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People with disabilities often face unnecessary hardships and discrimination, but advances in disability advocacy and assistive technologies have helped to make the world a little more inclusive, especially in the work world. If you have a disability, you might think that your career options are limited. But thanks to the power of technology, that’s not the case at all! Below, Zitrod discusses how people with disabilities can use technology to their advantage in their careers.
Assistive Technology for Professionals With Disabilities
One of the best things about technology is that it’s always evolving — including assistive technology. Assistive technology is any device or software that helps people with disabilities overcome obstacles and live more independently. And there are all sorts of assistive technologies available to help people with different types of disabilities in different ways.
Some common examples of these technologies include:
- Voice-recognition software: allows users to control their computers using only their voices, which can be helpful for people who have difficulty using a mouse or keyboard.
- Screen-reader software: reads text aloud for users who are blind or have low vision.
- Alternative input devices: let users input information into their computers using methods other than a traditional keyboard and mouse. For instance, there are special keyboards that can be operated with one hand, head pointers, eye-gaze systems, and more.
Business Ideas That Allow You To Work From Home
Many people with disabilities find it difficult to work in traditional office settings. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have a successful career! Thanks to the internet, there are many businesses you can start from home. Here are a few ideas:
- Start a blog.
- Launch an eCommerce store.
- Become a social media influencer.
- Do freelance work.
- Teach English online.
Explore Different Employment Options
Many employers are now offering remote positions as accommodation for employees with disabilities. So if you prefer to work for an employer instead of starting your own business from home, that’s definitely an option! Some common examples of remote jobs include customer service representative, project manager, data entry specialist, writer/editor, and virtual assistant. And there are lots of websites (like Remote.co) that curate remote job openings from employers all over the world.
Your resume is critical for impressing potential employers and opening doors to a successful career. One way to make your resume or CV stand out is to use a free online template. You can try this tool, which provides a variety of layout options, to organize your work experience, education, and skills in an aesthetically pleasing way. Make sure that you choose a layout that reflects your industry and position type, too.
Update Your LinkedIn Page
LinkedIn is an excellent resource for professionals to showcase their skills and accomplishments. Be sure to include a good photo on your profile and to build your network by connecting with colleagues, classmates, and others in your field. You can also join groups related to your profession or interests to connect with like-minded people. Updating your LinkedIn page regularly will help you stay top of mind with potential employers or clients.
Refresh Your Skills
Perhaps you want to enter an industry that requires particular skills that you don’t currently have. Don’t give up! You can pursue many new skills from home. You can take online training courses on almost anything, from coding to drawing and from music to welding.
If you are looking for a more formal education, you can choose a program that is offered fully online. There are many credible colleges and universities that offer these online programs regularly. For example, with the degree in information systems from an accredited online university, you could pursue a variety of technology-related positions upon completion or even during your coursework.
Know Your Rights
The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) prohibits discrimination against employees with disabilities. The ADA National Network explains that ADA also requires employers to make reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities, unless doing so would create an undue hardship. This includes changing the work environment or providing special equipment or seating.
Employers are also prohibited from asking employees about their disabilities or the nature and severity of their disabilities. This includes questions about whether an employee is currently taking medication for their disability, how long they have had the disability, or whether they can perform specific job duties.
Employers may ask employees whether they need a reasonable accommodation to perform their job duties but cannot require employees to disclose their disability to receive a reasonable accommodation.
Start Planning Your Next Career Move
As you can see, there are many ways that people with disabilities can use technology to their advantage in their careers — from home to working remotely for an employer to starting their own businesses. Remember to research the various tools and services that can help you succeed, improve your CV and LinkedIn page, and consider enrolling in online classes to improve your skill set. You’ll be positioned for a thriving career in no time!