Finding a job can be challenging for anyone. People with disabilities can face additional obstacles such as inaccessible workplaces and wrong perceptions about their abilities.
Dealing with obstacles
Since it’s Disability Employment Awareness Month, we want to remind you that there are ways to overcome barriers so you can build a meaningful career.
- Know your rights. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects against discrimination and guarantees the right to reasonable accommodations during hiring and employment. Understanding these protections helps you advocate for yourself with confidence.
- Connect with support networks. Vocational rehabilitation agencies, disability employment programs, and nonprofits can help with job coaching, resume building, interview prep, and connecting you to inclusive employers.
- Use assistive technology to your advantage. Screen readers, adaptive keyboards, voice-to-text tools, and other devices can make job tasks more accessible.
- Be your own advocate. Highlight your strengths and focus on what you bring to the workplace—skills, creativity, and persistence. Seek out employers who actively recruit workers with disabilities.
Resources to help you take charge
Our website has many work-related resources to help you including:
- Self-advocacy tips
- Your employment rights
- Job training and support from Texas Vocational Rehab
- When you have problems getting help from Texas Vocational Rehab
- Asking for a workplace accommodation
- Filing a discrimination charge with the EEOC
- Returning to work for people who receive disability-related SSI and SSDI