For many people, choosing to seek employment is a crucial part of their Independent Living journey. However, there are several steps to take before you submit that first application. From general information to personalized support, Michigan provides a variety of resources to help you pursue employment. Below, find four tips for preparing to launch an incredible career:
Know Your Rights.
The Americans with Disabilities Act established several protections for workers with disabilities. However, just because it’s the law doesn’t mean every employer is compliant. Disability Rights Michigan has created a helpful guide outlining disability rights and key resources across the state. You can access the guide here. Your local Center for Independent Living can also assist you in understanding your rights and requesting accommodations at your place of employment.
Determine Your Interests.
Several employment opportunities and career fields exist, and it can be difficult to choose a path. Finding out which jobs are available is one way to narrow down your interests to a specific field or job type. Michigan Talent Connect’s Pathfinder tool provides general information about career fields and potential occupations. Michigan Works! OneStop Service Centers maintain databases of job openings and offer a variety of services for job seekers. Michigan Rehabilitation Services provides support and guidance for individuals with disabilities who are exploring their career options. Finally, your local Center for Independent Living can provide career coaching and preparation to assist you in achieving your employment goals.
Consider a Mentor.
Mentors provide valuable insights and support in and out of the workplace. Peer mentors can help people build confidence and refine skills before seeking employment, and career-related mentors can offer advice and assistance with on-the-job scenarios. The State of Michigan’s Peer Mentoring program matches people with developmental disabilities with a peer who can help them learn self-advocacy and problem solving skills. The Centers for Independent Living also offer peer mentoring and support for both career-related and general lifestyle concerns. Individual employers may also have in-house mentorship programs to help new hires thrive at work, so be sure to ask when you are job searching!
Believe in Yourself.
We all bring valuable talents and skills to the table, and we deserve to work in places that appreciate our contributions, compensate us fairly, and treat us with respect. Celebrating your unique attributes and affirming your worth will help you recognize workplaces that would be a bad fit and hone in on the employers who will invest in you and your career. It will also boost your confidence and resilience as you go through the application and interview process.
The beginning stages of a job search can be daunting yet exciting, and with the right tools, you can get on the road to career success. Don’t forget to reach out to your nearest Center for Independent Living for assistance, or find additional resources to move your independent living goals forward here.