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Support for Students and Graduates with Disabilities

Issues of Disclosure

One of the most commonly asked questions by students and graduates with a disability who are looking for work concerns if, when, and whether they have to tell an employer about their disability or medical condition. When considering this issue, it is important to recognise that your disability is not the central issue of concern in the process of applying for work. In fact, it may not even be relevant at all.

The emphasis should be placed on the applicant's skills and knowledge relevant to the position, not on issues that may have no bearing on whether the applicant can do the job well. In the majority of cases, it will not be necessary to mention anything about your disability or medical condition in cover letters, forms or resumes. There is no need for you to feel that you should warn an employer or that there is some legal requirement for you to disclose.

It can occur and you need to weigh up the benefits and necessities of disclosure before doing so. Your decision about disclosure of your disability to a prospective employer is an individual one that should be based on the nature of the disability and what is known about the employer and the job.

• the type of disability;
• the type of employment opportunity;
• the need for some type of accommodation, either at the interview or at the time of the job offer
• whether your disability is apparent or not and how this might affect your prospective employer's judgement as to how you would perform particular duties;
• the need for work-place alterations or supports;
• the attitudes of the interviewer(s)

This can be done in a positive way. You can make a firm statement, presenting your disability not as a problem but as a positive experience which can give evidence of your problem-solving skills, personal qualities and other talents which may be related to the job.

Arguments For and Against Disclosing a Disability to an Employer

• Many employers have equal opportunity policies which reflect a commitment to non-discriminatory recruitment and employment procedures.
• You may feel it is more trustworthy to discuss it from the beginning. You may need to negotiate adjustments and accommodations.

Your disability may be obvious and you can deal with misconceptions, provide correct information and show how you have considered solving problems that may arise in the workplace.

• You may be discriminated against and rejected.
• You may feel that the employer will label you by your disability and not see your abilities.
• You may believe that the disability has no effect on your ability to do the job that you are applying for.