[Job-Discussions] Disclosing about your visual impairment

[nmpbrat at aol.com]

Jess,I really think it is a personal choice and know of people doing it both ways.  I have always chosen to disclose at the interview for the very reason you described in your message... that the employer would feel as though I was not honest with them.  I felt that even though I'd have the job, it could put a damper on the new relationship between myself and the employer.  I also felt that if an employer really didn't want me because of my visual impairment and couldn't see past it to see all that I could offer them, then I didn't want to work for them anyway. I want to work for people who can at least respect me for the person that I am and can see past the disability.  When I disclosed, I always tried to put a spin on it that would hopefully put them at ease and encouraged them to ask questions so that I could deal with any misconceptions they might have.  I also understand why many people are hesitant to disclose, as I am also keenly aware of the fact that there is still rampant discrimination in the area of employment and it can be very discouraging to be repeatedly rejected simply because of your disability without being given the opportunity to prove you can in fact do the job.  So I do see both sides of the coin.  Ultimately, each individual has to decide what they can live with.  Just my 2 cents.  Nicole


-----Original Message-----
From: Jess Shek via Job-Discussions <job-discussions at nfbnet.org>
To: job-discussions at nfbnet.org
Cc: Jess Shek <jessshek at gmail.com>
Sent: Wed, May 19, 2021 11:12 am
Subject: [Job-Discussions] Disclosing about your visual impairment

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

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