Finally a good lead

[Robby]

So after some false starts I finally have a lead on a job that would be mostly perfect for me. It's as a page in a public library. Yea, it's not some fancy big paying job, and it's only part time, but I am stoked. I know the library well I've been a patron there for years, so I know the layout, plus all I'd be doing would be shelving books, very doable, very good environment for me to go at a decent pace while getting some work experience. And best of all, no auditory processing required, or customer service!

I interviewed for the same job at a different branch a year ago, and got the offer, but at the time I didn't accept due to needing some dental procedures done. Now, I am finally getting to interview with them again. I think the job would be perfect for me.

I'm interviewing with them next week. I really want and need this job. Any tips for me? I usually am a good interviewer. The library is known in my area as a very inclusive employer, so should I maybe mention my autism just maybe to up my chances? Or not mention it until after hired on. Other than that question, I am excited about this I really hope I get it.

 

[Judge]

The library is known in my area as a very inclusive employer, so should I maybe mention my autism just maybe to up my chances?

Don't do it. Need-to-know basis only. You can never assume a prospective employer's understanding of autism unless you have explicit prior knowledge of such a thing with that particular employer.

Imagine if they then asked you if you were dyslexic as well. Probably won't go over well with the Dewey Decimal System. Not that it is necessarily related to autism, but you see what I'm driving at? It all comes down to just how "inclusive", understanding and knowledgeable they actually are about autism itself.

 

[Robby]

Thanks, yea my inclination is always to say nothing and not mention it at all. That being said, when I interviewed a year ago, normally I don't mention this at all, but during the interview they asked me about a situation at work where I had disagreements with someone and how did I handle it, I mentioned that as an openly gay man, I am often the target of hostility or misunderstanding, but I turned it into a positive to say that I just do my job regardless and not let other people's negativity or ignorance affect my job performance in anyway. They seemed to appreciate that.

I do agree with you about the autism thing. I never mention it, because they might think something's wrong with me and hold that against me and plus it's none of anyone's business. People should never tell any employer they have a disability. They might then think you're stupid or be quicker to call you out on stuff. Best to play it cool.

 

[Judge]

People should never tell any employer they have a disability. They might then think you're stupid or be quicker to call you out on stuff. Best to play it cool.

Not sure if I'd go quite that far. But in this case such an employer is looking for a certain degree of mental and visual competency. The ability to process books in a very specific- and organized manner. Where you don't want them asking all kinds of questions which may or may not be relative to your neurology- or your competence.

Yeah...play it cool.