Starting a Business Career for Young Adults with Disabilities
The above picture shows a woman sitting in her wheelchair working at her desk next to a male who is standing.
Starting a Business Career for Young Adults with Disabilities
The United States stands as a beacon of
opportunity for young adults with disabilities looking to pursue a business
career. The country is known for its inclusivity and support for diverse
talent. As a young person with a disability, you’re in a great place to embark
on your professional journey. If you want to work in the exciting world of
business, the Talent
Acquisition Portal outlines everything you need to know to get
started!
Start
Networking
The earlier you start networking, the better.
Networking is more than about exchanging business cards; it’s an excellent
opportunity to forge connections that will help you build a successful career.
Networking provides a chance to connect with mentors who understand the unique
challenges and triumphs of navigating a career with a disability. At the same
time, it opens doors to inclusive employers eager to embrace diverse talent.
Start actively networking now and continue throughout your career.
Get
Your Degree
Next, it’s time to evaluate your educational
options. Obtaining a degree is a pivotal
step! While there's no one-size-fits-all approach, Scholaroo explains that some
degrees have shown to be particularly lucrative in the business world,
including actuarial science, information resources management, and finance.
Fortunately, there are many educational institutions committed to inclusivity,
offering a range of accommodations such as accessible classrooms, digital
resources, note-taking assistance, and extended exam times. These
accommodations ensure you have a fair chance to excel!
Find an
Entry-Level Position
Finding the right entry-level position begins
with your passion. Identify a business field that truly ignites your
enthusiasm. For example, if your heart is set on opening a real estate
business, start by seeking employment with established real estate companies
that offer diverse job opportunities. The real estate industry includes a
number of exciting departments, so consider exploring
a few specialties to learn what’s involved in running a full-fledged
real estate business.
Business News Daily notes that creating a compelling resume is the next
crucial step. Take advantage of free online resume templates to simplify this
process. For example, you can find a resume maker online providing a library of
professionally designed resume templates that you can customize with your own
copy, colors, photos, and other personal branding elements. This will help you
create a strong first impression with potential employers.
Leverage
Your Strengths
Diversity is more than a buzzword in the world
of business. Businesses can enjoy countless benefits from diverse hiring! When
crafting your resume and speaking in job interviews, focus on the various
strengths you bring to the table. Remember that your ability to adapt,
problem-solve creatively, and demonstrate resilience in the face of challenges
sets you apart. A diverse business landscape celebrates and values these
strengths, so embrace your unique skills and perspectives that will drive your
career forward.
Know
Your Rights
Every state is committed to upholding the
rights and protections enshrined in the Americans
with Disabilities Act (ADA). This legislation ensures equal access
and opportunities in employment, public services, and accommodations.
Familiarize yourself with the ADA and specific provisions that are relevant to
your situation. You’ll find plenty of advocacy groups and legal resources ready
to provide guidance and support, ensuring you can avoid discrimination and
advocate for reasonable accommodations in the workplace.
An inclusive and opportunity-rich landscape
provides young adults with disabilities an ideal platform to embark on a
thriving business career. By forging valuable connections through networking,
selecting the right degree program, building an eye-catching resume, and
exploring different business fields, such as real estate, you can lay a strong
foundation for your future career. Equip yourself with the right tools and
resources, and you’ll confidently navigate your path ahead!
The Talent Acquisition Portal includes both a national talent pool of
vocational rehabilitation candidates looking for employment and a job posting
system for businesses looking to hire individuals with disabilities. Contact us
today to learn more! info@tapability.org