For the past few weeks, I have been suffering with my allergies. My eyes are red, swollen, and tear. I can hardly talk. I cough, sneeze and have a headache. This year is really bad and my normal medication has proven to be not very effective. What does this have to do with job seeking?
Well consider the following. Having severe allergies impacts every aspect of the job interview. My ability to communicate is has been compromised by not hearing clearly and having a sore throat. My appearance is involved because my eyes are red, swollen and weeping. Being a woman, this affects my self confidence because either I don't wear make-up or fear that I look like a vampire. Coughing and sneezing during an interview can put off the most even the most laid back human resources personnel. Being able to focus and think quickly could become an issue because the medication can leave me feeling drowsy and because I am not sleeping well.
So, how can this situation be handled? Taking over the counter medication could reduce symptoms but be aware of any side effects. Depending on your reaction you could give the impression that you are under the influence. This could be particular problematic is the interviewer isn't aware that you are taking medication for a cold. Another concern would be demonstrating your ability to operate machinery during the interview if this is requested because many over the counter medications impair your ability to focus. If you think that you can get your condition under control within a day or two perhaps you could call and postpone your interview. If your condition will be ongoing or if there is a limited window of opportunity to apply for the position then being direct could be the better option. Tell the interviewer that you have allergies and your concerns regarding an in-person interview. Offer options such as doing the interview by phone or skype. Be aware that the questions regarding your ability to attend work due to health could be silently raised. Assure the interviewer that this is a seasonal allergy by stating what triggers your symptoms and the steps that you take to avoid getting ill. You could point out that the pollen level is rated unusually high and that attendance has not been an issue for you in the past. Again, be able to substantiate that claim.
Everyone is allergic to something! Everyone gets ill. You could explain your situation and request their understanding during the interview and participate. Request, the opportunity to take periodic breaks so that you can address your needs and wash your hands. Bring a Ziploc back for used tissues and use a hand sanitizer after blowing your nose. If you are like me and really bloooow your nose consider having nice dinner napkins rather than the standard size tissue in order to avoid having embarrassing leaks while blowing. This behavior will indicate that you are conscientious about spreading germs to your co-workers.
If your ability to communicate or concentrate have been compromised, ask the interviewer if you could provide more detailed answers by email within the next 24 hours. If they agree to this request do not provide responses that indicate that you used the time for research.
Having a cold or hay fever do not necessarily meet the criteria for a disability under the American with Disabilities Act. Furthermore, you are not an employee nor have you been offered a position so again accommodations do not have to be provided so be very polite and apologetic because you are asking a favor not a job accommodation or an EEO benefit.
But what is the table is turned and the interviewer is the person that is ill? Be understanding and supportive but don't offer medical advice. Try not make faces or look disgusted because this is rude. Finally, assume that they might not be able to focus or remember the interview clearly so be certain to include something in your follow-up letter to help the interviewer be able to identify you.
