Discussing My Cerebral Palsy During A Job Interview

Jedi_Master

Hi Everyone

I hope you are all well?

I have a job interview in a weeks time and I just wanted some advice, on how to best discuss my Cerebral Palsy during an interview.

I need to best describe how it affect me but also emphasize how reasonable adjustments at work will help me carryout the role.

Should I just describe my condition and the adjustments / equipment that I think I would need, to carryout the role to the best of my ability.

Thanks

janer1967

Hi and welcome 

I would focus on telling them what you can do against the job role and yes how you would be able to do it with adjustments.  Dont say I cant do this and that unless they ask if you can do a task just explain what and how you can do 

Ross_Scope

Hello @Jedi_Master

If you believe you have the knowledge and abilities to do the role then that will come across in the interview. 

There's no need to heavily discuss your CP if you don't wish to. You're not trying to show the employer you can do the job despite having CP, you're trying to prove to them that you are good enough for the job at all and if you are, making those adjustments for your CP and having those discussions should come after you've proved that to them, which I'm sure you will.

I would advise asking the employer if they will be willing to make any adjustments for you, and see how they respond to that question, because remember it's also about them selling themselves to you. Best time to ask this would be at the end of the interview.

Best of luck and let us know how you get on. I will also tag @Richard_Scope, as I'm sure he will have some pearls of wisdom for you too.

chiarieds

Hi @Jedi_Master - I don't think I can add to the great advice you've already received. If you are interested & passionate about this job opportunity, that will come across. You don't need to discuss CP at length (you'd possibly lose them off anyway), & during the interview you'll know when it's relevant to mention this, or just any adjustments you might need.

I wish you all the best; you can do this.

[Deleted User]

Unless you absolutely HAVE to, don't tell 'em anything.

It's not a legal requirement to disclose ANY disability or health condition.

Jedi_Master

Thanks for the feedback. I will ask them about reasonable adjustments, and explain how that will help me carryout the role to the best of my ability.

Richard_Scope

Hi @Jedi_Master
My CP is obvious, so I have always talked about it in interviews but not to any great extent. If the interviewer asks directly, which some do, I emphasise what CP has given me; tenacity, determination, problem-solving skills etc. Make the focus about how you are right for the role and how you would be an asset to the organisation.
I hope it goes well