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My CollegeRecruiter.com | Employers & Advertisers
Question:
I have a 90 decibel hearing loss. One hundred decibels is considered deaf. Should I mention this on my resume or on my job applications?
First Answer:
I am sure some of the others might have more to say on this matter. My first reaction is that of a cardinal rule--WHEN ATTEMPTING TO GET IN THE DOOR, NEVER GIVE THEM A REASON TO SHUT YOU OUT BEFORE YOU EVEN HAVE A CHANCE. A disability, legally or not, is a reason for them to shut you out.
When applying for a specific job, you may also wish to inquire about a complete job description. May organizations and companies will, to avoid any legal issues about discrimination against people with disabilities, specifically list out job functions that require certain physical abilities (sit, bend over, drive, walk, etc.).
-- Keith F. Luscher, Creative Director with Goettler Associates, Inc., a fund-raising consulting firm serving non-profit organizations nationwide, and author of Don't Wait Until You Graduate!
Second Answer:
The rule of thumb is - do not mention a disability unless it directly adversely affects the position you are applying for. In other words, does your hearing loss interfere with your ability to do the job you are applying for? If the answer is NO, I would not put it on my resume or application. BUT I WOULD BE PREPARED TO ADDRESS it at an interview. In fact, I would suggest being the one to bring it up along with information and statistics that will help the employer understand the disability and how it does not interfer with your ability to do the job. If the answer is YES, then I would suggest some vocational counseling to help you explore occupations where your hearing loss will not interfer with your ability to do the job.
-- Linda Wyatt, Career Center Director, Kansas City Kansas Community College
Third Answer:
This is a trickly one and I think it depends largely upon the job you're applying for, and the employer. If you are applying for jobs for which you can reasonably perform the duties required of you despite your hearing loss, then I don't see any reason to mention this. Even if you do require "accommodation" (e.g., hearing aids or other devices to help you hear) most employers except for perhaps the very tiny (those with less than 10 employees) must still consider you for a job if you are qualified in all other ways, and make allowances and/or provide equipment or helpers as long as you can perform all duties with these additional accomodations. On the other hand, since most offices require the use of phones and other equipment for which adequate hearing is essential, only you can decide carefully what jobs to apply for. Make it clear in the interview what you would work well despite your hearing loss, and emphasize all your other qualities that will help the employer get the job done!
-- Alison Blackman Dunham, life & career expert, columnist, personal public relations consultant, half of THE ADVICE SISTERS®, and the author of the ASK ALISON career advice column
Fourth Answer:
Your honesty and conscientiousness will serve you well. You are aware of the limitations your hearing loss places on you, if any. With that in mind you are probably applying for jobs where you feel your hearing loss won't effect your job performance. Let your resume and application reflect why you feel you are the right candidate for the job. I have never seen a resume that indicates whether a person wears glasses, has a limp, is overweight, etc. The time to be forthcoming is on the interview, where your dedication and integrity will be seen. If you are scheduled for a phone interview and feel that your hearing loss will prevent you from performing at your peak, then say something.
If you are still wondering, work with a professional coach who can guide you through the process easier and faster. I am offering a 20% discount on one month of coaching to anyone who mentions this newsletter article.
-- Janine A. Schindler, Professional Coach and owner of the Jas Coaching Company
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