Q:  Hey Vivian.  How is it going?

A:  Hi, it’s me again. I got a very interesting job request. It doesn’t pay anything, more like volunteering. It’s for a haunted house in a very scary neighborhood. Even though I’d love to do that and many of my friends are going to be there, there’s a catch. I happen to have a health issue that won’t allow me to help out. I have a rare form of epilepsy. With all those flashing lights and strobe lights, that’s a huge no-no for me. That would set off a seizure for me in a matter of minutes. Even with medication.

Q:  It sounds like it might be fun, however.  And, keep you involved with others, active, that sort of thing?

A: Oh, how I’d love to be there though to help with all the festivities. Also to see all my friends dressed up scaring people. I already know some of the costumes and they are very scary and even very provocative.

Q:  Any other promising leads for jobs?

A:  I did fill out several applications this week. I got the same response that I usually do. We will call you in the next few weeks. We just hired a few new people and if they don’t work out, we’ll give you a call. In other words, you’re either over qualified or you’re too old.

Q:  What do you think about the application process itself?  Are there things one should watch for?

A:  One thing that I have learned, it’s illegal to fill in the part of the new applications where they ask if you or anyone in your household collects SSI, SSA or any other government assistance. It’s descrimnation and you can file a lawsuit against that company for that. I can’t tell you how many applications I have filled out with that question on there. Personally I don’t see why that has any bearing on your employment.

Q:  How do you handle your disability on the applications?

A:  Another thing that I learned, if you have a disability, if they don’t ask, don’t tell. At least not until you’re hired. Then you can discuss that with your new employer. It’s not deceit, it’s just like I said, they didn’t ask so you didn’t disclose. Now it’s up to them what they’re going to do about doing the right thing. Especially if they are truly an equal opportunity employer. If they make life miserable for you, then you can make and keep a record of it, which is very important, and file a law suit.

Q:  I know you are not contemplating that–what else have you done that will HELP you on the job search?

A:  Oh I cut my hair. Just to make myself look younger. I had this mass of long curly hair that was just too much. So now I have this new shorter do that looks great! I can wash it and put some spray gel on it and watch it curl up into nice a great do. Even put some little clips in it that make it look more managed. Not like before when it looked untamed and unkept. It was just too wild and out of control. It also gave me a more confident attitude. Something that I needed. So men and women out there, think about that. Every little thing matters. From head to toes. Do whatever it takes to get that edge you need to get the job that you want.