new job

[Donna]

Hi, I am looking for a new job. I am just trying to find out what most people tell new employers about your health? I don't think I should lie to them but do we have to tell them that we have HCM? I am afraid that they will not hire me if they think I will have an zapp. Has anyone had a problem with this? Any help you can give me would be great fully appreciated.

[adpsmp]

Hi Donna,

In my current position I do have some involvement in the hiring of new employees. We are not allowed to ask the individual their health status. Of course, if you are applying for a job where there is a certain amount of physical activity required (for example, you want to be a UPS driver and lift heavy boxes) then requiring you to complete some sort of physical capability test would be prudent and reasonable.

What kind of position are you applying for? If it is a non-exertion type of job (desk job) I don't see how they can ask you - and you wouldn't be under any requirement to inform them.

In my humble opinion - Andy P

[Lisa Salberg]

During the hiring process employers are only permitted to ask if you are able to preform the functions of the job (and they must explain the physical aspects... such as climb ladders, lift 20lbs, or what ever specific tasks needed) and ask can you do these functions with or without reasonable accomodation, which refers to the American with Disabilities Act. If you can do all of the functions of the job, with exception of, (for example) lifting and would need help on that part and it is not a "major" portion of the job you can simply say YES, you need not explain during the interview that you need an accomidation by means of assistance with that function. If for example the job is lifting boxes, you will have to say NO I can not.

Do not offer too much information. Most people with HCM can function rather normally in the work place.

Best wishes,
Lisa

[Donna]

Thank you for your letters and advice. I will keep it in mind when I am looking.

Andy, I am looking to get a job with the Post office. not to much lifting I would think.

Lisa, I thought you would have some good advice, being in the HR job for so long. I think I do have a problem with giving to much information sometimes. I just would not like to have someone think I lied about something. I have to learn the difference between a lie and to much information. once again thank you both for the information.

[Burton Borrok]

Hey Donna,
Why not take the same stand the Government advises - on a different issue of course - - Don't ask, Don't tell.

Interesting to hear you are looking for a job with the Post Office. How well can you shoot? :lol: :shock:
Burt

[Donna]

Burton, It is so good to have you on the board again. I have missed your wit, you make me smile.

I will take the don't ask don't tell approach. I can't shoot for beans. My husband has tried but I keep shutting my eyes when I pull the trigger. Maybe that is the way to get in to a postal job. I can't go postal on them if I can't shoot. :lol:

[Burton Borrok]

Good to 'see' you too Donna,

I tried to teach Shirley to shoot - with about the same effect. Then I got arthritis in both thumbs and shooting for me became a choice of last resort.

Going Postal does not require accuracy though. All you need is an automatic with a very large magazine - so you can spray the entire area.

Better yet, don't bother - just wear some armor.
Burt