Advancing Careers Through Technology: A Guide for People With Disabilities
The above picture shows a woman in a wheelchair sitting at her work desk working on her laptop.
Living with differing abilities can come with its own set of unique challenges, especially when it comes to advancing your career. However, with the advancements in technology, there are now more opportunities than ever before to help level the playing field and give everyone an equal chance at career success. In this article, Disabled Person discusses how people with differing abilities can harness the power of technology to advance their careers.
Update Your LinkedIn Profile
One of the first steps you should take is to update your LinkedIn profile. LinkedIn is a powerful tool for networking and job hunting, and having an up-to-date profile is crucial. Make sure to include all of your relevant skills, experiences, and accomplishments. Be sure to also highlight any volunteer work or community involvement you have done. This not only shows your commitment to your community but also demonstrates your ability to be an engaged and active participant in your workplace.
Engage in Virtual Networking
Virtual networking has become increasingly popular. But for people with differing abilities, virtual networking provides a much-needed opportunity to connect with others without the added stress of physical barriers. Handshake advises joining virtual networking groups or attending virtual career fairs. These events not only give you the chance to meet potential employers but also allow you to connect with other professionals in your field.
Look to Job Boards and Career Websites
Traditional job hunting methods like classified ads and in-person job fairs can be challenging for people with differing abilities. Thankfully, many companies now use online job boards and career websites to advertise job openings. Be sure to check out job boards like Disabled Person specifically designed for people with disabilities, which list jobs from companies that are actively seeking to hire people with differing abilities.
Pursue a Degree Online
Remote learning offers significant benefits, especially if you have a disability. It provides the flexibility to create a comfortable learning environment at home, tailored to your specific needs. For example, you can complete your psychology degree online, diving deep into the cognitive and affective processes that drive human behavior. This knowledge is invaluable if you aim to support those in need of psychological help; click for more info.
Make Use of Video Conferencing Tools
Video conferencing tools have quickly become a staple in the business world, and Smashing Magazine notes that they can be incredibly useful for people with differing abilities. If you’re unable to attend an in-person meeting, video conferencing allows you to participate remotely. This opens up new opportunities and the chance to meet with potential employers without having to worry about physical barriers.
Take Advantage of Assistive Technology
Assistive technology can be expensive, but it’s often necessary to level the playing field for people with differing abilities. Whether it’s screen readers, speech recognition software, or assistive devices, investing in these tools can help you perform your job more efficiently and effectively. Many companies also offer accommodations for their employees with differing abilities, so be sure to ask about these resources during the hiring process.
Join Online Professional Associations
Online professional associations can be a valuable resource for people with differing abilities. By joining these organizations, individuals can connect with others in their field and gain access to resources and support specifically tailored to their needs. These groups can provide a sense of community and help individuals achieve their professional goals.
Technology has opened up new opportunities for people with differing abilities to advance their careers. From virtual networking to online job boards, there are now more options than ever before to connect with potential employers and find the right job for you. By utilizing these tools and resources, people with differing abilities can overcome barriers and achieve career success.