Learning Disabilities Jobs: How to Get Hired
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Learning Disabilities Jobs: How to Get Hired
As many as 20% of Americans have a learning disability of some kind.
Common learning
disabilities include dyslexia, ADHD, language processing disorders, and
auditory processing disorders. These differences can have a significant impact
on an individual's education process.
But they can also be a
source of anxiety for some individuals looking to enter the job market or
transition to a new position.
However, a learning
disability does not preclude you from getting hired for the position of your
dreams!
There are many steps you
can take to secure the career you desire. In this post, we'll look at the
opportunities you have for learning disabilities jobs!
1. Decide If You Want to Share
The first, most
important thing to keep in mind as you seek a learning disabilities job of any
kind is the fact that you are not required to disclose a learning difference to
future employers.
In fact, your right to
share or not share this information is covered by the Equal Employment
Opportunity Commission.
This is designed to prevent employer bias that could preclude applicants from
full consideration for a position.
As you explore
opportunities for learning disabilities jobs, spend some time thinking about
whether or not you wish to disclose information about your learning difference.
You can make this decision
in a variety of ways. One may be starting with an assessment of your learning
difference's severity. On an average day, how does it impact you, and to what
extent?
Some individuals with
learning disabilities may struggle to retain a lot of information all at once.
They may find it difficult to respond to direct commands, especially if they
have an auditory processing disability.
These types of tasks may
be critical to the job you are applying for. In this case, it may be wise to
inform a potential employer up front that you may require accommodations for
the performance of certain tasks.
On the other hand, you
may feel as if the work duties outlined in a job description fall outside the
scope of your learning difference. In this case, you may feel most comfortable
not sharing.
Whatever the case, make
your decision based off of your needs.
If you do disclose, be
frank, considerate, and descriptive. Rest assured that your disclosure won't
hinder your application status.
2. Build a Support Network
Navigating the job
search can be a taxing and stressful time. As you search for learning
disabilities jobs, make sure you have a reliable support network.
Your support network may
consist of a best friend, family members, and/or a partner. It may also include
a counselor or therapist, mentor, or another working professional.
Inform your support
network that you are looking for a job. Let them know what you need from them
throughout the job search. You may also wish to ask your supporters if they
have ideas for improving your search.
Feeling confident and
secure as you apply for jobs can go a long way in helping you land the position
of your dreams.
3. Search for Jobs That Tap Into Your Strengths
Take some time to
identify your strengths before you actively begin searching for learning
disabilities jobs.
This exercise can help you identify the jobs most likely to enable your success. It can also prepare you for
writing cover letters or participating in an interview.
These strengths may fall
outside of your learning difference. Or they can hinge on your learning
disability itself.
Many individuals with
learning differences, for example, have developed an awareness of their
condition, their needs, and those of others. This type of awareness can be
critical in working team environments.
Individuals without
learning differences may struggle to develop a similar awareness.
Your strengths may
involve communication, developing and maintaining interpersonal relationships,
or organization. You may have a hefty amount of determination and perseverance.
Choose potential jobs
based off of these strengths rather than jobs based off of any perceived
weaknesses.
4. Explore Accommodations
Many employers will offer work accommodations for individuals with learning disabilities. These are often free
or relatively inexpensive for the employer.
If you do require
accommodations for a working environment, identify what these accommodations
are before applying for positions. This way you can clearly state your needs in
an interview.
The more specific you
are about the types of accommodations you need, the more likely an employer
will be to respond accordingly.
Be realistic as you
identify your needed accommodations, and always be honest with your employer if
you communicate these.
5. Find Ways to Communicate
Communication truly is
central to succeeding in any learning disabilities job. When you do get hired,
discover ways to effectively communicate with your employer and colleagues.
Many individuals with
learning differences are anxious about how colleagues will perceive them in a
professional environment. The key to alleviating this anxiety is to communicate
clearly with your peers.
If you have disclosed
your learning difference, consider having a conversation about this with
colleagues. Educate your peers if need be to let them know how best to work
together.
Also ensure that you
communicate regularly with your employer about accommodations, challenges, and
anything else that involves your success in your role.
6. Enjoy the Learning Process
All in all, searching
for learning disabilities jobs can be an exciting and instructive process. It's
a great opportunity to learn about your own strengths and needs.
It can also enable you
to teach others. You can gain valuable confidence by marketing your own
professional skills and communicating with potential employers.
Do your best to enjoy
the learning process, and rest assured that you do have resources for getting the job you need!
How to Get Hired: Learning Disabilities Jobs
If you are affected by a
learning difference of some kind, you may be uncertain as to how to navigate a
job search. However, it is possible to apply for scores of learning
disabilities jobs that can help you jumpstart your career!
Decide whether or not
you wish to disclose information about your learning disability to an employer.
Tap into your support network and search for positions that could leverage your
strengths.
Don't be shy about
requesting accommodations and do your best to communicate clearly once you are
hired!
disABLED Person is your
ultimate resource when it comes to starting your career at any stage in life.
Sign up for your free job search account today!