An advance visit to the interview location provides two important previews. First, you may monitor how employees dress to ensure your attire is appropriate. Second, you may gauge your transportation time. Both enhance your chance of success on the day of your interview.

Create a personal portfolio by accumulating a sampling of your work. This may include reports, emails, or other accolades. In the future, this effort will greatly enhance your presentation during a performance review or job interview.

Set aside a regular reading schedule to stay informed of what is happening in your field professionally.

Always eat a snack before attending a business reception. This will enable you to focus on making personal contacts rather than becoming preoccupied with the buffet!

Know your interviewer’s full name, title, and role within the organization.

Pack a copy of your resume for yourself to refer during the interview.

Emphasize accomplishment by citing specific examples during your responses.

Avoid negative statements about present or previous employers.

Avoid initiating conversations about salary expectations during the first interview.

During the interview, think of yourself as a slice of bread. Reveal only those ‘slices’ of yourself which are relevant to the job performance.

Identify the core job functions of the job by reviewing the job description to educate you about potential accommodations for ADA-covered disabilities. Be prepared to provide a doctor’s recommendation to ensure the accommodation offered is based upon accurate medical information.

Voluntary self-disclosure of personal information, such as a medical diagnosis, is not relevant to job performance. Consequently, it should remain confidential.

Consider the full spectrum of work alternatives when seeking employment. Flexible, part-time work options may be found in small or family-owned businesses. Also, consider establishing a home-based business. Such opportunities are often more compatible with accommodating special needs, such as medical requirements, than traditional, corporate environments.

You may need to expand your network of contacts. Also, you may want to affiliate with a temporary agency. Online job databases are also helpful.

Despite ADA, discrimination against people with disabilities does exist. During your interview, educate your potential employer about your ability to perform the core job functions successfully.

Interviews differ from normal social situations! To be successful, you must accept the responsibility to prepare to make a presentation that will create a positive impression.