What You Need to Know When Pursuing a Business Career as a Young Adult With a Disability
According to interviews conducted with workers with various disabilities, having a disability makes professional life more challenging in numerous ways. The first and foremost of these obstacles is successfully interviewing for and landing a job. Be sure to avoid critical mistakes when searching for potential employers on sites like LinkedIn, and consider a few key pieces of information that may help you or someone you know to advance your career in the business world despite these challenges.
1. Neurodiversity
Neurodiverse individuals often struggle to learn some material but excel in other subjects. Those with autism spectrum disorder, for example, may find interpersonal interactions difficult but thrive when asked to memorize facts, attend to details, or adhere to routines. The key to finding your niche in the business world as a neurodiverse young adult is selecting a career path that highlights your strengths. Information technology, accounting, and supply chain management are often good options for professionals with ASD.
Notably, some companies are known for their willingness to partner with neurodiverse job applicants. Engaging with hiring managers at these sites is a smart way to get your foot in the door at an accounting firm, tech company, or retail store.
2. Physical Disabilities
The business world also holds many opportunities for young adults with physical disabilities. One of the advantages of pursuing a business career when you have a disability is that you can sort through a long list of positions until you find one that is a good fit. Whether you are interested in crunching numbers, managing employees, or selling products, there is something out there for you.
Additionally, research shows that remote positions are on the rise. Being able to telecommute, even if it isn't every day, may reduce the number of obstacles you must overcome on a daily basis in order to fulfill your responsibilities.
3. Higher Education
Many business-related jobs require at least a bachelor's degree, if not a master's. When it comes to undergraduate studies, some of the most lucrative degrees are those centered on topics such as accounting, marketing, finance, and even international business. Almost all of these fields will require a bachelor’s degree to get your foot in the door.
Earning a Master's in Business Administration is often a smart career move, as well. When you complete an MBA program, you gain widespread knowledge about various topics, including statistics, economics, marketing, and accounting. This way, you can round out those areas your undergraduate program didn't emphasize. Having an MBA opens the door to many upper-level positions, such as business administrator, general manager, and operations director.
4. Internships and Entry-Level Jobs
When it comes time to apply for your first internship or job, make sure to start the process early, preparing a stellar resume and portfolio well before the final due date. Here's a free resume builder to help you get started. Showing off your work, skills, and accomplishments in this way may help your interviewer appreciate all you have to offer the company. Remember that you are also protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act, and it's important to have a clear understanding of your rights.
If you have difficulty finding a position that’s right for you, one option is to found your own company. It can be challenging to know where to start, but you can estimate the cost to set up your startup with online tools. This will help you think through all the expenses you’ll have starting your business.
Finding your professional niche is never easy, but this task may become overwhelming when you are up against the added challenges of having a disability. Be sure to take advantage of all the tools at your disposal so you can land a job you love.
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