Searching for a job can be an extremely stressful experience. From filling out an application to finding the right interview outfit, there are many things to consider when moving forward with your career. For people with hearing loss, job searching can have additional challenges.
The job searching process will likely involve multiple phone calls, interviews and meetings before an offer is made. This constant communication can seem a little daunting to those with hearing loss, but there are some accommodations both you and your potential employer can make to lessen some of that job-searching stress. Let’s examine a couple of tips for making your experience a little easier.
Acknowledge Your Hearing Loss
Hearing loss can be a very personal experience, and you may not wish to disclose information about it to your potential employer, but there are some benefits to doing so. Disclosing your hearing loss gives your employer the opportunity to make ADA-mandated accommodations ahead of time, including but not limited to the following:
- Providing a qualified notetaker
- Providing a sign language interpreter
- Providing captioning software
- Providing written materials ahead of time
One or more of these accommodations may be helpful in your interview. Consider reaching out to your potential employer ahead of time to request one of the specific accommodations listed above or discuss other accommodations that best suit your needs. Approximately 15% of U.S. adults have some level of hearing loss. The prevalence of the condition means that most employers will be equipped to provide you with reasonable accommodation.
Practice for Your Interview
Many interviewers will ask similar questions about your work ethic and personality. Try writing out your answers to common interview questions ahead of time to give yourself a little more confidence when they’re asked.
Preparing for some common questions may also help fill in the gap if you feel you’ve missed some information, and when in doubt, don’t be afraid to ask for clarification or repetition of a question or point.
If you frequently experience interview stress, try picking up a cup of calming herbal tea from Kaleisia Tea Lounge to soothe your nerves before your big interview.
Wear Your Hearing Aids
Hearing aids are a powerful interview tool. The small but technologically advanced devices can amplify speech sounds and reduce ambient background noise, allowing you to better focus on and understand your interviewer.
Job searching with hearing loss can be stressful, but with a bit of preparedness and help, you can feel confident in your ability to land the job you want.
Contact Kampsen Hearing today for more information on managing your hearing loss.