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Human rights legislation in Canada prohibits employers from discriminating against persons with disabilities. However, many people with disabilities believe that revealing their disability will jeopardize their chances of being offered an interview or a position. Some people will only disclose if the job posting directly encourages persons with disabilities to apply.
Some employers have implemented initiatives for hiring persons with disabilities. In these cases, it is preferable to disclose disabilities in a cover letter or résumé from the start.
An employer will not hire an individual simply because they have a disability. Employers need to hire the candidate who has the best skills for the job. The key is to get employers to recognize the skills, abilities and contributions a person with a disability can make to a company.
Deciding whether or not to discuss your disability is difficult. How you choose to handle disclosure depends on your disability, the employer, the job, if accommodations will be required and other aspects of the given situation.
Remember, as a Triumph client, you have access to a team with the experience to help you make the best decisions for your employment goal.
Tips, Options and Advice on Disclosing
- If you are comfortable discussing your disability, it will make the employer more at ease and will bridge understanding.
- If you've had little or no success in disclosure situations, or feel uncomfortable, you may want to explore Triumph's Disability Management workshops. It's also a good idea to try role-playing the disclosure process with supportive friends or family members.
- Be positive. Focus on your skills and qualifications and never present your disability as a weakness.
- You may feel your disability has helped you become more flexible, adaptable, innovative and adept at problem solving. If so, when asked about your strengths, don't forget to mention these qualities; they can be a real asset to any employer.
- Be prepared to address any concerns employers may express, even if they are not expressed directly.
- Know what workplace accommodations you may require, including their availability, cost and what funding programs the employer can access.
- Anticipate the employer's reaction, possible questions and how you will answer the questions; use examples.
- Once you've reached a decision about disclosure, ask yourself this: "Will disclosing my disability at this time and in this way help me reach my vocational goal?" Still unsure? Please contact your Triumph Vocational Coach.
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