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Home > Ask A Career Coach > Interviewing for new job

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Interviewing for new job

Susan L. on October 20, 2010

Interviewing

I finished chemo in July & finished radiation in September, but still only have about 1/2" of hair, if that. I've been unemployed for almost 2 years, so I really need a job now. I have an appointment for an interview tomorrow (Thurs 10/21) and am in a panic as to what to do with my almost-bald head. I am very self-conscious about my lack of hair, as I've always had long hair until now. The last time I wore a wig to a job interview it fell off my head & landed in my lap right there in the interview office...you can just imagine how that went. I always wear my baseball cap whenever I leave my house, but I'm sure that is inappropriate for a job interview. My husband thinks I should brave it & go to the interview tomorrow au natural, but I really don't think I have the nerve. On the other hand, I definitely don't have the nerve to face the possibility of my wig lying in my lap again. Any suggestions, or tips on how to handle this impending interview? Do I have to tell the interviewer that I have cancer? What about discrimination & legalities? Please HELP!



2 Comments

Image of Julie Jansen

Julie Jansen

Oct 20, 2010

Career Coach Comment:

Hi Susan,

It is Wednesday night and your interview is tomorrow. I think that you have to decide what will cause you the most stress...going au natural or wearing a wig. My gut is wear your wig. I assume you have a wig? Worse case, your potential employer wonders to him/her self about your hair (if it's a man, maybe he won't even notice :-)) but going with very short hair will create more attention.

Good luck on the interview! Be yourself, smile, ask smart questions and you will do well!

Take care,

Julie


Image of Alice McKenney

Alice McKenney

Oct 20, 2010

Cancer and Careers Staff Comment:

Hi Susan,

I have sent your question along to one of our career coaches, but in the mean time if you have any legal questions I recommend contacting the Cancer Legal Resource Center, we work with them a lot. Their contact info is below.

Contact:

Toll Free: (866) THE-CLRC or (866) 843-2572

Phone: (213) 736-1455

TDD: (213) 736-8310

Fax: (213) 736-1428

Email: CLRC@LLS.edu

http://www.cancerlegalresourcecenter.org/

Warmly,

Alice


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