In a world that often views disability through a narrow lens, the high unemployment rate among people with disabilities persists as a stark reminder of the challenges they face. But there’s a hidden truth behind this statistic – one that goes beyond society’s biases against those with vision loss and other disabilities.
On one side of the equation, there’s the issue of pervasive bias. People frequently focus solely on the perceived disadvantages of vision loss or disability, overlooking the unique skills, talents, and experiences that individuals bring to the table.
Here’s where the other side of the story comes into play – people with disabilities often spend too much time trying to fit in, to be just like everyone else, that they forget to, or aren’t confident enough to leverage their distinct strengths. It’s time for a paradigm shift; it’s time to focus on your competitive advantages.
A Personal Story
Let me share this personal story that exemplifies this shift. My younger blind son, Mitch, was having trouble finding summer employment. He met with a coach, my Thriving Blind Academy partner Charlie Collins, to learn how to change his own viewpoint on navigating the job-seeking process. This transformative experience was the first step in realizing the untapped potential within him.
As Mitch embarked on his job search, employers in our hometown had the opportunity to see “The Greatest Equalizer,” a short film I co-created. The film, catering to the IT niche, opened their minds to possibilities and a potential game-changer. They were ready to make adaptations for Mitch to work in a retail position.
But Mitch, with new insight from Charlie’s coaching, recognized that the quick-fix of buying an accessible cash register was not the perfect solution for him or the company. So, he took the initiative to share his unique skills, talents, and experiences with them, emphasizing the value he could bring to their organization. This proactive approach led to a more fitting role for Mitch, where he spent his summer entertaining hundreds of people who visited the establishment. He proved, through his talents, that blind individuals are just as capable and fun as anyone else.
Know and Communicate Ability in Disability
While so many are working to change the narrative around disability in the workforce, it’s high time that people with disabilities recognize their distinctive talents and abilities and take responsibility to communicate them. Your unique skills are your competitive edge. Embrace them, celebrate them, and share them with the world. The workforce is enriched when we appreciate the diversity of experiences and talents that each individual brings.
For everyone in the workforce, consider this a call to action. Check out the trailer to “The Greatest Equalizer” at www.ThrivingBlindAcademy.org/film. Consider booking a screening or workshop to expand your perspective on the incredible abilities of individuals with disabilities. Let’s break down the barriers, challenge the status quo, and create a world where uniqueness and diversity are celebrated, not hidden.
What Blind/Low Vision Job Seekers Can Do
For those job seekers that are blind or low vision, reach out to Thrivers@ThrivingBlindAcademy.org to join our community and empower yourself to gain employment in the job you want. In embracing your unique strengths, you can transform the way the world sees disability and unlock a world of opportunities. Your competitive edge is waiting to be discovered, shared, and celebrated. Embrace it.
Discover the power of embracing ability and advantage in disability through Kristin Smedley’s transformative books, impactful speaking engagements, enlightening workshops, and thought-provoking films. Dive into her best-selling book “Thriving Blind” on Amazon, and elevate your next event by booking Kristin at kristinsmedley.com to ignite conversations that foster inclusivity and empowerment.
