[nabs] jobs and interviews

[Ashley Bramlett]

Olivia,
Great points.  How did you relax though in the interview?  I wonder how much to rehearse commonly expected questions and what to just talk about on the spot like a general conversation.

Also, what happened to the job at the hospital?  Which one was it and what did you do?  Did they provide jaws for you?  I was thinking of volunteering at a hospital doing office tasks as I look for a job.  Volunteering is good because its more experience and may lead to a job as yours did.  With this economy I think it will be a while before getting a job.

Ashley
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Olivia Norman 
  To: Discussion list for NABS,National Alliance of Blind Students. 
  Sent: Sunday, May 02, 2010 7:41 PM
  Subject: Re: [nabs] jobs and interviews


  Hi Ashley:
  I went on a lot of unsuccessful interviews before this one.  The two interviews I had this week were remarkably different from anything I've ever experienced before.  Other interviews I've been on have been really awkward because the interviewer was uncomfortable discussing my blindness, I didn't want to discuss it if they didn't and it was kind of like the elephant in the room so to speak.  
  These interviews were different because the interviewers were clearly at their ease with me, and I was at my ease with them. They made me feel comfortable from the second I walked in to the second I walked.  We touched upon my blindness, but when we did, it was seen by them as an asset and when I mentioned something I was worried about the interviewer said, "Well, we are all a team, we work together and help one another out." or words to that affect. Every other interview when I've been asked these questions there's been this long awkward pause, because it was like people just didnt want to talk about anything relating to my blindness.  Apple was just so completely and totally different from anything I've seen before.  
  I guess my best advice is to be relaxed, if you're nervous, the interviewer will pick up on that and it will make things difficult for you.  I was completely relaxed at this interview and I feel like it made a huge difference.  Also, find out as much as you can about the company before you go on the interview, so that you're ready to ask good questions.  Don't give up, and keep trying, if you find a company you like, that's always a plus because it means you know about their products, services, or what have you. 
  I am sure you have heard all this advice countless times, and I wish I had something new to offfer. I will say that so many jobs come through timing, luck, and when you least expect them to. I know this has been my experience.
  I hope this helps, good luck on the search! I know first hand how discouraging and frustrating it can be!
  Olivia
  "Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower" Steve Jobs 


  On May 2, 2010, at 7:25 PM, <bookwormahb at earthlink.net> <bookwormahb at earthlink.net> wrote:


    Hi all,
    I'm also looking for a job; I finished my degree last year.  Its a bad time with the economy, but we'll see.  I'm looking for entry level jobs for administrative assistant, receptionist, or clerical since that is what I'm qualified for.  My studies were psychology and communication.  I'm also networking with friends but those that are working say no jobs are available where they are and many companies are downsizing.  I also have coworkers I worked with in the government looking out for me; I had internships with a few offices.

    Any advice?  How long are interviews?  When you do get interviewed do they ask much about your vision?  I would hope they would treat you normally and focus on your abilities.  I don't mind discussing accomodations and how I could do the job but I don't want to get too into details of a disability.

    Also, if you went to job fairs, were you with someone?  Due to the crowd I think its helpful to go with someone.  If you went to them, were they helpful and how?

    Thanks.
    Ashley
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