1. Online Career Fairs
People with disabilities face unique challenges when looking for a job. However, virtual recruiting can help minimize or eliminate these problems. Virtual job fairs help candidates with disabilities connect with employers since job seekers need not reveal a disability unless or until they feel ready.
2. Maximize Your Online Presence
LinkedIn, other social media sites, and even a personal website allow job seekers with disabilities to showcase their experience and skills. Invest the time in making your personal brand stand out and participate in professional groups and other online opportunities. Who knows? Recruiters may start seeking you out!
3. Look For Flexible and Remote Jobs
Flexible and remote jobs can help you stay connected to the workforce and maintain or grow your career, all while making accommodations for your particular situation. Flexible or remote work for people with disabilities also helps level the playing field, both by facilitating a fairer job search and by presenting more options for employment that accommodate each individual’s situation.
4. Be Flexible, Too
Sometimes a job search doesn’t go as planned, but if you’re willing to be flexible, you might find more success. Consider getting creative about how you explore opportunities and try different search strategies rather than relying solely on traditional choices. For example, you might consider temporary work rather than only full-time staff positions, even if it is just during your search for a permanent position. Or, be open to different kinds of flexible work arrangements outside of your usual industry to stay engaged in the workforce.
5. Consider When to Disclose
if there is no job-related reason to bring up your disability, then you may not need to mention it. But it is a particularly important point when trying to land an interview, noting that many experts agree early disclosure of a disability in your cover letter or resume might work against you in the initial stages of a job search.
6. Stay Positive
The average job search takes three to six months, and it’s important to note that that figure includes everyone, no matter their disability status.