Through the MassHire Career Centers, job seekers can access information about federal, state and local programs that assist individuals with disabilities in gaining employment. Other free services include:
- Workshops on resume writing
- Interviewing techniques
- Career counseling
Job Search Tips for Workers with Disabilities
MassHire Career Center employment specialists offer the following tips for job seekers with a disability:
Focus on your abilities and not disabilities. The interview process is a tool used by an employer to determine if the applicant is qualified for the job and whether the individual will be a good fit for the company. While an employer cannot use the interview or the application process to inquire about a disability, you may want to let the employer know that your ability to perform the job will not be affected.
Practice interviewing before the interview. Mock interview sessions with trusted friends and relatives are recommended. Job seekers should ensure that they dress appropriately for the workplace. Look at employees in similar companies and select clothing that is similar. Making eye contact with the interviewer is also important.
Be realistic about what types of positions match well with your abilities. Researching a variety of different occupations to find a good fit is essential.
Take advantage of services offered at agencies that specialize in serving individuals with disabilities. For example, the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC) employs counselors with expertise in assessing employability and how it relates to a disability. MRC is a partner at many Career Centers.
Read up. JobNet Career Center in Boston's disability expert Sharon Tulchinsky recommends the following books: "Successful Job Search Strategies for the Disabled, Understanding the ADAP," by Jeffery G. Allen, J.D., C.P.C.; Job-Hunting for the So-Called Handicapped or People Who Have Disabilities," by Richard Nelson Bolles and Dale Susan Brown; No One is Unemployable, Creative Solutions for Overcoming Barriers to Employment," by Debra L. Angle and Elisabeth E. Harney.
Become an expert. Job seekers should work to hone as many new skills as possible in order to become an expert in a particular area. Doing so makes anyone more valuable to an employer.
Keep in mind that employers are looking for the best qualified candidate. Use your skills and capabilities to your advantage. Skilled workers in a number of occupations will be in even more demand in the not so distant future.
Assistive Technology at the Career Centers
Some of the assistive technology provided in the Career Centers for customers with disabilities is listed below. Please note that not all the MassHire Career Centers have the same equipment available.
- JAWS - Screen reading software for individuals who are blind
- ZoomText - Magnification software for individuals who are visually impaired
- Dragon Naturally Speaking - Hands-free voice-activated software
- Pocket Talker - Assistive Listening Device for individuals who are hard-of-hearing
- TTY - Telecommunications device for individuals who are deaf or hard-of-hearing
- Braille Labeler - Labels keyboards, discs, computer stations, in Braille
- Expert Mouse Trackball - Alternative mouse at computer stations
- Kurzweil 1000 - Scanning and reading software for individuals who are blind or visually-impaired
- Kurweil Reader - Assists individuals who have learning disabilities
- FM Hearing Device - Assists individuals who are deaf and hard of hearing
- CCTV - A Closed Circuit Television for individuals who are blind or visually-impaired
- Height Adjustable Tables - Accessible work stations