Look Past a Person’s Disability and Focus on their Capability

I have rheumatoid vasculitis. I’ve been told it’s hereditary, but no one in my family has it. There was a time when I was actually bedridden for nine months and couldn’t work. Now I’m in pain-management mode. I watch my diet. And I push myself to stay physically active. But, I can’t walk long distances. It also takes work to keep a positive attitude. But, an optimistic outlook makes me feel better.

I have worked for Freedom Disability for nearly seven years. If you ask me what I think about hiring people with disabilities, let me begin by saying, I am disabled, not unable. Why hire me? Well, what about my skill set? What about my work ethic? I think employers should think past a person’s disability and instead focus on that person’s capabilities.

The interview process –here’s where issues begin –the face-to-face meetings. Some people are intimidated by a person’s impairments. I think employers should be more open-minded. Get past the visible signs of a disability and not automatically disqualify a job candidate because of it.

I know there are companies that may be inclined to turn down an individual with a disability because the Americans with Disabilities Act states that, if necessary, they must make reasonable work accommodations for that person.  But, really, costs are usually minimal, if necessary at all, and there are tax incentives for hiring people with disabilities, too.

I worked for a company, years ago, that purchased a rolling cart for me so that I could move large quantities of customer files from one side of the building to the other. The cost was less than $50. It was a simple accommodation but it allowed me to be more productive. It was a win-win for both me and the company.

I believe that a person with a disability may have an advantage working for an advocacy group that helps people with disabilities.  I remind staff that the one thing someone with a disability wants to feel is respect. We don’t want to feel singled out or pitied.  We don’t want people doing everything for us. We don’t want people fumbling near us or walking on eggshells. We just want to be treated with respect—just like anyone else.

In my opinion, if the candidate is the best match for the position, then I strongly believe they should be hired –regardless of their disability.