"I am not different from you, I am different like you." - Jonah Ssenyange
Navigating the workplace as a person with a disability can bring up many questions, with one of the most crucial being whether to disclose your disability to an employer or keep it private.
Disclosing a disability to an employer, or anyone else in your circle, is a deeply personal decision that requires careful consideration. There is no universal decision right or wrong way to disclose your disability.
In a world that continues to embrace differences and celebrate diversity and inclusion, disability disclosure has become a growing trend among many working people with disabilities, and Employment Equity Hiring Policies are becoming more prevalent.
Let’s explore three compelling reasons to disclose—or not disclose—your disability and strategies to help you decide!
Reason 1: Weighing the Pros & Cons
Sharing your disability means you are living your most authentic life—but there are things to consider before doing so, unless you have a visible disability where discussion is unavoidable.
There are both benefits and drawbacks to disclosing your disability. On the one hand, disclosure can ensure that you receive the support and workplace accommodations you need to succeed in your role. On the other hand, there may be fears of discrimination or bias, particularly if your disability is not visible.
It's crucial to weigh these factors and make a decision that aligns with your comfort level and professional goals.
Ask yourself these questions on whether to disclose:
Do you need an accommodation for the interview?
Do you require specific accommodations to perform your job effectively?
Will not disclosing cause more harm to your health or well-being?
Does being transparent help to prevent misunderstandings and build trust with your employer?
Remember, it's your choice whether or not to disclose, but if you need accommodations to do your job, it is vital to communicate how your potential employer can support you.
Reason 2: You're the Expert Here—Experts Always Come with Solutions
Think of yourself as expert on your own symptoms and needs. You know exactly what works for you, so why not show off your expertise? Don’t wait for employers to guess—bring your own “user manual” to the table, complete with all the hacks and cheat codes they’ll need to help you shine.
The timing of your disclosure can significantly impact the outcome. You might choose to disclose during different stages of the job application process, such as in the cover letter, during the interview, or after receiving a job offer. Consider when you feel most comfortable and confident discussing your disability.
Effective Strategies for Disclosure:
Highlight your strengths and abilities.
Clearly name your disability and explaining how it impacts your work.
Discuss any accommodations you might need and how they will enable you to perform your job effectively.
Focus back to your qualifications and the value you bring to the company.
Employers are people too, and like anyone else, they may have misconceptions about things they’re not familiar with. These misunderstandings can create barriers to effectively showing them that you're fully capable of doing the job.
That’s why it’s so important to take the opportunity to educate your employer about your disability and clear up any misconceptions.
Asking, “Are you familiar with this disability?” opens the door for a conversation where you can educate the employers about your specific needs and how they relate to the job. By doing so, you help them see past the myths and focus on what truly matters—your skills, qualifications, and ability to succeed in the role.
Reason 3: It's Your Disability, Own Your Story
By sharing your disability and story, whether visible or an invisible disability (as it’s certainly not invisible to you!), you’re not just advocating for yourself—you’re using your superpowers to help others who may still be figuring out theirs. So, go ahead and reveal your true identity—you never know who you might inspire!
Your raising awareness and sharing knowledge about your disability, but let’s be clear, education also belongs in the hands of the employer; you are only responsible for your own needs to support your work- the same disability may not require the same accommodations as others with the same diagnosis.
The Bottom Line
Either way, disclosing your disability could help you navigate the workplace and live more authentically as the person you were born to be, and the life you want to live! Ultimately, the choice will always be yours; so, trust your instincts.
By embracing and disclosing your disability:
You empower yourself.
You become a mentor and support for others working and living with a disability.
You help employers and your workplace embrace diversity and inclusion; which statistical show a higher rate of productivity.
Need More Help Navigating Disability Disclosure?
Here at TEAM Work Cooperative, we have years of experience working with people with disabilities. As an organization that started as an employment centre for persons with disabilities, we have the expertise, resources, and compassion to support you in reaching your career goals.
If you are still unsure about whether or how to disclose your disability in the workplace, we are here to help. Our “Disclosure: Talking About Your Disability” workshop covers everything you need to know to approach this conversation confidently and ensure a positive outcome. Click here to register for the workshop and take the next step toward your dream job.
About Hannah Hefler
Born a Prairie girl in Alberta, and raised a Maritimer, Hannah has called Nova Scotia her home for over 30 years. Her dedication and passion for helping others come from her own personal experiences. Hannah believes that everyone deserves to have a meaningful career and will help you think out of the box to achieve it if that’s what it takes!
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