Securing your next dream job is now easier than ever with the rapid rate at which technology is progressing. For people living with disabilities, technology has opened up the scope of possibilities even more. If you're in such a situation and are looking for a way to break into a career you've always dreamed of, below are a few tips on using technology to your advantage.
The Option of Remote Work
Remote work has become an increasingly accessible work option, as a considerably higher percentage of the workforce now works from home than before. This allows workers to tailor their environment to support their needs. Another benefit of remote work is that employees don't have the added responsibility of getting to work. This can be significantly advantageous for people with disabilities who might not have the means to use conventional modes of transport to commute.
Finding a Remote Job
When you’re ready to look for a great remote job, take the time to set up or polish up your LinkedIn profile. Regardless of how you feel about social media, LinkedIn is a staple for many businesses, and it’s a great place to look for employment. Gather any endorsements you can, update your resume section, and make all of the connections you can because you never know who is connected in the areas you need. Some other sites worth exploring include Meetup, Jobcase, Opportunity, and Bark.
Finding What You're Good At
Suppose you have yet to decide on what it is you'd like to pursue as a career. In this instance, the online employment space can allow you to really explore the many available careers there are. Furthermore, if you have a specific skill that you can do irrespective of where you are based, freelancing could be the ideal platform to start a business from the comfort of your home. There is no shortage of online platforms that advertise home-based positions. However, Wired magazine notes that you’ll need to make sure that your home office is set up adequately with all the essentials you will need to be able to work remotely.
If you need to go back to school for a degree to beef up your skillset, there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a course of study. This includes researching which colleges offer certain programs, which may be specialized coursework depending on your career path. Also, getting some assistance with essays is a great idea.
The Advantages of Assistive Technology
Not only can technology assist job seekers in finding work, but specialized assistive technology can also enable job seekers with disabilities to do their job well and with as few disruptions as possible. Some examples of assistive technology that can aid you in performing your tasks better include innovative and accessible keyboards for those who are unable to operate conventional keyboards. In addition, special apps and computer software such as video editing services can help improve and enhance standard computer programs to make them more functional for the visual or hearing impaired, for example.
Some Popular Business Examples
While there are work options that cater to people living with disabilities, they can be hard to find. Therefore, starting your own home-based business may be a worthwhile option if you prefer the flexibility and luxury of working from home. If this is your preference, you’ll need to set up a space that will allow you to work efficiently and comfortably. This might involve a bit of an investment, but save your receipts; not only will they come in handy since you can write off some of the expenses, but the upgrades can also influence your home's value.
Below are a few popular business types for those living with a disability.
Buying and Selling
Whether it's old items you want to get rid of or new items that you want to resell at a markup, BigCommerce points out that buying and selling online is a profitable home-based business worth looking into.
Fixing and Repairing
If you happen to be more technically inclined and are exceptionally skilled at fixing and repairing things, then starting a repair business from home may be the way to go.
Data Work
Data entry work is another example of remote-based work that can provide a steady stream of income if you don't mind doing repetitive-type work.
Virtual Assistance
Becoming a virtual assistant is a popular option these days, and businesses are booming more because of the rise in remote work. Furthermore, finding work in this field is probably just as easy as starting your own business. It relies on discovering what your niche is and then building your brand upon that.
The examples are but a few of the job types that are proving to be exceptionally popular in today's online world of remote work and remote possibilities.
Do What You Love
Finding your dream career really is possible, and you can find what it is that you love, no matter your background or particular set of circumstances in life. In fact, with the advancement of technology, there are boundless opportunities at your doorstep just waiting to be discovered.
BC Partners in Workforce Innovation helps businesses and employers connect with talented, qualified individuals with disabilities. Get in touch by emailing jamie@bcpartnerswin.org.
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