By Tanya Lee, Founder of AbilityVillage
Technology can be a powerful tool for people with disabilities looking to advance their careers. By using the right technology, you can create an accessible environment for yourself and make it easier to succeed in your job search. Here are a few tips on how to use technology to boost your career potential.
Do Your Job Searching Online
It’s important to stay up to date on job postings in your field of interest. There are many websites dedicated to helping people with disabilities find jobs. Many of these sites include resources such as resume-building tools, job search filters, and online forums where you can connect with other people in the same job market as you. These sites are great starting points for finding new opportunities or seeking advice from experienced professionals in your field.
Keep Your LinkedIn Profile Updated
Updating your LinkedIn profile regularly can help employers get a better understanding of who you are and what you bring to the table. Doing so ensures that it accurately reflects any certifications or degrees earned and recent achievements in the field of interest. Cleverism notes that it is essential to keep your profile current, as employers often use it when recruiting potential candidates.
Invest in Accessibility Tools
The US Department of Defense points out that assistive technology is designed to provide extra support for individuals with disabilities. There are many different types of assistive technology available, such as voice recognition software, adaptive keyboard and mouse, eye-tracking devices, and virtual reality headsets. Utilizing these technologies properly could lead to more successful interactions in the workplace, no matter what type of disability someone may possess.
Having access to the right software is also essential if you have a disability and want to advance your career. You may need software that reads text aloud or has a screen reader feature, which can be helpful if you’re visually impaired. Other programs allow users to customize settings so you can easily use your mouse or keyboard without needing assistance from another person. Investing in user-friendly software can save you time and energy when applying for jobs or searching for information related to your career path.
Use Voice Commands
Voice command systems are helpful tools that can make life easier for people with mobility impairments or those who struggle with manual dexterity tasks like typing out emails on a computer keyboard. Being able to control commands through voice recognition allows users more independence while navigating the web or making phone calls related to their job search process. Voice command systems are also useful if you need help organizing your day-to-day activities, such as setting reminders about upcoming interviews or meetings.
Earn a Degree Online
If you're looking to further your career, try an online degree program. Many colleges and universities offer these programs for students with disabilities, allowing them to work at their own pace from home. These degrees often come with flexible payment plans and financial aid, making it easier to budget education costs.
With the right program, you can advance your career to the next level. For example, a bachelor’s degree in computer science can expand your knowledge in areas like networking, software engineering, and cybersecurity. You can also attain certifications that allow you to further specialize your skillset.
Use PDFs and PDF Tools
When applying for jobs, it's important to store documents securely and legibly. Consider this option: converting documents into PDF format preserves formatting and makes them easier to share electronically. PDFs are also the easiest way to create accessible documents, so use them when you create and share content.
Launch Your Own Business
Working for someone else can be challenging when you have a disability. Despite increased awareness and protections, including the Americans with Disabilities Act, many employers do not understand the complex needs many people with disabilities face daily. Another option is to consider becoming your own boss!
It’s not as hard as it sounds if you have a good idea and the drive to accomplish your goal. After you complete a business plan, you’ll need to explore funding options. There are many grants available for people with disabilities and veterans, so investigate those options first, as grants do not need to be repaid.
Next, you’ll need to create a marketing plan. Be sure to build a social media profile, a website, and a good content marketing strategy to get people interested in your business. There are lots of great free resources on how to create quality content that people will want to read.
Use Your Resources to Follow Your Career Aspirations
With just a few steps, anyone living with a disability can leverage technology as a means of advancing their career goals, regardless of what those goals might be. The tips should give you an idea of how best to utilize various types of technology to maximize your chances of success during the job search journey.
SourceAbled is your autism, neurodiversity, and disability hiring solution providing a collaborative, holistic framework designed to develop people, create inclusionary processes, and foster a culture of belonging. Contact us today to learn more! 908-704-8843
