Job Search Strategies

Focus on Abilities

Perhaps you are concerned that your disability could increase the difficulty in obtaining employment. Your disability need not impose bariers on your search.

The key lies in developing effective methods for marketing your strengths and abilities to employers.

• Target the positions for which you are applying by using Job search tactics.
• Identify the skills and abilities that you possess to do the job. See Job Seeking skills at main page on Disability Resources Web Site.
• Consider the types of accommodations you might need to perform while on the job. Be prepared to describe the accommodation in positive terms the employer can understand. For additional information for your specific disability, meet with the career specialist for Deaf and Disabled Students or just click on Useful Internet Resource Sites.

  Application Forms

  Employers are not allowed to ask "Do you have a disability? If so, please explain." The majority of employers have not corrected their application forms and many still ask this. You have the right to leave the answer blank or to put "N/A" (not applicable).

  Resumes

  Whether or not you state your disability is a matter of personal preference. A resume is an instrument you will use to convince a potential employer to grant you an interview and should focus on qualifications for the job.

  Most students prefer to leave disability information off the resume, thus having the opportunity to make a positive presentation in person.

  Interviews

  Employers want to know one thing. Can you do the job? If your disability is "visible," a potential employer may wonder whether your disability will pose problems in getting the work accomplished.

  If these concerns are not addressed, you are not going to get the offer. Your responsibility is to initiate discussion of abilities and accommodations.

  Try to anticipate concerns the employer may have, acknowledge the concerns, then discuss how your skills and accommodations will allay difficulties.

  Make sure your potential employer fully understands your qualifications and ability to perform the job.

  If you plan to visit our campus, a map is provided for viewing. Just click on the word map.

  The Career Center is located in the Student Union Building, on the 2nd Floor. An Elevator is provided for individuals with mobility problems.

  To contact me via email mailto: mmd42850@huey.csun.edu

  For additional information or assistance in addressing your rights and questions employers can and cannot ask in interviews, schedule an appointment with the Career Specialist for Deaf/Disabled Students at (818)885-2878 or (818)885-3066 TDD

  This Web Page was designed by Don Hainesworth - Last Updated May 28, 1996