I've got plenty of technical skills, and my colleagues can vouch for that. However, I've faced severe anxiety during live coding interviews, which makes it hard for me to think clearly and process even simple tasks. Despite a decade of experience, I freeze under the pressure of being observed while having to think on my feet. I've practiced a lot, but that feeling doesn't go away in the moment.
If I were to ask for accommodations, like not being monitored live or doing a take-home assessment instead, how would that impact my chances of getting hired? I know they shouldn't consider my disability when making hiring decisions, but could they still judge me differently? What's the reality of this situation?
5 Answers
It's really hard to say definitively how an employer would respond to your request for accommodations; it often depends on the company culture and the individual interviewers. Some may be understanding, while others might view it negatively. Just remember, they can choose not to hire you for any reason, and you may never know if it's related to your request. It’s a bit of a gamble!
It might be worth considering logistics too. If the job allows, you could suggest coding in their office on their systems instead of live monitoring. This way, you still show your skills without the intense pressure of being watched directly. Plus, you'd have a more controlled environment for yourself.
Absolutely! It’s a great way to balance showing your skills and managing your stress.
I feel for you, and it's tough out there. You might not need to ask for accommodations directly—just being upfront about your anxiety could help create some understanding. Some employers are more flexible, especially smaller companies that can modify their processes to help you feel at ease.
Honestly, I think it could be tricky. Making requests for accommodations might come off as high-maintenance to some, even if they're legitimate. That being said, a lot of people experience anxiety during interviews. It's worth noting that over time, these feelings often ease as you gain more experience with interviews and the pressure that comes with them. Just make sure you’re looking for a company that values a good fit rather than someone who's flawless under pressure.
It's true! When you find a company that understands that interviews can be tough and where you'll feel comfortable, that's definitely where you want to be.
Yeah, and practice really does help. With more interviews under your belt, you often get better at handling the nerves. Just go in and do your best!
If you have a formally diagnosed disability, you might be able to get accommodations, but keep in mind that many companies will try to avoid hiring anyone they think needs special treatment, even if they can’t outright say it. It’s a bit of a double-edged sword. But you should definitely advocate for yourself!
That sounds like a solid plan! It might help reduce your anxiety while still demonstrating your coding ability.