[Job-Discussions] Disclosing about your visual impairment

[Jess Shek]

Dear All,

I have come across questions about when to disclose their visual
impairment when applying for jobs.

A lot of them (including myself) will not disclose their visual
impairment in the resume, and also in the initial chat with employers
until the face-to-face interview taking place, as there will be
chances that your application will be totally ignored.

One of my low-visioned friend only told the employer about her visual
impairment after she got an offer from the employer. She told the
employer as accommodations are needed. But the employer felt that this
was an integrity issue, that they thought that my friend should have
informed them about the visual impairment prior to the offer is given.
And my friend felt that since just slight accommodations is needed
(e.g. having a bigger monitor), she doesn't think she should let the
employer know, as from her past experience, employers will not
consider her application when she mentions to them her visual
impairment during the hiring process.

Could I seek your view on that, i.e. when is the best time to tell
employers about the applicant's visual impairment? And, if no
accommodation is needed (e.g. for a low-visioned person), do you think
he/she needs not tell the employer about his/her visual impairment?

Many thanks in advance!

Cheers,
Jess