Interview skills associated with employment recommendations for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Abstract

Background: Mock or practice interviews have become a typical tool for transition programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Method: We examined what interview skills were most associated with subsequent employment for individuals intellectual and developmental disabilities via practice interviews. The likelihood of employment was measured as a function of whether the interviewer responded that they would hire the individual.

Results: Results indicate that the following job interview skills were considered most important were: sits still and straight; understandable speech; good posture; appropriate voice; and appropriate handshake.

Conclusions: As these potential employers had hired individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, we suggest that their feedback would be particularly relevant.