowledge of your surroundings can help you accomplish that. At the very least, making an effort is impressive as well. On the internet, there’s a lot of information on how to best prepare for an interview.