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Hello!
In the past I had questions about interviewing several times for a promotion within my office and not being offered any of the jobs. Initially I thought it is due to not having a degree.
Recently though a friend mentioned it might be due to a chronic condition that has, a few times a year, kept me from working in the office for a several days to a couple weeks, depending on the severity of the flare-up. It's well-known in the office that I have a medical condition, so those interviewing are aware.
I've been invited, yet again, to interview for the same position. Currently most of the office is working from home, myself included, so they could have easily interviewed without my knowledge.
Therefore I have 2 questions:
Is it likely I'm a courtesy interview or placeholder because they're required to interview a certain number of candidates?
Is it appropriate to ask if my medical condition causes concern about my ability to perform the job functions of the position?
Thank you for your thoughts and answers!
Lois StokesSkilled in research and analysis.
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02/26/21 at 4:26PM UTC
2nd Update: The position was offered to someone else. When I asked if there were any concerns about my ability to perform the job successfully, I was advised the position has a heavy workload. This confirms my medical issue is a problem for them. I'm not sure how to proceed right now, or if there are even options for doing so.
Lois StokesSkilled in research and analysis.
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02/05/21 at 1:46AM UTC (Edited)
Quick Update: I interviewed and it remains my dream job! The thank you email has been sent, and they finish interviewing tomorrow.
When asked if they had any concerns about my ability to perform the job successfully, it was mentioned the position has a heavy workload. Because my chronic condition has caused me to be out of the office frequently, it really feels like my health is an issue, and I'm not sure there's any way to fix that.
Flexing has always been allowed, and as the Office Chief and Supervisor they're very much aware that I flexed in the same unit before & flex in my current unit.
Thank you for your advice and support. It has meant the world to me!
Joanna GiordanoHBO HR experience. Resume/Job & Health coach.
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02/01/21 at 5:19AM UTC
I agree with Megan! Think positive about why it’s happening. Of course nothing is for certain until you have a confirmed offer in hand and a start date, but whatever the reason, it’s happening! This is one step in the process to that promotion. Always take the interview! And if you are being interviewed repeatedly for the role, maybe it’s time to test your hirability on the market for an external role. It could put your current employer on their toes that they may be taking you for granted.
Lois StokesSkilled in research and analysis.
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02/01/21 at 6:20AM UTC
Thank you, Joanna! I've accepted the interview and will give it my very best! I appreciate your positive words and support!
Megan Therese Larsen
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01/30/21 at 12:34AM UTC
Hi! If you are interested in that job, do not go into it wondering if this is a courtesy interview. I don't think it is, but even if it is, its your time to shine. Prepare, prepare, prepare! Visualize yourself in that role. Ask relevant questions. One of those questions could be "Do you have any questions or concerns about my ability to do well in this role?" Put it out there, but without your friend's preconceived thought that the hiring manager may have a concern about your medical condition. If they say they are concerned about how much time you can dedicate to work, or if you are up for the challenge, then your friend may be right.
Only address your medical condition then. Talk about your workarounds and techniques you use when you are dealing with a flare up. List the successes you have been able to achieve despite having your condition.
Consider this: if your medical condition really is the issue, has your current manager addressed poor performance, less working hours, or disappointment in your work? If the company has never addressed poor performance, or have found a way to work you out of the company, chances are your friend might be wrong on this one.
Go into that interview with confidence. Please don't let your friend's comment shake your confidence or become your new truth.
Good luck!
Lois StokesSkilled in research and analysis.
151
01/30/21 at 8:40AM UTC (Edited)
Thank you, Megan! Your words of encouragement and point of view are refreshing and wonderful. I believe my friend is truly trying to help; the position is a natural progression from a position held for 12 years. With 1 exception, the recruitments (5+) were filled with outside people. Adding to it, I had not had an evaluation for 10 years, until earlier this month. Regardless, I'll be putting your advice into action. Thank you for the great advice!
