The idea of job searching puts many into an immediate state of stress. Numerous hand-wringing aspects accompany a job search, from filling out and editing your resume to interviews and choosing first-day outfits from Uli’s Santa Fe. For those with hearing loss, these stressors can carry even greater weight.
Let’s look at a couple of common worries about job searching with hearing loss and how you can begin to conquer them.
“I’m Worried I Won’t Understand The Interviewer”
Concern over understanding the interviewer is one of the most common worries when discussing job searching with hearing loss. When the slightest mistake can cost you a job, it is reasonable to be concerned about mishearing your interviewer. Luckily, there are a couple of ways you can counteract this fear, including:
- Wear hearing aids. Hearing aids help reduce the likelihood of miscommunication by collecting and amplifying speech directly into your ear canal. The devices may be small, but their impact on your job interview can be massive.
- Use speech-to-text software. Speech-to-text software is best paired with video interviews. The software will collect speech and transcribe it on the screen in front of you. Although it is not always a perfect transcription, it can help clarify or resolve miscommunications quickly.
- Discuss your hearing loss. Openly discussing your hearing loss before the interview will help prepare the interviewer for potential misunderstandings and let them know that you may occasionally need them to repeat themselves.
“My Hearing Loss Makes Me Less Likely To Get The Job”
Fear that your hearing loss will take you out of the running for a job is not uncommon. To help dissuade this fear, take the time to learn your rights as an ADA-protected individual. The ADA, or Americans with Disabilities Act, requires that all ADA-protected individuals receive equal treatment and opportunity in the job application process and beyond. Furthermore, all employers are required to provide reasonable accommodations to potential employees. Reasonable accommodations may include the use of an ASL interpreter, notetaker, speech-to-text software and more.
Concerns over your ability to understand your interviewer or receive equal treatment are valid, but they shouldn’t stop you from pursuing your dream job. To learn more about managing your hearing loss, contact Southwestern Hearing & Balance today to make an appointment with one of our specialists.