7 Job-Seeking Tips for People with Disability

Looking to take the first step towards an exciting career? Get started with these handy job-seeking tips.

Beginning your job search brings out all the emotions.

It is nerve-wracking but also exhilarating.

The possibilities for your career are endless.

Yet statistics show that only 22% of NDIS participants aged 15 to 24 are employed.

So, we are sharing a bunch of job-seeking tips to help you land the job of your dreams.

Let’s put you in the spotlight – not your disability.

1. Highlight Your Strengths

Start by focussing on your abilities and the skill set you could bring to a role.

Ask yourself the following questions:

• What am I good at?
• What skills and experience do I have? 
• What jobs would best suit me?
• Can I get any support or training through a disability service provider?
• What voluntary work or work experience can I do to prepare for employment?

Being successful in a new job begins with finding a position that suits your interests and knowledge, so you can start your role with confidence.

Your skills and strengths are what make you unique, just like your personality, hobbies or work ethic.

If you see your disability as a barrier to employment, try reframing your mindset.

‘I may have a disability, but I also have many abilities that employers will value.’

Think of it another way…

Having a disability has already developed many employable skills in you, like creative problem solving, flexibility, adaptability and resilience.

So, where do you start?

A Disability Employment Services provider can assist you with identifying your skills and abilities as well as provide additional support.

Or find a rewarding job with us. Endeavour Foundation employs people with disability right across the east coast.

In fact, we are one of the largest employers of people with disability in Australia.

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2. Prepare Your Resumé and Cover Letter

When you have decided what type of job or jobs you would like, you can start applying for them.

To get started, you will need to prepare two things: a resumé – also known as a curriculum vitae or CV – and a cover letter.

Your resumé outlines your experiences, skills and work history or education.

Your cover letter is designed to demonstrate to an employer who you are and why you are the right person for the role.

If you have never written a resumé or cover letter before, there are plenty of templates available online.

3. Stay Positive During Your Job Search

Landing a job right away is uncommon, so be prepared that your job-seeking journey may take time.

Job rejections can be a hit to your confidence, but staying positive is crucial. Believe in yourself and your skills and abilities.

Do not give up, and make sure you are surrounded by people who cheer you on. Here are some ways to stay positive during this time:

• Find ways to maintain motivation. Remember why you began searching for a job and create a vision board or a list of reasons.
• Allocate time each day to search and apply for jobs. It will keep you motivated and help you develop time-management skills for when you find work.
• Make a gratitude jar. Every day, write something, big or small, that you are grateful for and put it in an empty jar. On a day that you do not have the motivation, just go to your jar and read one of your messages.

4. Learn From Your Experiences

Each interview you attend creates a chance to practice your skills and build your confidence. It brings you one step closer to finding the right job.

You have likely heard the saying, ‘practice makes perfect’. Well, it is true.

The more you practise answering interview questions, the more confident you will be.

Also, if you have been rejected for a role, ask the employer for feedback. This will help you to improve during your next interview.

5. Plan for Your Long-Term Employment Goal

Just as your NDIS goals change, so may your employment goals.

Many people choose to volunteer or participate in work experience to get a taste of what a job is like.

While you are not committed to set hours, volunteering might help you get into the routine of working.

If volunteering is not for you, enrol in online courses or training.

Or upskill at one of our popular Learning and Lifestyle Hubs. These lively meeting places feature all sorts of engaging learning programs and activities tailored to your interests and needs.

6. Know Where to Look for Work

Job hunting can be difficult, but there are various resources available that will help make it easier.

Job Search Websites

If you know the type of job you are looking for, you can begin by searching opportunities in your area by using online platforms like SEEK, Indeed and Jora.

Disability Service Providers

There are various disability services that support people with disability to find the right job for them.

These services can help you navigate the entire employment process, or just the parts you choose, such as preparing for an interview, job training opportunities or further study. They include:

• Australian Disability Enterprises (ADEs): These allow you to gain employment skills that align with your NDIS goals. You will also have access to ongoing coaching and daily support.
• Disability Employment Services (DES): DES provides support to job seekers with disability, injury or a health condition to get ready to work, train in specific job skills, write resumés, prepare for interviews and to look for suitable jobs.
• JobAccess: This government-funded tool supports people with disability to find and keep a job.
• RecruitAbility: The government scheme is designed to encourage the employment of people with disability in the Australian Public Service (APS).
• Endeavour Foundation: We have various dedicated employment pathways designed to help people with disability to find a job they love.

Success story: Chloe is in charge of her story.

7. Outline Your Unique Requirements

Be transparent with your potential employer about workplace modifications you may require to work at your best.

These modifications might be access to a standing desk or screen-reading software or the opportunity to work remotely or flexibly.

With these tips, you can feel empowered in your job-seeking journey and take a positive first step to a rewarding career.

Here to Support You

Forge the career you want.

We are here to support you all of the way.

Our defined job pathways will help you to confidently find your ideal job – and even the one after that!

Keen to find out more?

Get in touch with us today.

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