1.
Know when and to
whom you should disclose your disability
You never have to disclose your
disability – it’s entirely up to you! If
you decide to share that information, you decide the right time and the right
person to talk to about your disability as it relates to the job. Manage that disclosure carefully.
2.
Be able to verbalize your disability
During your employment, you will
most likely disclose your disability to a friend, co-worker, supervisor,
subordinate or human resource rep. Be prepared.
Think about what you want to say and how you want to say it before you
start talking. Be prepared to share only what is relevant.
3.
Be realistic about your ability-set and how they match with
potential career choices
Your abilities and disabilities
will impact your career paths. Seek out job opportunities that capitalize on
your talents and skills and will not require “unreasonable accommodation” by
employers.
4.
Make an assessment of how the accommodations you use in your
school translate to a job setting
Many employers will fear that reasonable accommodations are expensive, yet over 90% of the time, costs of reasonable accommodations are less than $1,000. Let your potential employer know that you have considered this and have a plan in place.
5.
Research available resources
Be proactive. There are many
resources available to you, but don’t wait until the last minute to do your
homework. Research them before you have an emergency situation. On this website
there are resources available. Know what is out there so that when you need
them they can be easily accessed.
6.
Analyze your support system
What type of support and what amount
of support can you expect/anticipate from those in your circle of support? Will you need daily support, periodic support
or just in an emergency situation? Identify
and address any gaps between what you have and what you need.
7.
Have a can-do attitude
Emphasizing what you can do is
a key to being successful in an interview. It positions you as a
viable candidate, and it keeps the focus on your abilities, and away from your
disability.
8.
In your interview, stay focused on the position and how your
qualifications match
Your goal in an interview is to
present your qualifications as they relate to the desired position.
The more focused you remain on this match, the more effective you will be in
keeping your potential employer focused on why you are a good candidate.
These tips were compiled from a panel discussion made up of representatives from
the Texas
Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services, the UT
Austin Office of Services for Students with Disabilities, Seton Healthcare Family Administration Offices, and VSA Texas
