According to research, only 19.1% of people with disabilities have a job. Indeed, finding a job that’s a good fit can be difficult for job candidates who have disabilities. Whether you are living with a developmental disability such as autism or a physical disability such as cerebral palsy, proving that you’re a qualified candidate can require some additional effort. Luckily, technology has evolved to make this task easier, and there are several tech resources that will specifically be useful in your job hunt.
Online Job Boards
Online job boards are one of the best resources available on the web. These sites are ideal for any job candidate, but they’re particularly useful to candidates with disabilities because they allow users to search for jobs with specific keywords. You can enter terms such as “remote” to find home-based jobs or “disabilities” to find jobs that accommodate disabilities. Be sure to have an impressive resume ready to submit so that you can grab the attention of a recruiter.
PDF Editor
A PDF editor is one of the easiest ways to improve your resume. If you’ve been submitting a plain, black and white resume, and you haven’t heard back from any of the jobs you’ve applied to, this might be why. Your resume plays a big role in the impression you make on a recruiter, and you need to make yourself stand out. You can use a PDF editor to update your document with your most recent experience, new skills, and accomplishments. You simply need to upload the original PDF document, make your desired changes, and download it.
Assistive Technologies
There are several helpful assistive technologies you can use that will also likely simplify your job search. If you have a visual impairment, for example, a screen reader will turn the text on a website into an audible recording. Similarly, a magnifier can help you see small text. These tools are often readily available online in the form of applications, and they can make it easier to apply to jobs with confidence.
Remote Learning Opportunities
One of the most important parts of applying to jobs is ensuring that you are a qualified candidate. Recruiters are looking for applicants who are self-motivated and well-informed. Completing a remote learning opportunity is a great way to demonstrate that you are both of these things. Classes on specific professional topics will help you advance your career — just remember to list these accomplishments on your resume so recruiters will see them!
LinkedIn Premium
Sometimes job hunting requires an investment. LinkedIn Premium is one of the best investments you can make. This service allows job seekers to connect with recruiters, potential mentors, and others. You can even upload a professional headshot and a description of your skills so that people viewing your profile know what to expect. Premium allows you to see who’s viewed your profile, message people directly, and network more efficiently.
Get a Job That Meets Your Needs
As a job seeker with disabilities, you already face obstacles every day. You don’t need to face these same obstacles when you’re looking for a job. With the right tools and resources, you don’t have to. You can use assistive technology such as screen readers or networking platforms like LinkedIn to take your job search to the next level.
Article by Cheryl Conklin. You can reach her at cheryl@wellnesscentral.info! Image via Pexels