Linda Chase, founder of Able Hire, wrote this blog to help job seekers, especially those with disabilities, see that there are other avenues for securing a satisfying career than the traditional approach of applying for jobs. Linda is from Tempe, AZ and created Able Hire to help people with disabilities build rewarding, successful careers. She sees Able Hire as a resource for people with disabilities seeking jobs and for hiring managers needing to gain a better understanding of what workers with disabilities have to offer.
Many workers with disabilities do not have to settle for sheltered workshops, low-paying vocational training programs or minimum wage positions. Thanks to advocacy from activists on many fronts, new technology, and the increased popularity of remote work, there are more promising jobs and opportunities for workers with disabilities.
Take Advantage of Remote Opportunities
One of the greatest advancements to reach the modern workforce is the increase in remote work opportunities. Indeed, it’s now estimated that as many as 22% of in-person jobs could be transitioned to a remote status. As many of these jobs transition to a virtual workspace, a world of opportunity has opened up for job candidates with disabilities.
Having a job where you can work remotely from home could be especially attractive to adults with Asperger’s or high-function autism because they can avoid challenging social interactions with coworkers in the office setting. However, be careful regarding too much isolation. Remain active in other groups of peers in non-work settings and in your community. Be pro-active in extending your comfort zone with others in social settings.
Remote work opportunities aren’t the only tech advancement that can improve the careers of workers with disabilities. There are also many opportunities to engage in remote learning, which can help equip workers with new skills and certifications that will help to improve their career prospects even further.
Assistive technology such as text-to-speech readers and screen magnifiers can further minimize the barriers that face job seekers with disabilities. When used in conjunction with the array of online resources that are available, job candidates can pursue career opportunities with confidence.
Invest in Your Career Through Online Forums
Another great asset to job seekers with disabilities is the availability of online forums where you can look for jobs, connect with others in your field, and learn more about businesses that you can run from home. Many people with disabilities find that they can operate a retail business or offer consulting services from home, and many of these opportunities can be found on online forums such as LinkedIn.
Whether you’re trying to find employment or simply network with professional peers, it’s important to cultivate an impressive resume and establish a presence on LinkedIn. For both, you’ll need to highlight your accomplishments in clear but succinct language, explaining your expertise to readers. On LinkedIn, you should also upload a high-quality professional portrait.
You can ensure you’re connecting with the right people and developing a network by investing in the premium version of LinkedIn. This will allow you to send direct messages to people in your field and see who’s viewed your profile. These features are great for any job seeker, but they’re particularly beneficial to candidates with disabilities who want to gain professional opportunities.
If you’re looking for a job that’s compatible with your abilities, it can be challenging to find accommodations and access the resources you need. Many of the most recent advancements in tech, though — including the emergence of the online workforce — may make it easier to advance your career.
Consider all these options for your learning, networking and employment strategies. I think you will find that more doors have been opened today that previously were closed to people with physical and cognitive disabilities.
