People often wonder whether they should disclose a hidden disability (i.e. epilepsy, diabetes, depression, etc.) during the resume writing process. The short answer to this question is no; however, as with many other things in life, the decision remains entirely up to the individual. In the United States employers are not allowed to ask questions regarding disabilities, either on applications or during the interviewing process; the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) makes asking these questions illegal. Here are a few things to think about when deciding whether or not to disclose your particular condition:
The purpose of a resume is to obtain an interview with a potential employer; if disclosing a disability may hamper your chance of getting that interview, leaving this information out is advisable. Though the ADA makes discriminating due to disability illegal, potential employers may be put off by this and use a different reason for not granting you an interview.
Disclosing a disability is not recommended in resume writing; however, if you feel that your disability is something you want to share with a potential employer, you could do so in your cover letter. Keep in mind though you want your cover letter and resume reflecting your qualifications, not your limitations.
Often, people with “hidden” disabilities have gaps in employment history; using a chronological resume may not be as good of a choice as one that highlights your experience and achievements (skills-based or functional resumes are a better choice). Though asking specifically about disabilities is prohibited by law, a potential employer does have the right to ask questions about gaps in employment; if you decide not to disclose your disability, plan ahead as to how you will answer these questions. If you do decide to disclose, now might be a good time to do so.
In short, disability disclosure in resume writing is; not recommended; however the decision ultimately rests on each individual. Disabilities, even if the disease or condition is the same, affect everyone differently; knowing yourself and exactly how your disability affects you is really the only way to know whether or not to share this very personal information with potential employers.
Wise words of advice from the gentleman who created the OneClick Cover Letter Creator. Check out my review of it here.
Because each person and employer are unique, investing the time to write a focused resume pays off. Find out more about resume writing and get the power words that get you interviews at the ResumeDictionary.com. Copyright 2010 by Phil Baker – author of the bestseller: Employer Secrets. Freely distribute this article but please leave article, author name, copyright info, and links intact.
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