commentr/StutterSeptember 7, 2020

Content

I try to think of any questions they might ask me and I practice the answers by talking out loud. I interview myself and answer my questions regarding previous work experience and how it applies for this job, my current life circumstances (e.g. I am a student as well), any questions about the job (I usually ask what the best thing is about working there, and what an average day might look like). If they're speaking I'll use eye contact, if I'm speaking I'll look around the room and use my hands a bit as I speak. If I feel like I'm about to stutter I try to look for a different word, or I make sounds like hmm, ah, and... to think through what I want to say. Don't think it's a weakness. Unless you're applying for air traffic control, it's not going to make a huge difference in your performance. Respect yourself and your bosses should as well. It's easy to put yourself down or second guess your interview skills. I try to pump myself up in this way and get it into my head that they need to respect me and take me seriously. I'll work hard for them in return. My stutter doesn't represent me or my abilities. You don't even need to mention it, especially if it's only a small trip up. If I get a really bad moment, I'll just say, "Sorry, I've got a stutter," and then move on. I think dressing well can give you confidence and pull away from self-consciousness. I'm male so perhaps it's a bit easier for me since there's less choices for clothing.

Themes

Anticipation & AvoidanceCoping & AdvocacySchool & WorkSocial & Relationships

Subthemes

Avoidance & SubstitutionOverthinking & MonitoringSelf-Advocacy & BoundariesEmployment & CareerDisclosure & Telling Others