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I had to correct someone about my disability at work
I recently was emailing a newly onboarded coworker who said she was sorry to hear that I had gone deaf and that she hoped I'd made a speedy recovery. While she was well meaning, I responded to explain that I was born deaf — she was so embarrassed about her mistake!
Has anyone else had to correct someone about their disability at work? I don't want to upset my coworkers but I also want to feel confident sharing and expressing my identity. If you've ever been the one corrected, how did you navigate the situation? I'd love any advice from anyone who's experienced either side of this. Thank you!
AJones
Senior Analyst, Athlete & Healthy Food Blogger!
86
09/18/20 at 3:09PM UTC
I think you handled that very well. People can be ignorant and not because they are trying to be mean. The best thing we can do is explain it. Education goes a long way! As a side note, I once asked in an interview about someones hearing . (So that I could help him). I didnt know early on in my professional career, that I shouldn't ask about it. He got the job, but used it against me every chance he could. Refused to wear his hearing aids. We even got him the TTY phone. He knew the rules on legalities and really just abused it. Unfortunate because we did all that we could to help. Strange situation. He actually apologized for his behavior to me on his last day. Said he knew he was terrible, and he was. I suppose he was looking for a way to milk the system.
Alyssa Bacher
20
09/14/20 at 8:48PM UTC
Like others, I'm hearing impaired. I had to correct people (and even myself at times) on how to communicate to me. For example, if they are trying to get my attention to tap on my desk, or when walking to stand on my left side (which is my good ear). I try to make them at ease when communicating with me.
Kelly M.
111
09/14/20 at 2:48PM UTC
I am deaf too - I'm used to hearing those comments. It doesn't bother me. If they acted nervous or awkward, I'd just smile/laugh and said "no worries!" Then, they would be more relaxed afterward.
Anonymous
09/12/20 at 8:11PM UTC
(1) My disability is invisible and I have yet to figure out how to advise folks, much less correct them. That said, I like to think I would to be confident and kind, allowing for reactions that might be kind and supportive in some places, insecure or dismissive in others. Then take it from there.
(2) If I feel confident, I enjoy being corrected "my bad, got it" and even "tell me more". If I am insecure, I look for reassurance after being corrected "oh, I'm sorry" and even "really sorry" . Sounds like your coworker is currently in the second camp for the moment. Many people are around differences and disabilities. Hopefully relationships settle into mutual respect and confidence.
Jennifer BensonEducator, Certified Pk-12
114
09/12/20 at 12:15AM UTC (Edited)
Anonymous, I have always made an effort to be respectful and supportive of disabilities. It’s easy noticing physical disabilities and the appropriate action or words to use, but what is extremely difficult is a non-visual disability. I am well aware of people who have no idea and inadvertently make rude comments to someone with such a disability or they judge your ability to do the work and share the information with others. I am glad to read you want to share and express your identity.
Mara FahlContent marketing professional
72
09/11/20 at 6:48PM UTC
I'm deaf too and I find that just being very casual and even laughing about it makes it easier when awkward moments like that pop up. You just have to laugh it off and move on, these things tend to only be as awkward as you let them be.
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