APPLYING FOR A JOB WITH A DISABILITY

By Marlijn van der Bok

Marlijn van der Bok from the UK has some tips for people with a disability applying for a job. What is obvious to someone without a disability is a completely different story for a job seeker with a disability. You may feel that you are 1-0 behind. Sometimes you are not even invited for an interview or you don’t make it through the first round because of your disability. Getting help with finding a job when you have a disability is especially welcome. That is why she has listed job application tips for people with a chronic illness, limitation or disability. With an employment disability, it is unfortunately a fact that you cannot perform all types of work. Someone who is blind will not become a driver, someone who is deaf will not become an interpreter, and someone in a wheelchair will likely not become a guide on mountain hikes. But of course, as a job seeker with a disability, there are plenty of jobs that you can do! Here are some tips for applying for a job with a disability.

Focus on what you can do: First, explore the answer to the question “What can I do?” To this end, you mainly focus on what you can do within the limits of your disability. For example, you may be able to complete a task, but you would do it differently and might require an accommodation. Therefore, think in terms of possibilities, and ask yourself to what extent you can perform your job properly. Also, be mindful that you don’t work in a position that might make your condition worse: your health always comes first.

Don’t mention your disability on your resume: list your education, work experience, a profile, and skills that may be relevant to the position. Whether you self-declare your disability later is up to you. Be sure to list your education, work experience, a profile, and skills that may be relevant to the position.

Marlijn has great ideas about preparing for an interview and more. You can check out her blog at resume.io.