By Vivian Fridas, Former CSP Mentor
Interviewing for a job is most likely the last, and certainly one of the most crucial, steps toward securing it. This article gives some helpful tips and advice about how to approach a job interview.
Research
First, you need to do your homework. It is important that you research the company and the position for which you are interviewing. An easy way to accomplish this is to read up on the organization’s official website, particularly looking at their mission statement or “About Us” page. Furthermore, asking a few questions about who will be conducting the interview can also provide you with valuable information on how the interviewer will proceed with the interview and what you can expect. You may find out some interests you have in common with the interviewer and can work that into the time you have with that individual. You may also wish to ask friends or others you know who have knowledge about the position or the company. This way you can receive any advice for when you go to the interview about what may be expected of you. By doing this, you will show your potential employer that you are thorough and knowledgeable and that you go above and beyond what he or she may ask for.
Practice
If you have the chance, it’s a good idea to participate in a mock interview, especially if you are relatively new to the job interview process or if you tend to be reserved with new people. Your college or university may provide mock interview sessions through the career development center, so if they do, be sure to take advantage of their input. Because you are blind or have low vision, ask the interviewer to point out visual behaviors which may have been unhelpful or distracting. The career development center may also have additional information regarding the company that will give you an edge during the interview. The CSP also has connections to volunteers who can help with your interview practice virtually. If you are interested in scheduling this practice, email us at csp@envisionus.com for more information.
Prepare
Dress professionally. Professional attire does vary, depending on the type of job for which you are applying. Find out whether you will need to wear a dress or suit, or if slacks and a dress shirt will work. But whatever you wear, make sure your clothes, hair and overall appearance are neat and tidy.
Make sure you know how to get to your interview. If you don’t, ask friends, family or a mobility instructor to help you. Being late is unacceptable, no matter the circumstances.
Rest well the night before your interview, and eat as you normally would.
Introductions
You have arrived at the interview. Be open and friendly with everyone you meet, such as security guards and receptionists. Assume that your interviewer and anyone else involved in your hiring decision will find out if you are rude to anyone.
In addition, immediately establish a friendly rapport with the person who is interviewing you. Make sure to shake hands if this behavior is comfortable for everyone, smile, and know the name of your interviewer. Don’t be afraid to make a little small talk, but don’t let it go on for too long.
What to expect during the interview
Now that you’ve established rapport, the interview will begin. Questions in job interviews vary from job to job, so be ready for anything. However, one question to prepare yourself for is the almost ubiquitous, harmless but weighted question, “So, tell me more about yourself.” Though the interviewer has your resume, references, and other relevant documents needed for the application to the position, this is the time when he or she wants to hear you give a description about your background and ambitions. Additionally, if you have prepared an ability statement, this question may be a good opportunity to put your prospective employer at ease about your disability. Having a small summary of your academic background and achievements combined with your work experience prepared in advance will help you answer this question effectively. Similarly, you should expect to answer questions about your abilities and skills. Give three reasons why you believe this position will be perfect for you and how you would carry out the duties and responsibilities efficiently and competently.
In addition to answering questions in an articulate fashion, it is a good idea to have a few questions of your own. This can include questions about the position, who your supervisor will be, inquiries into the organization, or anything you want to know that has not been covered during the interview. This type of job related questioning will also benefit you. The information you get will also help you to make an educated decision about whether it will be the right fit for you. Your interviewer will also appreciate your questions and will perceive you as an inquisitive individual always doing due diligence.
Answering disability related questions
In addition to routine questions, you may or may not be asked some questions about your disability. By law, an interviewer may not ask about your disability; however, you can assume that even if an interviewer doesn’t mention your disability outright, he or she will ask you about your competence in specific job responsibilities. Bringing up your low vision or blindness can feel like a big hurdle, but if you don’t bring it up, chances are that an interviewer will leave the interview with unasked–and therefore unanswered–questions. Be prepared to discuss your disability with a functional disability statement. This kind of statement will focus on your ability to carry out the roles and responsibilities of the job. Components to a functional disability statement can include the following:
- Focus on your positive attributes;
- Avoid using medical jargon;
- Emphasize how you can do the job using compensatory skills;
- Address common misconceptions and
- Answer any questions you think the employer may hesitate to ask you.
Describing ways you use assistive technology or other adaptive methods may go a long way in easing the concerns of the employer. Be honest and provide information when answering such questions and how you plan on performing job tasks in a competitive manner.
Final steps
Upon concluding the interview, make sure to thank the individual for their time and consideration. Address your interviewer by name. You want to leave your interviewer with a positive image of you in their mind. Continue your rapport by making subtle inquiries into the interests of the person interviewing you. This will ensure a more lasting and memorable impression of you. Furthermore, ask what the next steps of the hiring process will be. Be sure to ask if and when you may check in on the interviewer’s hiring decision.
Follow-up to your interview is another crucial component of the process. Send a thank-you note by email within 24 hours of the interview if it is at all possible. It is always polite to officially thank the person for their time, and your note will also help your interviewer to remember you among many other job candidates.
If you do not hear anything back about the job position, occasional inquiries on any developments are okay; however, you do not want to be too persistent to the point where this behavior is viewed as annoying or an inconvenience. If you do not get the position, thank your interviewer again for considering you and ask to be kept in mind for any future opportunities. You can also ask for any other referrals to similar positions.
Finally, keep records of the interview for your benefit. Document who you interviewed with, the organization and position, wen the interview was conducted, and any other relevant information you think you should remember. This way you can also keep track of any follow up steps required in the process.
Keep in mind that a little preparation with the combination of just being yourself will go a long way. Don’t be too nervous. Even if you do not get the job, there is always the possibility of another opportunity. Don’t get discouraged and keep at it. Good luck and happy job hunting.
Like this article? Check out these others:
Highlighting Your Abilities: Talking to Prospective Employers About Blindness or Low Vision
Chronological Resumes vs. Functional Resumes: Which Type is Right for You?
Envision’s College Success Program (CSP), a part of the William L. Hudson BVI Workforce Innovation Center, is committed to serving college and transitioning high school students who are blind or low vision. The CSP is a virtual program that provides a holistic support system and engages students through online resources, events, mentorship, and more, all at no cost to them. Contact the CSP at csp@envisionus.com.