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•  ADA ABC'S

Interview the ability.

Before an interview, remind yourself of one thing: you are not interviewing a disability. You are interviewing a person with skills and abilities. To be sure the applicant can represent him/herself in the best possible light, you may want to consider the following:

• Make sure the interview location, including the restroom, is accessible.
• Offer assistance, if needed, in filling out forms and have alternate formats of job applications readily available.
• Make sure you have in-depth knowledge about the essential functions for the position.
• Concentrate on the applicant's technical and professional abilities.

Aside from any small accommodations you may need to provide, it's important to treat the interview just as you would any other. Here are some tips to follow:

• Use "people first" language, with phrases like "person with a disability," not "disabled person."
• "Disability" is the current acceptable term; not "handicap."
• It is okay to offer assistance to a person with a disability. Ask first, and be willing to accept "No, thank you."
• Always direct communication to the interviewee, not any accompanying companions.
• People with disabilities are just as interested in sports and other topics as people without disabilities. Don't be afraid to make conversation.
• Use a normal speaking tone and style.

For more interviewing tips, click here.

For more information on hiring people with disabilities, and to find out what's in it for you visit click here.

Alternate formats for job applications

• Large print: Information can be formatted by changing the font size on an office computer or a copier with enlargement capability. Commercial copiers can readily increase the size of the print of any document. A minimum of 16-point print, preferably in a sans-serif typeface, is necessary for individuals with visual disabilities.
• Audiocassette: Documents and other information may be read onto audiotape for playback on standard cassette recorders.
• Braille: Documents can be produced in Braille in-house using special computer software and a Braille embosser. You can find a list of Braille transcribers through the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS) toll free at 800-424-8567 (ask for reference). A list of Braille transcribers can also be found at: http://duxburysystems.com/resource.asp.