WorkStreams Newsletter

Job Seeking for People with an Injury or Illness

Job seeking for people with an injury, illness or health condition can be a daunting task. However, with a clear understanding of your strengths and limitations, and a sound job-seeking plan, you can significantly increase your chances of obtaining and keeping suitable work.

Choosing the right job

Prepare carefully before commencing job seeking by following these steps.

Know your restrictions and their daily impact on you
Be clear on any special requirements that an employer will need to know about
Ensure that you can communicate these clearly to an employer
Gain a full understanding of your skills, interests and abilities.
Make a list of potential jobs, using such resources as the newspaper
Ensure that you can safely perform all or most of the tasks involved in any possible job. You can do this by talking to people in the industry to get an idea of what is actually required on the job, both mentally and physically.
When you have decided on a suitable job or goal, ensure that you have a current resume, which clearly identifies your skills.
Brush up on your interview skills.

Talking to employers

It is a challenge to talk to employers positively about your disability or condition.
However some prior planning and discussion will go a long way. Talk with your treating practitioner and/or rehabilitation consultant first and decide how best to present your situation.

Employers and employees have a Duty of Care. This means that you need to be able to perform the duties without jeopardising the safety of yourself or other workers.

Here are some general hints on talking with a potential employer about your condition or disability:

Face to face discussion gives a better opportunity to explain your skills and circumstances
Keep it brief
State clearly what your restrictions are
State clearly what special considerations you may need
Remember to highlight your skills and abilities
Remember never lie, don't dwell on your disability or injury and think positively.

Here are some additional ideas on how to discuss your situation in different circumstances:

1. On a job application form:

If asked the question - Do you have any health problems?
Possible responses(on the application form)

Not that will affect my ability to do the job
I will discuss this at an interview
Not applicable (to this job)
Leave it blank and explain verbally at the interview
Do not say "no" if the answer is "yes"

2. At an interview
Possible responses

I have had a medical condition in the past, but I have now recovered from this and will still be able to do the job required.
I have /have had a health condition in the past. Explain what this means/ has meant for you in practical terms (eg concentration, social skills, medication). However, I am keen to return to the workforce and am confident that I can perform this job safely and well.

3. After the job is offered/accepted
Possible Strategy
Choose an appropriate time to talk privately with the employer. If you have been in the position for a short time ask for feedback on your performance. At this time it might be appropriate to add: "I'd like to inform you that I have a condition called-------- and while this doesn't affect my work, it does mean (I need to take medication/I need to take regular breaks/ If you see these behaviours I would like you to do this---------.)"

This article is based on information sourced from Employment and Workplace Relations Services for Australians

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