For those with disabilities, finding and landing a suitable job at an accommodating workplace can be time-consuming and downright frustrating — and getting ahead in their careers can be even more of a challenge. However, these tips from Job Transitions will highlight the different ways in which technology can be used to advance the careers of workers with disabilities — and land the job of their dreams. Read on to learn more!
Remote Work and Learning Opportunities
Even before the pandemic began, remote work was a growing trend in many parts of the world. But in the age of COVID-19, finding remote jobs has never been easier — especially as a growing number of companies make the transition to permanent or hybrid work environments. And for those with physical, intellectual, visual, or auditory disabilities, remote work offers a slew of benefits, including a comfortable and accessible working environment, flexible schedule, and a simple commute to and from work each day.
If you’re looking for remote jobs that will allow you to work from the comfort of your home, online job boards such as Upwork, FlexJobs, JustRemote, and Remotive can help you to find the right opportunities for you. Job boards like Upwork and FlexJobs have their own mobile apps as well, so you can easily search for opportunities in a way that works best for you.
Some of the best remote jobs for workers with disabilities include:
● Virtual assistants. Many virtual assistant opportunities are available if you have skills in project management, teleconferencing, organization, and other administrative tasks.
● Writing and editing. If you’re a skilled writer or editor, you could earn a living from home by working as a freelancer.
● Business ownership. Plenty of funding options are available to entrepreneurs with disabilities, allowing you to start your own home-based business.
If you’d like to build up your skills to find your ideal job, consider earning an online degree. Unlike traditional institutions, many of these programs allow you to work at a pace that suits your lifestyle. There are many degree possibilities, including information technology, business, teaching, and much more.
Accommodating Workplaces
If remote work isn’t the right fit for you, The Balance offers some tips on searching for accommodating jobs, employers, and workplaces. If you use the Disability Job Exchange website to search for accommodating onsite employment opportunities, for instance, you’ll receive access to resume tips, interview advice, and available jobs in your state — no matter your disability status. Finding a suitable job at an accommodating workplace can be challenging, but online resources can help to make the process a lot less stressful.
Moreover, training opportunities may be available to you if you’re looking to boost your skills while searching for new employment opportunities.
Assistive Technologies
Whether you’ll be working from home or in an office environment, various types of assistive technologies can help you to learn, communicate, and function more easily. Several types of assistive technologies include the following:
● Text-to-speech (TTS) software
● Graphic organizers
● Assistive hearing technologies
● Sip-and-puff technologies (for those with mobility impairments)
● Proofreading software
● Math tools and technologies
Moreover, plenty of free or low-cost assistive technology tools can be found online if you need help with writing, reading, or math. Several great options for kids and adults alike include Bookshare, TalkTyper, and WebMath. Mobile apps like Be My Eyes, List Recorder, uSound, Wheelmap, Write in Style, and TapToTalk are other excellent options if you hold a visual, auditory, mobility, or sensory impairment.
A Final Word
As you can see, technology can simplify your life, help you to search for accommodating jobs, and advance your career — regardless of your disability status. By searching for remote employment opportunities, using specialty job listing websites, and utilizing the many assistive technologies that are available to individuals with disabilities, you’ll find that landing and maintaining a job is a whole lot easier than you ever thought possible.
Patrick Young / pyoung@ableusa.info / http://ableusa.info/
Need to spruce up your resume? The resume writers at Job Transitions can help you create a resume that will give you a leg up on the competition! Call (708) 277- 8813 or submit this form.
