Thanks to the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, employers cannot discriminate against people seeking employment based on their disability. However, the bureau of labor statistics reports only around 18 percent of people with disabilities worked in 2019.
Statistics like this are disheartening for those seeking to enter the job market. However, if you have confidence, persistence, and qualifications, there is no reason why you can’t get a job. We have compiled our best tips for how to get hired when you have a disability.
Don’t Disqualify Yourself
Unfortunately, those with disabilities are often overwhelmed with things that they are unable to do. This can make it feel like they don’t have much to offer the job market. But the most valuable asset you bring to a job search is your confidence.
Take a moment to review your resume and write a list of hard and soft skills that you bring to the table as an employee. Focus only on this list when you decide whether to apply for a job. If you have the skills, don’t worry about what others will think. Apply for the job.
Only Explain What’s Necessary
When you go into an interview, keep in mind that an employer cannot ask you questions about your disability under the ADA. They are only allowed to ask you if you can perform the functions essential to the job with or without accommodations.
Feel free to politely refuse to answer a question if it infringes on your ADA rights, and don’t feel obligated to explain your condition more than you need to. Instead, focus on all the things you have to offer that you came up with earlier.
Get Reliable Transportation
One big hindrance that stands between job seekers and finding employment is getting reliable transportation to work. For some, the one thing standing in the way is not having a handicap-accessible vehicle. But for those whose disability keeps them from driving at all, it’s good to locate transportation resources, like:
- Paratransit
- Uber/Lyft
- Dial-a-Ride
- Eldercare Locator Service
- National Aging and Disability Transportation Center
Finding out how to get hired when you have a disability is intimidating, but you shouldn’t think it is out of reach. With confidence, a knowledge of your rights, and the right resources, you can achieve anything you set your mind to and push those statistics higher.
