I'm applying for a job, when should I disclose?

(Part two in a three-part series on disclosing)

Last week we looked at whether to disclose/discuss your disability. Now let's look at "when" is the best time for this discussion.

Typically there are a few opportunities to disclose during the recruiting process;  while applying, prior to interviewing,  or once you get an offer.

So, when is the best time depends on why you are disclosing.

~ If you are disclosing because you will need an accommodation during an interview (e.g. more time on a test, accessible travel arrangement, a translator) you will want to bring it up before the interview.

~ If you are submitting an application, and want to better explain something that may be disability-related to enhance your chances of getting the interview (e.g. your have a lower GPA or you took a year off from school), then you may want to explain a bit about your disability in a cover letter.

~ If you know that you will need accommodations at work, but not during the interview process, you may wait until after you receive a job offer.

If you do decide to disclose, what you DON'T want to do is wait until the last minute:

~ Don't wait until you get to the interview to ask for more time on a test or ask for a translator. Then the focus of the interview will be on your disability rather than your qualifications. They could even feel set-up or lost trust.

~ If you know you will need an accommodation on day one of a new job, ask for that ahead of time. Right after you receive the job offer is usually a good time. This gives the employer an opportunity to research and prepare.

Not sure what accommodations you may need? Talk to the recruiter or people who have gone through the interview process and find out what the interview involves. Learn details on the organization's environment and what the day-to-day involves. Speak to others with your same disability and find out what accommodations they requested. And, here is a database with accommodation suggestions.

So, we've looked at whether to disclose and when to disclose, next week we'll discuss how to disclose/discuss when you choose to.

Please do share your disclosure stories with us!