To Tell or Not to Tell: Disability Disclosure and the Job Interview

Abstract

The focus is on the issue of disability disclosure by a job applicant with a visible disability. Twenty-one men and women having visual, auditory, or orthopedic disabilities and holding professional or managerial positions offer their perspectives, based on personal experience. The issue is perceived as complex and important, having profound implications both personally and professionally. Disclosing the disability before the job interview was the preferred strategy for most. Advantages and disadvantages are discussed.