Finding a job with a disability is a challenging feat programs for disabled adults —but there are always methods and resources that can make this part of your professional journey smoother. This guide features helpful tips from developmental disabilities services in New Jersey, which you can follow to find your path.
A Brief Guide to Job Search Tips for Adults with Disabilities
Despite an intellectual or developmental disability, securing a job—a dream job at that—is possible. You need to know how to go about applying, preparing, and giving an interview. Here are some strategies you can adopt:
1. Set Goals and Get Visible
Know what you want to do professionally and who you want to be a part of that journey. Engage in different activities to figure out which field is for you. Then, make a list of potential employers who have the same values as you.
Start on an easy note, create a strong LinkedIn profile and other social media handles. Go for professional resume writing/revamp, and post it to your profile on leading job hunt websites.
2. Focus On Your Strengths
One of the best job search strategies for adults with disabilities is to pay attention to what you can do, not the opposite! The more aware and confident you are about your strengths, the better your resume, and the wider net you can cast for the job hunt.
Make a list of all your strengths, adding even work experience and skills that seem trivial. If you haven’t had a job before, hobbies and certifications can prove valuable experience.
3. Be Honest About Your Disability
A common question about finding a job as a person with a disability is whether or not to disclose the disability. While the right answer depends on the job seeker’s unique situation, it’s really more ethical and logical to be honest.
One reason behind this is that if your disability does affect the job, the employer can consider facilities for adjustment. More importantly, you can actually state that your disability does not hinder your work if that is the case, which is honesty and satisfaction a potential employer may appreciate.
4. Don’t Hesitate to Ask for Accommodations
A major advantage of being honest about your disability is that you can ask for facilities that help you adjust to the work environment. Request this with ease and confidence, as it is your right.
Moreover, you may be surprised to learn that companies do comply with requests due to increasing awareness and availability of tech. If you need tools to aid your job, such as a voice-recognition app, make sure to clearly state this during your interview.
5. Look for Flexible Work Options
You have a dream job in mind—but know that hardly anybody reaches that point at the first time. Therefore, the best approach is to be flexible when you first start looking for career opportunities.
Look for remote work if your disability does not allow you to travel, or you haven’t found facilities to work comfortably onsite. If you can’t find an ideal job in traditional options, then branch out and adjust to a temporary job till you get the one you want.
6. Move Past Any Setbacks Confidently
Did you not get the interview call? Or did you receive a rejection from a company you dreamt of working for? Know that when it comes to finding a job, never take anything personally. Moreover, know that something better is waiting around the corner.
Try to understand the reasons why you did not clear a test/interview. While some things are out of your control and more of an employer issue, there are other aspects. Unclear CV, not enough clarification about disability and how you can work around it, or any missing past experience—you can work on all of these to nail future applications!
7. Join Career Training Workshops
Sign up for online job fairs and workshops designed especially to elevate job search strategies for adults with disabilities. Virtual job fairs are much more ideal than onsite ones since you can connect with a potential employer without talking about your disability until you actually like their values.
You can also go for internships and one-time gigs while you explore your options. This is especially helpful if you’re still figuring out which career field you are interested in.
8. Volunteer to Find Inspiration
In addition to training opportunities, you can also volunteer as a way to connect, give back—and improve your resume. Volunteering is an excellent way to gain insight into a certain career path while experiencing it firsthand.
And, if the path does not seem like your cup of tea in terms of required skill or growth expectations? You can walk away with zero problems!
9. Use Disability-Friendly Job Search Resources
Don’t forget to make the most of the resources available to job seekers with disabilities in your region. There are plenty of resources out there to help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities find employment. These resources exist both in-person and online.
For example, a career counselor who focuses on disability employment can provide you with advice about creating a strong CV and connect you to other resources.
10. Reach Out to Local Advocacy Agencies
Most states have authorized Divisions of Developmental Disabilities (DDD), which are associated with organizations that manage resources for citizens with disabilities. Such agencies not only help you figure out a suitable career path and connect you with resources but also take a practical approach.
You can get services like transportation to and from job interviews and funding/assets that aid with job approval or during employment.
Getting Started on Job Search with the Right Help!
Though you will always face challenges while seeking a job—including general problems and issues related to disability—know that the right support can make a world of difference. Health Focused Living offers employment resources and guidance on job search strategies for adults with disabilities. Reach out to us today at 609-256-6030 or leave us a message on the website to connect to a professional!
