Hot Topic: Talking About Your Disability in a Job Interview

We’re sharing a new feature: Hot Topics! We’ll answer real questions from job seekers. This week, we will discuss talking about your disability during a job interview.

Question

Should I talk about my disability during a job interview?

Answer

Talking about your disability is your choice. You do not have to talk about it in an interview unless you want to. An employer is not allowed to ask you anything about it, either. But there are times when you might want to mention it.

When to Talk About It

There are a few reasons you might want to share your disability during an interview.

If your disability is visible to and sometimes misunderstood by others. For example, you may struggle to maintain eye contact. That may be a part of your disability. It doesn’t mean you’re not listening or paying attention. You might want to make that clear to the interviewer.
If you need to do a sample task at the interview. Sometimes you’ll be asked to show that you can do a job skill—like data entry. If you need an accommodation to do this well, you should tell the interviewer. For example, you might use a screen protector to reduce glare.

Plan It Out

If you do choose to talk about your disability, plan what to say. Here are some tips.

Think about how your disability relates to your work. For example, do you use tools or strategies to help with focus, memory, or physical tasks? You can explain that you have a disability and also talk about the supports you use that help you do your best work.
Keep it short and positive. Focus on what you can do. For example, “I use noise-canceling headphones to help me focus and do my best work. That’s probably why I can type so fast and accurately!”

Learn More

To build your confidence in talking about your disability, check out our free course, What to Say About Your Disability. It even has a graphic organizer to help you plan what to say.

Self-Advocate Course (learn on your own)
Partner Edition (for parents, support staff, or other partners)
Instructor Edition (for transition classroom teachers and service providers)

Check out our blog for more tips and tools.