Job search for the differently-enabled

IF you are disabled and are looking for work, you will already know that you face more difficulties in your job search than others. At a time when even an able person is finding it hard to secure a good job, a disability can only compound the problems. However, one must remember that disabilities can be overcome to lead a life of dignity. When one has traversed thus far to be qualified to work, a mere handicap should not be allowed to become a 'handicap'.

Like with all other jobs the beginnings lie in accessing work first. So begin your job search by looking for openings in the newspapers, journals and employment gazettes. If reading is a problem have some else read out all the details for you.

Decide on the kind of work you want to do and talk to people who are doing it. Find out how they got the job. There are many organisations, government and private, which have a quota of jobs for differently-enabled people. There are many who will not be bothered by your handicap as long as you deliver the goods.

How and when, should the handicap be stated is really the tricky question. Talking about it too soon may risk your being screened out before the selection process has even begun. Being too late could damage your relationship with a new boss/superior because it will appear that you weren't honest. If the disability prevents the conducting of an interview, for example, if a sign- language interpreter is needed, then the issue must be raised early in the process. In many cases you have a choice whether or when to tell your employer about a handicap. Legally, companies aren't supposed to inquire about a disability before offering a job. But if facilities, like interpreters or special chairs are needed it is best to inform the employer and make arrangements in advance. This will eliminate any unnecessary stress or hindrance during the interview.

Have informed responses ready to your employer's concerns about the likely effect of your disability in the work place.

Lack of clear-cut information may adversely influence both the decision of hiring and acceptance.

To have a clear understanding about workplace situations, contact other people with disabilities who have been employed for some time. Finding out about the difficulties they experienced will help you adapt more easily. Seek the help of disability organisations like Arogya, which provide information on the issue.

Your college/university teachers may be able to assist with the preparation of curriculum vitae, with the interview techniques and also offer employment information.

Learn as much as possible about the prospective employer beforehand. Also find out if there are any other similarly challenged workers in the organisation, the workplace environment, accessibility, parking and other facilities for the handicapped etc. Keep in touch with peers working in other organisations since they will be able to help you judge the organisation's attitude towards its people.

Finally, don't allow yourself to get bogged down with stereotypical jobs. While fields for the disabled have always included routine jobs and mechanical tasks, mostly in banks and railways; many have successfully challenged these limitations and succeeded in exciting new areas.There is no doubt that people with disabilities can be productive and dependable workers. What is essential is often a positive attitude that says-"I may have lost my limbs but I am armed with confidence". Sometimes even those without any disability aren't so abled.

PAROMITA PAIN

paromita.mds@cnkonline.com