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Interviewing for new job

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by Susan L. on October 20, 2010 posted in 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!

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  • Julie Jansen

    Julie Jansen on 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

  • Alice McKenney

    Alice McKenney on 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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