I once attended an interview. The company had very few vacancies for field officers which large number of people applied for. My turn soon came and I walked in with a walking stick. Immediately the panel sighted me they all exchanged glazes that were filled with surprises and bewilderment. They needed able-bodied. One of them announced to me, "Mr. Olugbodi, we won't take much of your time, you should be out of here in the next 5-10 mins, whereas not less than 20-30 mins were spent with earlier candidates.

As if I knew that I'd be judged before talking, I shared my story and worth in my 4 pages {A4 sized) application. For almost 1 hour, the panel probed & drilled me to expatiate on my claims which they found intriguing. Guess they did not expect a person with disability to be that industrious. At a point, a man was sent for to come 'see' a wiz-kid. He was the CEO of the company.

Long story cut short, I got the job!

I was judged unfit even before I made a statement. Nevertheless, I knew my worth, backed with experiences.

I wish to admonish HR experts and CEOs never to judge anyone until proven. I counsel applicants not to write themselves off, feeling others are more qualified, instead, be creative & strategic with your resume and application.

[b]By Kola Olugbodi (@kolaolugbodi)
Author of Through It All
and CEO of Background Check International