Hi, Edie, Last time we spoke you were preparing for an interview and curious how to handle the question of upcoming chemo and radiation. How did the interveiw go? Have you been able to secure that job, or another one? Treatments? Get in touch and let us all know how you are doing. Kathy

Congratulations on landing that interview! This is both an exciting and personally challenging time for you, so I am sure you have some apprehension about handling the interview, especially in light of the uncertainty of the chemo and radiation you are facing. Here are some suggestions, but keep in mind, only you will know what feels right for you and your own personal circumstances.

First, remember that the initial interview is only one of several steps in the job search screening and selection process. It can actually take between 2 and 4 months from initial screening interview to offer, so no need to reveal too much up front. Your job in this first meeting is to wow the interviewer and to learn as much as you can about the job as you can so that you, too, can make a decision about the best fit.

I usually advise candidates to prepare for this interview by reading over the job description and the other materials you have gathered about the firm. Then, prepare your answers to likely interview questions by thinking through your strengths, skills and experience in light of the requirements of the job and what the interviewer will be seeking. Prepare your answer to the initial question,"Tell me about yourself. " by providing your background, education, experience highlights and why you are interested in the role for which you are interviewing.

Then prepare a question that you tag on to the end of your answer. It should go something like this," What can you tell me about the kind of person who you see best filling this role?" The interviewer's answer to that question will give you all the information you need to best position yourself in the remaining time you have for that interview.

Approach this initial interview like you would a first date. Put your best foot forward, but no need to reveal all there is to know about you. Think about how to present your skills and experience in light of what the employer needs. If you keep those needs in the forefront, you will wow the interviewer with your ability to place yourself in the role as you speak.

No need to discuss any upcoming medical treatments or your medical condition in general at the initial interview. Remember, on a first date, you would not necessarily bring up issues about past loves, would you? Same goes for the first interview and your personal situation, regardless of what it is.

There will be time enough to discuss your situation once you pass this first screen. If you are invited back for a second interview, or are offered the position after the first interview (something very rare in today's job market) then you may wish to let the interviewer know that you may have some time related issues to contend with for a few weeks.

It may also be possible that the interview cycle for this position will be longer than the time it takes for you to complete treatment. As I mentioned above, some professional jobs take a long time to fill, so any candidate could expect an interval of 2 - 4 months between first interview and final offer. If this is the case, once you receive an offer, you may be able to delay your start until after treatment is over, or at least until after your chemo rounds are complete.

Everyone responds to treatment in a different manner. You may find that you sail through without any glitches at all. If this is the case, no need to discuss your treatments up front. But if you may need accommodations at the beginning of the job, then working with the firm's HR department if there is one, or the hiring manager in a smaller firm without an HR department should help you get a good start in your new job.

Good luck on this interview! With a confident and professional approach, you'll be sure to get an invitation to a second interview, and you'll be one step closer to landing that job.

Warm regards,
Kathy

The good news is that you are getting interviews. Congratulations on making it to that stage of the job search! That means that you have some good experience and strong resume that sets you apart from the pack. But in spite of that great experience, those difficult questions can throw you for a loop, especially when they touch on areas that are sensitive or have the potential to derail a positive experience if mishandled.

One of the things to keep in mind is that it is very common for individuals to change jobs, to stop out of the workplace for personal or family reasons or to go back to school. So, if asked about gaps in your employment history, be ready with a short, clear answer that does not go into detail about the difficulties of your cancer treatment. Then redirect the conversation with a question of your own that focuses on finding out more about the employer's needs.

Some examples of possible answers could be:

"I took some personal time to rethink my career and brush up my skills in the area of .....and now find that that time allowed me to refocus. I am very excited about using my skills to add value in a firm such as yours. Can you tell me more about.....?"

"I had some family (and/or) health issues to settle. I am happy to report that all is now on an even keel and I am ready and eager to bring my skills to bear in a position such as ..... With the distraction behind me, I am sure I will be a strong asset to my next employer. What else can you tell me about the role?"

Or, your could try being very direct yet positive. "I faced cancer and won. I am proud to say that I am a survivor. I learned a lot from my experience, it has made me appreciate what I can contribute in the world. I am eager to make a difference in a role such as the one we are discussing today."

You can probably tell from the examples I offered that the focus should not be on the cancer, but on the future and what you have to bring to the table. Each person will have to decide how much or how little to reveal about their illness and recovery. Think through your own situation, assess your own comfort level in discussing your past health history, and craft a short, positive answer that focuses on what you have to offer a potential employer. Just like in your recovery, focusing on the future and the possibilities for making a contribution can generate excitement, not only in you, but in future employers as well. Best of luck to you as you continue your search!