Tips for Finding Jobs for People with Disabilities

If you’re a job-seeker with a disability, you know how difficult it can be to obtain gainful employment. From finding a position that matches your skillset to performing the daily functions of your job, there’s a lot to consider. If you’re not sure where to get started, you’ve come to the right place. This blog on jobs for people with disabilities is designed to help you understand your rights and responsibilities as you seek employment.

How Does the Americans with Disabilities Act Define “Disability?”

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines a disability as “a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more ‘major life activities.’” These “major life activities” include (but are not limited to):

• Walking
• Talking
• Seeing
• Hearing
• Learning
• Breathing
• Lifting
• Sleeping

It’s important to understand that the ADA does not designate specific conditions as “disabilities.” Instead, it looks at how you’re actually affected by your impairment on a daily basis.

Does the ADA Protect Job Applicants with Disabilities?

While the Americans with Disabilities Act doesn’t require employers to hire job seekers with disabilities, it does offer certain protections. If you’re applying for a job at a company with at least 15 employees and have a qualified disability, you’re covered by the ADA.

Ultimately, the goal is to prevent disability discrimination on the part of employers during the hiring process. Disability discrimination occurs when employers treat applicants with disabilities unfairly, even when they’re equally-qualified as able-bodied applicants. You’re considered “qualified” if you meet the job requirements and can perform the role with or without reasonable accommodations.

Explore All of Your Employment Options

If you’re not sure how to find a job when you have a disability, start by taking advantage of every option and resource. Check with local disability advocacy groups to pinpoint employers that frequently hire people with disabilities. You should also look into vocational rehabilitation agencies and job placement services designed specifically for people with disabilities.

Work From Home

Working from home is a great option if you don’t have access to reliable transportation or have a restrictive schedule. Common work from home positions include customer service and technical support representatives.

Self-Employment

Self-employment is another good way for people with disabilities to maintain gainful employment. If you’d like to start your own business but aren’t sure where to begin, there are online entrepreneurship resources designed for people with disabilities.

Volunteering

If you don’t have much prior work experience, consider looking into volunteering or internships. These roles help you make new contacts while also building confidence and job skills, like writing, teaching, coaching, sales, and more.

Ensure You Understand the Requirements of the Job

Found a job you’re interested in? Start by making sure you understand — and meet — the specific requirements of the position. If you have a physical disability, consider how it might impact your ability to perform common work-related activities, like sitting, standing, or lifting.

If you have a mental disability, determine whether you can respond and adapt to your working conditions. Will you be able to productively interact with your coworkers while maintaining your concentration? Are you able to understand and remember instructions in a timely manner? Identifying potential impediments in advance helps you find jobs for people with disabilities that you’re well suited for.