As college graduates venture into the corporate world, many for the first time, I’ve been reflecting on my own interview experiences. I can’t remember the first time I interviewed for a job after college. I do remember going on what seemed to be endless interviews. One memory that sticks with me is being over twenty minutes late for a job interview. I hadn’t properly accounted for traffic. The response from the interviewing manager was one of frustration and disgust. After that experience, I have always been sure to arrive early or on time for interviews.

Another lesson that I deem of the utmost importance is that the interview goes both ways. The organization is getting to know you as a potential employee. The employee is also getting to know the employer as well. Considering the environment I work hasn’t always been a priority. I’ve always had a fear of being without a job. I’ve always tried to focus on economic stability. It’s only as I have gotten older that I have put more thought into the corporate culture of a workplace. Being autistic, I need certain environmental factors to be successful. I do best when I can control my workspace. I need quiet to focus. I need a place that is my own. Being micromanaged doesn’t serve me well. I enjoy solving problems on a computer. I don’t find a focus on interpersonal interactions to be my forte. Discovering how someone works best is essential to have a successful career.

A question I have often struggled with is when to disclose my disability. The rule I have gone with since I entered the workforce is to disclose after I have the job. I don’t want to face implicit bias in the interview process. I also know that once I start a job, I’m going to wow my employer. I want to have the opportunity to impress. It’s hard to decide when to disclose something so personal. The choice must follow whatever the individual is comfortable with.

I would like to encourage new graduates and those looking for a new job to remember their value. Never forget that you bring something to the table and don’t settle for less than you deserve.