Mystery Woman

Tell us more for better jobs, advice
and connections

YOUR GROUPS

Discover and join groups with like-minded women who share your interests, profession, and lifestyle.

COMPANIES YOU FOLLOW

Get alerted when there are new employee reviews.

YOUR JOB ALERTS

Get notified when new jobs are posted.

Your post is published!

Lisa Peay

10/13/20 at 2:43PM UTC

Consulting

Frustrated with being discriminated when applying for jobs

Hello, my name is Lisa Peay and I am a 2 time Cancer survivor with over 25 years work experience, 2 MS degrees

Join the conversation...

Lisa Peay

10/14/20 at 12:56AM UTC

Thanks for advice I've tried everything

Lisa Peay

10/13/20 at 2:35PM UTC

I have a 3 year gap in work due to Cancer diagnosis. When I explain my previous Cancer medical issue I am looked over for the position. I can't prove it but I feel discrimination is holding me back. What can I do?

Vinnette Perry

Clinical Operations Leader

10/13/20 at 5:54PM UTC

First of all, I'm happy to hear that you are on the mend and seeking employment. Perhaps you can share your absence another, from a position of power. Future employers may see you as someone who will be racking up medical cost, absenteeism, and not highly productive. I would not talk about cancer diagnosis. Figure out some way to say it that wouldn't be lying- I stepped away from the workforce to help someone with a health crisis. Something very succint, no details. If you had things you learned such as crisis management, offer those as take aways during your time away from the workforce. Were there any skills you acquired once you felt better, highlight those.

Deb Shephard Moynihan

10/13/20 at 4:28PM UTC

Can you state that you took a personal leave of absence? Or an extended sabbatical? Family medical leave? I’m a cancer survivor and no one has a right to know unless it’s our choice to tell them how and when we want. Press on. ?

Lisa Peay

10/14/20 at 12:53AM UTC

When I state I took a medical leave of absence they question further on the extent of medical issue.

Deb Shephard Moynihan

10/14/20 at 7:07PM UTC

Red flag. I’d reply: I don’t believe that my medical history applies to my application today, unless you feel otherwise? (snide tone because they’re violating the law). Or something to the extent of: The greatest part of history is that it’s in the past, wouldn’t you agree? You’ll see that my following role was (start talking about your next role). They have NO RIGHT to ask, although they certainly can be very subtle about discriminating against you from there. But I would move ahead and be a bit forceful about it. Act a bit shocked that they’re probing (again - they are breaking the jaw) but just press forward.

See other replies

You're invited.

See what women are sharing on Fairygodboss.

What's new today

Personalize your jobs

Get recommendations for recent and relevant jobs.

Employer Reviews

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

3.0

Shiny objects aren't always the best. You'll find dozens of...

Seagate Technology

4.4

Such a great place to work, they offer great benefits and...