The Secrets of Job Seekers with Disabilities

posted on Mar 19 by Brian in the Disability Discrimination, Disability Law, Disability News, Employment category

Finding a job can be frustrating even in the best of circumstances, but can prove even more frustrating if you have a disability. Just the act of conducting the job search can be challenging, so it is important that you not only know your capabilities, but that you are able to convey them in such a manner that employers look at your ability, not your disability. Don’t panic! With some patience and these tips, you can not only learn how to find a job, but find a job that is perfect for you!

According to the ADA it is illegal for the below to discriminate against people with disability:

• Private employers
• State and local governments
• Employment agencies
• Labor organizations
• Labor-management committees

When do you disclose your disability? This may be the single most important consideration in your job search. It is a personal decision that must be made for each job, and should be based on your disability, and your knowledge of the prospective employer. You should ask yourself this question: If I disclose my disability will I be hired? If you answer it No, then you may want to consider not disclosing on the application. However, if you feel that the employer may hire you and make fair and reasonable accommodation, you may consider informing them of your disability sooner rather than later.

There are several considerations for disclosure. You could add it to your resume, phrased in proactive words emphasizing adaptability, flexibility, and ability. Do not open your resume with your disability, rather, add it in a subtle manner. Another option is to add it in your cover letter. It is important to remember that some employers recruit disabled people specifically. If you choose to wait until the interview to disclose your disability, it may cause an uncomfortable situation for both you and the prospective employer.

Once you have your foot in the door, it is up to you to impress upon the interviewer that you are not only the most capable of doing the job, but that you are the best candidate. Remember, even though the law does not require that you reveal your disability to a prospective employer (unless it relates to the completion of essential job functions), being open about your disability may be viewed as a sign of character and strength. If your disability does not have an impact on your ability to do the job, you may choose to disclose at a later time, or possibly never to do so.

When job searching, look for the “Positive about disabled people” icon. You can be sure that the prospective employer will be well-equipped and wheelchair accessible (or willing to make accommodations for you).

Important Job Search Tips for Seekers with Disabilities

Contact government agencies that serve people with disabilities. Access your abilities. Make a list of job possibilities based on your abilities. Once you have a good idea about the job you are looking for, it is up to you to make sure you have the skills to perform that job. It may mean additional training, but there are many agencies that specialize in helping people with disabilities achieve their goals.

What about the current economy? Eric Jackier, founder of Enable Enterprise, Inc. says, “In conditions like this when we have a recession, a person with a disability might be an option to hire. There are tax credits involved for employers who are looking to hire, there is on the job training, there are job coaches who can be sent to the various job sites. So in fact there are ways that employers can actually save money, even in a recession, by hiring a person with a disability.”