Need to leave a seasonal job...want to be able to return next winter...how much do I say?
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Margot Larson on Jan 23, 2013
Career Coach Comment:
Jill –
I’m sorry to hear about the timing of your surgery – right in the middle of the ski season. Based on the information you have provided, it sounds as though you may have a good relationship with your employer. Is that right? What is the culture of the organization? Are they compassionate? Supportive? Do you have a warm friendly relationship with your boss? Or, do you expect them to react that your illness is very inconvenient to them?
The answer to these questions is your guideline as to how much you should share. If you don’t know for sure, just test the waters. Inform them that you must go for surgery with xx weeks of recovery. That this is not elective surgery but potentially life threatening. Tell them how “bummed out” you are at having to leave during your most enjoyable time of year. That you hate to miss all the action. If you get immediate compassion, you can opt to share more. You want to be cautious because some people get scared of the “cancer” word and assume it means disability, incapacity and death. That’s not the current reality with all the leading edge treatments today. Personally, I continue to beat the odds and enjoy a good quality of life.
Sometimes revealing more than is necessary is counter-productive to everyone. Instead, re-assure them that you will be ready and fit for next season. Stay in touch during your recuperation. If you can, stop by for a brief visit. Follow up off season to assure your spot for next season.
By the way, since you will be getting treatment out-of-town, know that there are some lodging options for your family provided by the American Cancer Society and other such non-profits. Hope Lodge is free to cancer patients and there are other housing options also.
I hope this is helpful to you and good luck in your recuperation post surgery.
Margot
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Bud Bilanich on Jan 26, 2013
Career Coach Comment:
Jill:
First of all you have my best wishes for a successful surgery and recuperation.
You are right when you say you want to be honest with your employer –this can be the best way to ensure that they will be likely to hire you again next winter. It is important to remember that being honest doesn’t necessarily mean a full disclosure, as Margot suggests.
I found that people were very supportive when I told them I was having cancer surgery. I bet you will too. My personal experience taught me that calling cancer by its name, not an “illness”, gave me power over it. I felt that I was in charge, not the cancer.
Of course, this is up to you. Whether or not you tell your employer that you are having cancer surgery is your choice. Regardless, as you have suggested, it is best to be as open and honest with your employer about your need for some time off this winter.
Since you have worked at the same resort for 11 years, I assume you have a good relationship with the people who run it. Therefore, I see no problem with telling your employer that you are going to have cancer surgery. Then do exactly as you suggest – share with them the surgery date and recovery time. Offer to keep them posted on your recovery.
I would also suggest that you check out some of the Cancer and Careers information on sharing your diagnosis and legal issues around disclosure to help inform your decision.
Best of luck to you. I’ll keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Bud Bilanich
