Hi Malika,

Thanks for reaching out to us. I sent your post to one of our career coaches who will be in touch soon.

In the meantime, I would recommend reading our article on "the Swivel", which is a technique we teach to answer difficult questions in an interview: http://www.cancerandcareers.org/en/looking-for-work/interviewing/the-swivel.

I would also recommend reading our blog on "Answering Tough Interview Questions": http://www.cancerandcareers.org/blog/answering-tough-interview-ques.

Please let us know if you have any other questions and our coach will respond to you soon.

Best,
Maddy Meislin
Associate Manager of Programs

Hi, Malika,
So excited for you that you are ready to reenter the workforce! I can tell from your question that the excitement is tempered a bit by the perception challenge we all faced when getting back to normal after chemo and hair loss. I will never forget the day I whipped off my wig on a cross-country flight on a hot summer day, and those around me cheered and clapped for me. That felt so empowering.
But, the question of how an employer will perceive your regrowth or a head covering is more serious than that little rebellion of mine, I know. In my experience in working with lots of folks like you, image issues are critical to confidence. And, confidence is critical to landing that great job.

Here are a few things to consider. First, if you have not yet taken advantage of the assistance of the American Cancer Society's Look Good Feel Better program, I encourage you to do so. Here is the URL to check it out. http://www.cancer.org/treatment/supportprogramsservices/look-good-feel-better
This will give you an opportunity for a consultation with a stylist / image expert who can offer you advice from a beauty professional's viewpoint. It can be a real boost to your sense of professional self confidence.

Next, go ahead and apply for the job of your dreams. It usually takes at least 3 - 4 weeks from posting to when employers arrange interviews, and often, first interviews are conducted via phone. So, if that is the case, you will be much farther along in regrowth by then.
If you get through the initial screening, then take time before your face to face interviews to go to a local salon for a stylish short cut. While there you can consult with them about solutions for eyebrows and eyelashes if you still feel self conscious about them.

Or, if you feel the need, wear a stylish headscarf to that interview. You most likely won't get direct questions about it, and as long as your sparkling eyes and personality show through with confidence, it may not be as much of an issue as you think.

That last suggestion is tempered by my observation that employers are indeed a bit wary of us survivors. I usually recommend not talking about your cancer experience during screening interviews, and only if one needs accommodations on the job do I recommend talking to them about it at all. Best to be evaluated on what you can bring to the table to make a difference for the employer than on what you have just endured health-wise. If you can make a strong case for your skills and accomplishments, let those things stand for you.

You will have to take this advice as you believe it applies to you, or not, because only you know your comfort level. But, as long as you approach the interviews with grace, dignity and confidence that you can make a difference for the employer, you will shine.

Wishing you the warmest regards,

Kathy Flora
CAC Career Coach