Finding the right job as a dyslexic
Adults with learning disabilities (LD) often face unique challenges in the workplace. Individuals with LD can overcome these challenges and sustain rewarding and fulfilling employment.
Before The Job Search Begins
Searching for employment can be a long and difficult process. Success in the workplace begins with careful decision-making. Match your interests with job prospects; look for openings in lines of work that will sustain your attention and keep you motivated. Identify tasks that you would find rewarding (research, physical labor,interacting with the public); look for positions that tap these areas.
Identify any skills (typing, filing, managing, supervising, organizing) that can contribute to your success. Consider your personality traits (outgoing, warm, shy) when choosing work; evaluate if the work setting is conducive to your needs. Be sensitive to your work values (working hard, helping others, maximizing free time) and be sure they coincide with the job requirements and are consistent with those of co-workers.
Role-play the job interview process as a way to decrease anxiety and to build self confidence.
Beginning The Job Search
Interviews, resumes, and applications are perhaps the most important elements in searching for a job. Potential employers often rely upon initial impressions when evaluating candidates.
Avoid common mistakes on resumes and applications: read instructions carefully; be sure that all letters, resumes, and applications are thoroughly proofread; submit only materials that are neat and easy to read; sign and date forms as requested; answer the questions!
Meeting them in person
Be prompt to appointments; allow for unexpected delays in travel. Dress appropriately; as a general rule, formal business attire is recommended. Bring copies of materials with you; the person conducting the interview may not have seen your application file, and you may wish to refer to a document during your meeting.
Be realistic about salary level and benefits; provide information about prior employment and speak openly about successes and frustrations.
Seek information about potential employers before an interview; try to speak with someone who works for the firm or is in the same industry.
Before The Job Search Begins
Searching for employment can be a long and difficult process. Success in the workplace begins with careful decision-making. Match your interests with job prospects; look for openings in lines of work that will sustain your attention and keep you motivated. Identify tasks that you would find rewarding (research, physical labor,interacting with the public); look for positions that tap these areas.
Identify any skills (typing, filing, managing, supervising, organizing) that can contribute to your success. Consider your personality traits (outgoing, warm, shy) when choosing work; evaluate if the work setting is conducive to your needs. Be sensitive to your work values (working hard, helping others, maximizing free time) and be sure they coincide with the job requirements and are consistent with those of co-workers.
Role-play the job interview process as a way to decrease anxiety and to build self confidence.
Beginning The Job Search
Interviews, resumes, and applications are perhaps the most important elements in searching for a job. Potential employers often rely upon initial impressions when evaluating candidates.
Avoid common mistakes on resumes and applications: read instructions carefully; be sure that all letters, resumes, and applications are thoroughly proofread; submit only materials that are neat and easy to read; sign and date forms as requested; answer the questions!
Meeting them in person
Be prompt to appointments; allow for unexpected delays in travel. Dress appropriately; as a general rule, formal business attire is recommended. Bring copies of materials with you; the person conducting the interview may not have seen your application file, and you may wish to refer to a document during your meeting.
Be realistic about salary level and benefits; provide information about prior employment and speak openly about successes and frustrations.
Seek information about potential employers before an interview; try to speak with someone who works for the firm or is in the same industry.
