Inclusion
Career support for students with disabilities
A successful interview is a two way process:
1. The interviewer finds out whether or not you match their requirements. These vary from job to job, but typically include the following:
2. For you this is an opportunity to assess the organisation - are they offering what you want?
Practice interviews can be arranged by contacting the Careers Support Service. Some students find video interviews particularly useful. This provides an opportunity to review your performance with a Mentor or Careers Adviser, and receive valuable feedback.
Talk to your Careers Advisor in advance to discuss any special requirements that you may have. Remember that many organisations are very keen to develop diverse workforces. If you have special needs on access provision, advise the interviewer in advance or request your Careers Advisor to do so on your behalf.
Do not assume that the interview will be a negative experience. If you have been invited for interview that means that you have been selected as a candidate worth considering for the position. You have already overcome the first hurdle now you can approach the interview with confidence. For interesting information on how to deal with a job interview when you have a chronic illness see www.lupusmn.org.
Be prepared for the interviewer to ask you about your disability but do not allow an interviewer to make your disability or health problem the focus of the interview.
Above all, be positive about your skills and abilities; demonstrate with examples that your disability has not limited your personal achievements and study or work experience.
Students with disabilities should have early and frequent contact with the Careers Service. The Careers Support Service was set up to address the individual and diverse needs of students with disabilities. Click on Career Appointments to arrange a meeting.