Looking for New Job
Save as FavoriteHello,
I am currrently working as a contractor and going through chemo. My employers have been very understanding, giving me time off for treatments, however, my contract is up in February and cannot be renewed, so I have to start looking for a new job.
I have some questions since I am still finishing chemo and possibly moving on to radiation.
What and when should I tell a new employer about my situation - it will obviously effect by performance and will require time out of the office. Should I wait until after I have a job offer?
When is it appropriate to start making sure their medical coverage covers my condition.
Am I covered by Family Medical Leave act right away - or does it take time to become eligible.
Thank you,
Monica
1 Comment
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Julie Jansen on Jan 7, 2012
Career Coach Comment:
Hi Monica,
Please forgive my delay in responding to your question. I wanted to poll a few of my employer and HR contacts to see what they think.
Your first question about when to tell a potential employer about your need to take time off for treatment is really difficult for a variety of reasons. If you tell them too early in the interviewing process, you run the risk of scaring them off from making you an offer, either because of a negative bias they may have or simply that they haven't had experience with an employee who is ill and needs to take time off. If you wait until you have an offer or even after you have accepted an offer, I would be sure to know exactly how much time you will need to take off from your job for treatment. Unfortunately I believe that this is a case-by-case situation where you try to read the person whom you would work with and gauge whether or not you should reveal your situation. I am so sorry that there is not an easy answer. I do know that you must be true to yourself and your situation. Your health is the most important thing and there are plenty of employers out there who will work with you through your treatment as you have experienced in your current contractor position.
Your other two questions are legal questions so I would recommend that you review the information on our site in the legal section. I do know that an employee is not eligible for FMLA until he or she has worked for a company for 12 months or longer and 1250 hours within 12 months, however do doublecheck this with our legal experts.
Good luck Monica!
Take care,
Julie
