INTERVIEWING WITH DYSLEXIA AND ADHD: 5 TIPS TO PREPARE

If you have Dyslexia or ADHD, the prospect of an upcoming job interview can be daunting. The thought of fielding questions from a potential employer can be intimidating for anyone. But for those with Dyslexia or ADHD, the situation carries an additional layer of anxiety due to inherent communication challenges. While it's true that interviews can be a stressful experience, there are steps you can take to make them a little less overwhelming. Here are five tips for preparing for an interview with Dyslexia and/or ADHD. 


1. Practice Your Answers Ahead of Time: One of the best ways to prepare for an interview is to practice your answers ahead of time. This will not only help you feel more confident in your responses, but it will also help ensure that your answers are clear and concise. Take some time to think through possible questions that may arise during the interview process, and then practice answering them out loud so you become comfortable with speaking in public. 


2. Research the Company: Another great way to prepare for an upcoming job interview is to do some research on the company itself. Knowing as much as possible about the company's mission and values will not only help you answer any questions related to those topics, but it will also show the interviewer that you’re genuinely interested in working for their organization. 


3. Bring Visual Aids With You: For those who have difficulty communicating verbally, bringing visual aids such as charts, graphs, or even PowerPoint presentations can be a great way to show off your knowledge without having to rely on verbal cues alone. Not only will this provide a tangible demonstration of your understanding of certain topics being discussed during the interview, but it will also give you something other than words to focus on if communication becomes difficult at any point during the conversation. 


4. Use Strategies To Help Focus Attention: It’s common for people with ADHD or Dyslexia to have difficulty focusing on one task at a time – especially when they’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed by their environment. If this applies to you, consider utilizing strategies like deep breathing exercises or mindfulness techniques before (and even during) your job interview in order to help yourself stay focused and calm throughout the entire process. 


5. Ask For Accommodations If Necessary: Don't be afraid to ask for accommodations if needed! Employers are required by law (in many countries)to provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities in order to ensure equal access throughout all stages of the hiring process – including interviews – so don't hesitate to inquire about what accommodations may be available if needed!  


Interviews can certainly be intimidating experiences—especially if you're someone with Dyslexia or ADHD—but they don't have to! With proper preparation and knowledge of how these conditions may affect communication during an interview setting, employers should have no problem understanding why it might take extra effort on their part in order to make sure everyone has equal access throughout all stages of the hiring process! Ultimately, remember that employers want qualified candidates just like everyone else—so don't let fears about interviewing with Dyslexia or ADHD stop you from pursuing job opportunities that could lead towards success down the road!   Good luck!

TwitterFacebook

Related Articles

WHAT MANAGERS COMPLAIN ABOUT 

2/6/2023

Have you ever wondered what hiring managers complain about behind closed doors? No matter how perfect your resume is, there are still some elements that can turn off a hiring manager. 

THE TOP 5 INTERVIEW MISTAKES TO AVOID

1/31/2023

Landing a job interview is an exciting step in your career journey. However, you need to be aware of the common mistakes that many candidates make during job interviews so that you can avoid them.  

INTERVIEWING WITH DYSLEXIA AND ADHD: 5 TIPS TO PREPARE

1/20/2023

While it's true that interviews can be a stressful experience, there are steps you can take to make them a little less overwhelming. 

Jess Jarmo - Career Coach

About jess jarmo

I guide candidates successfully through transforming their careers and amplifying their passion. My unique ability is to help uncover career blind spots and guide my clients to their unique genius zone.

Read more