|
TIPS
FOR JOB HUNTERS WITH DISABILITIES
|
Prepared for ACPA 2000 by Katherine Schneider, Ph.D., UW-EAU Claire,
schneiks@uwec.edu and Judy Landes,
Shenandoah University, Jlandes@su.edu.
- CAST A WIDE NET, especially
for your first job. In order to get your foot in the door, you may
have to take a job that is less than your ideal, or put together two
part-time jobs.
- USE A VARIETY OF RESOURCES IN YOUR JOB SEARCH,
such as friends, professors, online job banks, vocational rehabilitation
counselors and your university placement office.
- MARKET YOUR DISABILITY AS AN ASSET,
emphasizing the skills you have acquired as a result (i.e. creative
problem solving, sign language, computer technologies).
- PRACTICE INTERVIEWING
with family and friends. Most schools have career centers which do
mock interviews even for alumni. Be able to confiedently answer questions
about your disability and accommodation needs, and how you will perform
essential functions of the job.
- DISCLOSE YOUR DISABILITY WHEN YOU FEEL THE TIME
IS RIGHT. One strategy is to disclose after
an interview has been arranged. Some people prefer to disclose indirectly
(i.e. "You'll recognize me because I havea golden retriever guide
dog.")
- DO YOUR HOMEWORK. Before the interview, research!
The knowledge will give you an understanding of the organization and
will allow you to impress the interviewer.
- AFTER THE INTERVIEW, write a thank you note
and make a follow-up call to see how the selection process is progressing.
- BE PERSISTENT! Job hunting
is stressful for everyone, but don't give up. With perseverance, you'll
find the job that is right for you.
Return to Disability Tips
Index
ACPA Task Force on Disability Issues
|