Job seekers with a disability find it quite challenging to get suitable opportunities to their liking. To overcome this, candidates with disabilities need to highlight their relevant skills to potential employers asserting they are well-suited for the job. The key is not to be self-conscious about your perceived weaknesses and show the hiring manager why you are best suited to the position.

The Americans with Disabilities (ADA) Act is a civil rights law that forbids discrimination towards all people with disabilities. The ADA defines a disability as any physical or mental damage that has a significant impact on life activities, such as breathing, seeing, walking, lifting, sleeping, and taking care of yourself. 

Despite your disability, you have to meet the essential job requirements that you are applying for. These can include your education, experience, skillset licensing, etc. If you do not meet the critical job criteria, the employer is under no obligation to hire you. Another vital aspect of qualifying for a job is that you are expected to perform basic tasks without any assistance. 

 We have listed down a few points that you should not overlook when attending an interview to improve your chances of bagging that job you want. 

Seek Assistance from Job Hunting Resources

There are a lot of support groups for people who have limitations. They offer services like job training, job assistance, and lots more. Some of the support groups are mentioned below:

1. The Job Accommodation Network is a service provided by the Department of Labor. They offer advice and guidance on how to maximize your efforts to get a job if you have a disability.
2. The Workforce Recruitment Program is a referral and recruitment program that helps connect employees in the federal sector to job seekers with disabilities.

There are several events that help workers with disabilities find the right job. Never hesitate to put yourself out there, as these events are a great chance to network and meet potential employers.

You are Entitled To Disability Non-Disclosure

Disability disclosure means that you do not need to reveal your disability on your CV or cover letter. If your disability does not impact the job requirements of the role, legally you don’t have to reveal it. But at times, you may need to attend an interview in a building without ramp access. In such a situation, you will need to inform your potential employer about your disability.

Always Ask For What You Need In The Interview 

The interview is the time to discuss and understand what you are expected to do as part of the job. This is the time to tell the potential employer that you may require a workstation that suits your needs. This may mean sourcing a special ergonomic desk or installing a communication system if you are deaf/mute, etc.

If You are Asked a Tough Question Handle it With Courtesy 

If you are asked a question about your disability that you are not comfortable answering, try saying something positive. The ADA clearly states that it is illegal to ask about the candidate’s medical history.

Dress Well

Always be formally dressed when you go for an interview. Don’t try to hide your disability by covering it up for an interview. Stay confident and always answer questions to point. 

Final Statement

You may be eligible for disability insurance if you are unemployed. It will help you get by in times of difficulty. A disability can be temporary or permanent, but you are entitled to claim this insurance. 

 

Related Tags : disability, jobs, unemployment

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