A: IT is important that you are completely honest about your health problems because your employer will need to know about them in order to support you properly and assess potential work implications. If you have the appropriate skills and competencies, there is no reason why your health problems should create any problems with your prospective employer.

However, they will need to ensure that you are able to carry out your job responsibilities effectively and that the environment in which you will be working is suitable.

For example, will you need specialist equipment or assistance with any tasks? Perhaps you will require regular time off for hospital appointments?

These are all factors that need careful and effective management for the benefit of your own well-being and the performance of the business.

Consider how your health might impact on your job and whether you will need to make any changes to the way in which you work so that you can answer any questions posed by a prospective employer.

After all, they are likely to appreciate your honesty and will be in a better position to support you in your role, whatever the need.

JO CAUSON
Director, marketing and corporate affairs, Chartered Management Institute