How to Job Hunt When You Use a Wheelchair

Job hunting can be hard enough, but when you use a wheelchair, you can find extra obstacles in your way. These shouldn't be a roadblock to achieving the career progress you want. It just means thinking creatively to find ways around them. There are a few things you might want to consider when you start firing off those applications.

When you begin your search, think about the jobs you can realistically manage. Office-based work is ideal, because nine times out of ten the space can be adapted to accommodate your wheelchair, and any employer worth their salt would do so. Working from home is turning out to be a popular alternative, and that has the added bonus of not having to commute.

You have your own unique set of personal skills and talents, so make sure you polish your CV and provide concrete examples of past achievements. You may or may not choose to disclose your disability at this stage – it really comes down to personal choice and an assessment of the workplace you're applying to.

If the company seems pretty relaxed, they're not going to bat an eyelid at a candidate who uses a wheelchair. If they seem a little cagey on their disability policies, it might be worth not mentioning it. They might not be expecting it at the interview, but blow them away with your answers and only the most narrow-minded wouldn't be able to see beyond the wheelchair.

Do your homework on them before you apply. See if you can find out about other people with disabilities who work for them, or what the workplace culture seems like. How accessible is the building? How easy would it be to commute?

If you are offered an interview, really focus on your skills and what you have to offer. The same would hold for any candidate. You have just as much chance as anyone else applying, so never hold back on putting yourself forward.