Disclosure of disability when job hunting
I have a question I would like to ask the community and see how others answer it. And, I apologize for the long post. I wanted to share as much of my thought process as possible.
I suffered a TBI (anoxic) Dec, 2005. Today, I am actively looking for more meaningful employment and seem to run into the same situation that keeps me from landing better opportunities, if I immediately disclose I have a disability. (And now, not to mention bad timing, with 33 million people out of work)
Here’s my question; When do you disclose to a perspective employer that you have a disability? I have a TBI. That, unlike probably many of you, I can hide. But I have expressive aphasia. I am told my speech is fine when I’m not under stress. Writing can sometimes be harder. And, boy, have I learned the importance of proofing my writings. But, when stressed (ie a job interview), I have a hard time fluidly expressing my thoughts. Yet, I am a fairly confident public speaker.
But, speech issues, be they occasionally or always, lead people to believe anyone with aphasia is, i don’t even know what word to use. Discrimination against those with disabilities, older age, and ethic backgrounds, for example, are illegal. But, they are IMPOSSIBLE to prove, not that I would sue to work with a company with those ethical standards.
I’ve noticed many potential employers are asking for “a statement of disability” where certain disabilities are listed and you have to sign a statement to declare one; not necessarily your disability. To me, it’s a back door to ask that question.
That said, I go back to my original question. I’ve struggled with this for years, since I was a patient at the HCMC TBI program and then Courage Center from 2005 through 2010. This question keeps coming up whenever discussing barriers to employment for those who have disabilities. And, I have heard this very question posed again and again! Which, to me, means it is a prevalent issue.
Don’t get me wrong, I know I am a hard working, dedicated and reliable employee. I have been very successful in the past. But since my injury, opportunities to even try to be successful seem very difficult to find. Alright, enough of me talking.
I would love to hear how others address this issue and their personal experiences. I hope this is a question that can start a dialogue to help many people with disabilities, not just help me!
Happy Summer! And, I wish you all good health and be safe!
Excuse any typos......aphasia. 😋