Should I disclose my Asperger's syndrome on my job application

I am a 23 year old with Asperger's syndrome trying to find work (and have been for some time) and always have the dilemma of whether I should disclose my Aspergers on my job application,wait until during the interview, after the interview if i get the job or not at all. At the moment I usually mention it in the equlity monitoring part of the application form and at the interview if a question is relevant (for example if they ask to explain a difficulty I had to overcome)

my dad is now advised me to keep quiet about the Asperger's as he feels its none of the employers business and I have no legal obligation to do so. However my mother advises me to declare it to them as she feels it is important that they know.

Am I best to tell employers or keep quiet about it? 

If i don't tell employers am I liable to be sued or dismissed etc further down the line if they found out?

Parents
  • When last job hunting I was told, in no uncertain terms,  that the purpose of a job application and accompanying CV is to get an interview, not to get a job.  The interview is what gets you  the job, unless they already know you, in which case it can be merely a formality. 

    I would recommend you don't mention your Aspergers when initially applying.  Whether or not you tell the interviewers, or even wait until you start the job is a separate question. I have found that telling people towards the end of the interview works for me, then asking them if they have any questions,  though that may have a lot to do with the type of work you are seeking and the individual interviewers.

    In any case - good luck.

Reply
  • When last job hunting I was told, in no uncertain terms,  that the purpose of a job application and accompanying CV is to get an interview, not to get a job.  The interview is what gets you  the job, unless they already know you, in which case it can be merely a formality. 

    I would recommend you don't mention your Aspergers when initially applying.  Whether or not you tell the interviewers, or even wait until you start the job is a separate question. I have found that telling people towards the end of the interview works for me, then asking them if they have any questions,  though that may have a lot to do with the type of work you are seeking and the individual interviewers.

    In any case - good luck.

Children
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