Job Interviews (yech) How Much to Tell?

[billinSurbiton]

This is (almost) off topic, but you all are the best source of knowledge for even something like this:

Along with all this medical stuff, I was made redundant, and so I'm on the hunt for a new job; in fact, I would bet that the stress of unexpected redundancy was a trigger for the PMR--it certainly didn't help.

In an interview, how much would you choose to disclose about your diagnosis, treatment, etc? I've tried to keep it as light and quick as possible, such as "I have a Rheumatism-like condition which flairs up from time to time and makes it hard to walk or do heavy physical work, but the treatment should put it into remission in 6 months or so" - all delivered with a smile (hopefully a convincing one). I feel that this is an honest disclosure, without giving ammunition for deselecting me for the job. I am a teacher, however, and of course, I must be healthy enough to live up to my Duty of Care for the kiddies (and it may be primary or secondary, as I am a music teacher). Does anyone have any thoughts or experience on this tricky area?

Thanks again,

Bill

[PMRpro Ambassador]

PMR should be covered by disability legislation - GCA certainly is. Does that add brownie points for the employer?

[billinSurbiton in reply to PMRpro]

hmmmmmmm....I think it might.....

[SheffieldJane]

I formally worked in recruitment and I would say your way of describing the condition is a good one. They won’t press you on the details because of the Equalities Act. Just be sure, in your own mind that you are ready for this physical and mental challenge.

Does your PMR still make it hard to walk? I only had that symptom in the early weeks. I can walk on the flat for miles now. It is true to say that it is a painful condition and if it flares up you are easily fatigued. It also makes you very creative in finding solutions to the limitations it places upon you.

Good luck!

[Hidden]

Very tricky. Honesty & a Job. A personal decision about what you feel you can do( plus desperation) & them looking for what they want! No changes on this one in my experience.

Could you set up your own music teaching at home! Hope that helps.

[GOOD_GRIEF]

I wouldn't tell them anything at all unless the symptoms being exhibited that day are obvious. If they were, then I would say only that symptoms are intermittent, and that most often they are relieved by the course of treatment, and that none would impair my performance significantly.

Here in the US, they're only allowed to ask whether you need any accommodations to do the job as expected.

[Hidden]

It is a tricky as I think I mentioned before in a previous post. If you explain it as you have then at least you can get support in place. But there's no guarantees the employers won't be arses. I have always disclosed but that's because it was obvious as for years I have had to use a stick. There is legislation that is supposed to stop discrimination. I remember when I was trying to get a job closer to home and part time as I deteriorated some jobs guaranteed interviews to disabled applicants. I personally wasn't a fan but as I disclose I got loads of interviews but no job offers. Previous to stick and illness appearing I had been head hunted a couple of times but stayed where I knew (idiot). They do get brownie points for doing the fast tracking etc but it's hard to get a sense of how they really employ...talk to previous workers if you.know anyone from the school?

[nickm001]

You have to ask yourself if PMR will impact your job. If your answer is no, then I would not bring it. If you feel that your performance will be impacted, then it might be relevant to bring it up. You don't mention how long have you had PMR and what dosage are you on now... As the dose gets lower, it should get easier as far as physical activities related to job.

[patriciawhite]

I have Artheritis is all I say ,most people immediately sympathise and say''Oh yes I have a bad knee and rub the knee to show you how much they suffer lol ''They think that's it . You know what you can do and cope with .I have had to realise I can,t do a standing job or the driving job I did for last 12 years . I have taken a job in a call centre . I can cringe with the discomfort when I get home . If you teach, what about supply ? . You can take a break more often if you need to regenerate . Look at what you can do and see what there is to fit around that .