News and notes from Imagine! and the Imagine! Foundation.
How Technology Can Benefit People With Disabilities at Work
Aug-30-2022
Technology
Today’s blog post is a guest post submitted by Patrick Young of Able USA.
People living with disabilities are typically resourceful community members. Unfortunately, they don't always get the chance to compete equitably in the work environment. At the same time, advances in technology mean they're more equipped than ever to pursue and advance their career goals. Investment in technologies to help disabled people have created more opportunities for people with disabilities, making it easier to work as freelancers or even start your own business in Lafayette. Read on for some ways that people with disabilities can use technology to advance in their careers.
Image via Pexels
Job Hunting
The internet is a good resource when looking for jobs. There are plenty of remote jobs from disability advocacy groups, freelance job boards, advertisements, and job placement services. According to research, approximately half of the American working population will work from home by 2027. Working from home allows you to work in a familiar and accessible environment. Examples of jobs you can work from home include accounting, customer service, and marketing.
When job hunting, you should consider building a network on LinkedIn, too, since plenty of remote jobs are posted on the platform. Ensure you explain your skills and accomplishments in detail. Make sure your LinkedIn profile photo is top quality, and your bio briefly details your expertise. Try to connect with the right networks, and consider enrolling for the premium version that lets you message specific people or identify who is looking at your profile.
Assistive Technologies
Assistive technologies have advanced over the years. This means you can now access more resources that will enable you to flourish in your career. Assistive technologies include graphic organizers, text-to-speech software, and ergonomic devices perfect for individuals with visual impairment, communication barriers, and mobility issues.
Entrepreneurship
Digitization has expanded opportunities for disabled people in entrepreneurship, as starting and running a business from home is now possible. You can create and market digital products through internet technology without worrying about physical mobility. For instance, you could sell e-books or graphic designs, edit copy or write freelance, creating an independent source of income.
Career Advancement
The trend of remote working has made it easier to pursue further studies or career training from the comfort of your home. As a result, you have the opportunity to sharpen your skills and become more competitive in your working environment.
With advancements in technology, you can get a virtual trainer on the skill of your choice and schedule classes at your convenience. For instance, you can get training as a medical programmer if you’re interested in growing your medical coding career. The best medical coding course online can teach you how to assign codes accurately. When you complete the course, you can take an exam and prove your skills.
Interviewing Tips
Although revealing your disability during an interview isn't required, you may decide to be upfront about it and discuss your capabilities and accommodation needs. It's also advisable to discuss how you overcome particular challenges and the technologies needed to assist you.
Choose the Right Technology for You
Despite the fact that people with disabilities continue to face multiple challenges in career development, technological advancements are breaking down barriers. If you're in Lafayette, reach out to the Imagine! community-centered board for access to more resources and information.
