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Home » Interview Techniques – Students with Disabilities Interview Techniques – Students with Disabilities
Before the Interview:
Review your abilities, skills, interests, education background and work history. Be prepared to give concrete examples of times you were successful, problems you may have encountered and how you handled them.
- If you are participating in CareerKnight (on-campus interviewing program) and require any accommodations during the application process or for the on-campus interview, contact the Manager, Employer Services at 732-932-7287.
- If you are invited for an on-site interview at a company/organization you may wish to let the recruiter know that you are a wheelchair user or that you will need a sign language interpreter.
- Make sure that you determine in advance the availability of handicap parking for that day.
- Determine how long the interview will last especially if you require any special accommodations.
Employers can not and should not ask:- Do you have a physical or mental disability?
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How did this happen to you? Were you born this way?
- How will you get to work?
- How often will you need to be away from the job for treatment for this condition?
- In addition, an employer may not require a pre-employment medical examination or inquiry. An employer may require a medical examination after an offer of employment has been made if all employees are required to take a medical examination.
Employers can ask about:How you would perform a particular task or to demonstrate how you would perform a particular function. This is known as the "essential functions of the job."
During the Interview:Interviews can be very stress provoking, therefore, it may be beneficial to think of the meeting as a conversation between two potential business partners. Also, bear in mind that your resume has prompted interest in you, so put your best forward!
- Be punctual. Arrive 15 minutes early, attend to any personal needs and compose yourself for the interview.
- You may be asked to complete an application when you arrive. If you need any special assistance or accommodations, be sure that you have indicated that prior to the interview.
- Know the name of your interviewer and address him/her by Mr. or Ms. unless invited to do otherwise.
- It is typical to greet the employer with a handshake. If your circumstances do not permit this, greet the employer with a warm and enthusiastic acknowledgement.
- Smile, show enthusiasm and present a positive attitude.
- If your disability is a hidden one such as hearing loss and you read lips, it is advisable to inform the employer that he/she needs to speak at a moderate pace and face you so that you can read their lips.
- If your situation allows, maintain good eye contact, this shows that you are interested and attentive to the employer. If eye contact is not possible, then an occasional nod is appropriate.
- Dress professionally. Business attire is appropriate for most interviews. For women, typically a suit, or dress is recommended. However, if you feel more comfortable in a pants suit choose one that has a polished and professional appearance.
- Rapport is very important! Put the interviewer at ease. Whatever your disability, focus on your strengths and abilities and let the employer know that you are comfortable with your disability.
After the Interview:Immediately after the interview you might want to write notes about any important details discussed during the interview. Within 24 hours, write a short thank you letter to the interviewer for meeting with you. The letter can emphasize your interest in the position and how your qualifications match the employer's needs.
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