commentr/StutterMarch 20, 2023

Content

I do a mix of things. As others have said, I try to disclose to the HR people that I have a stutter that is exacerbated when meeting new people but it usually settles down after a few minutes chatting. This actually helps me as it takes psychological pressure off that first conversation with someone new: they already know I have a stutter so no worry or self-judgement of 'messing up'. The next thing I do is work on my self-confidence in the hours before the interview. This involves talking to people I know, either face to face or on the telephone just to warm up my voice. I'll listen to high energy music that pumps me up on the way to the interview. I also try to build up a bit of 'yeah, so what? What's your problem with my speech?' attitude. Arriving early for the interview gives me a chance to catch my breath, perhaps by having a coffee nearby. And of course don't forget the usual body language stuff: smile, eye contact, be polite. This has been working well for me for quite some time. I've been told that I 'interview well'. Stay confident and remember: you really wouldn't want to work for a company filled with people who don't like stutterers.

Themes

Anticipation & AvoidanceCoping & AdvocacyEmotional Experience

Subthemes

Avoidance & SubstitutionHiding & ConcealmentSelf-Advocacy & BoundariesHope & Motivation

Codes (3)

saying_name_introductionemotional_statesocial_pressure