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How to talk to your employer about accommodations

dee_cfs
I've successfully negotiated accommodations at two different jobs now and I wanted to share what I've learned because this process is terrifying but it doesn't have to be as scary as it feels. First: you do NOT have to disclose your specific diagnosis. You can say "I have a medical condition that requires accommodations." That's it. Under the ADA they can ask for documentation from your doctor but you don't have to tell your boss what's wrong with you. What worked for me: 1. I put everything in writing. Email, not verbal conversations. 2. I was specific about what I needed. Not "I need help" but "I need the ability to work from home 2 days per week and take breaks every 90 minutes." 3. I framed it as maintaining productivity. "These accommodations will help me perform at my best" not "I can't do my job without these." 4. I had my doctor write a letter before I even asked, so I was prepared if they requested documentation. The conversation is awkward. There's no way around that. But most employers would rather accommodate you than lose you and go through the expense of hiring and training someone new. Happy to answer specific questions about this. I know it's scary.

4 Replies

emptybank

This is incredibly helpful. I've been terrified to bring this up at work. The framing advice especially — "maintaining productivity" vs "I can't do my job" is a totally different conversation. Question: did HR get involved in your case? I'm nervous about HR knowing my medical stuff even though I know they're supposed to keep it confidential.

tony_cfs

I went through this process last year. The ADA accommodations request was actually smoother than I expected. My HR person was professional and my manager was supportive (which I was NOT expecting). Biggest tip I'd add: document EVERYTHING. Every email, every conversation, every request and response. Not because you're planning to sue but because having a paper trail protects you if things ever go sideways.

kevin_lc

I wish I'd done this before I ended up having to go on disability. I kept pushing and pushing without asking for help and eventually I just... couldn't anymore. If I'd asked for accommodations earlier I might still be working. Don't make my mistake. Ask. The worst they can say is no, and then you have legal options.

lauram_33

saving this post. im in the early stages of figuring this out at my job. the idea of putting it in writing first instead of having an awkward verbal conversation is smart. less room for misunderstanding and i can actually think about what i want to say instead of getting flustered

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