How to Find Jobs for the Disabled
It's sometimes difficult for disabled individuals to find jobs. Despite references to "equal opportunity employer" and the American Disabilities Act, there's still widespread prejudice. Keep a positive "can-do" attitude and follow these steps to succeed in your job search.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
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Take advantage of vocational rehabilitation services. Every state has a VR department that trains disabled individuals and helps them find a job. Push for computer training, which will make you more employable.
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Contact national and local organizations that help disabled individuals find jobs. Start with the American Association of People with Disabilities They offer an annual mentoring program and publish a list of employment opportunities. Call and ask them about organizations in your local area that can help.
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Take an internship job at a nonprofit or for-profit organization. The American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) has a list of internship opportunities on their website. Demonstrate your work ethic by expressing a willingness to perform duties not included in the job description.
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Look for a position with the federal government. They claim to be a model for the commercial and nonprofit sectors in disability hiring, so hold them to it! Your state vocational rehabilitation office can help you get noncompetitive federal employment jobs. The U.S. Office of Personnel Management has information about federal jobs for the disabled.
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Educate employers in your area about the disabled. Many assume disabled individuals can't keep up with job demands. Explain that the employer might need to make accommodations in some cases, it doesn't hinder a disabled person's ability to fulfill assigned duties. You'll be doing yourself and other disabled people a favor.
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Tips & Warnings
A disabled individual must have persistence to find a job. Believe you can do whatever is asked of you and be willing to prove it.
Networking is important. Get involved with local nonprofit organizations and make connections with people. Let them know what your skills are.
Research possible tax advantages for companies who hire disabled workers, and show the prospective employer how they will benefit by giving you a chance.
Related Searches
Resources
Comments
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I have some learning disibilities and I perform a variety of skills. I'm looking for a regular job still. I had interviews and resumes to many places. I did not get any of those jobs. Maybe It's my limitations/abilities/flexibility that might have prevented that. I might have to have a job specialist through a special vocational agency help me get of place me in a specific job. Right now I work part-time at a YMCA not far from where I live a couple days a week. That is very flexible for me right now. It's something. I clean down the excersise machinery for the time being.
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BIG PITY South Africa does not have the same attitude to disabled people. They say one thing and practice another.
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Don't give up.
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A good place to start is the Federal Government. Also try looking at your State Vocational Rehab Center.
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'Tips and Warnings' for 'How to Find Jobs for the Disabled'. What if you've done ALL of the above and you still can't find a break? What other avenues can you try?
