There’s an App for That: Using Accessible Technology in Your Career

Guest article by Patrick Young and AbleUSA.info

Technology has been improving in leaps and bounds, and computers and smartphones can help us accomplish almost anything. From ordering food to finding love, there’s an app for just about everything. If you’re a person with disabilities, technology can empower you to have the career you’ve always dreamed of. Whether you’re job hunting, interviewing, or working toward career advancement, you can use your smartphone to help you every step of the way.

SEARCHING FOR JOBS

Searching for a job can be a challenge, and for people with disabilities, there are often a few roadblocks. Technology makes the job hunt easier by giving you everything you need in the palm of your hand. Gone are the days of looking for work in the newspaper; postings are all online, and using job search apps will make it easy to find great opportunities wherever you are. If you want to freelance, you can set up a profile on an online job board and connect directly with the businesses and individuals who need your services. Search for jobs while you’re on the go with some of our favorite apps, then prepare a winning resume. You can also connect with Elysian Staffing to find temporary, temp-to-perm, or full-time employment in the creative and marketing industries. If you work outside the creative industry, working with a general recruiting agency or one that specializes in your field can help you land the role of your dreams.

INTERVIEWING FOR JOBS

You’ve landed an interview, and you’re ready to get your dream job! You know you have all the skills you need to outshine the competition, but you’re anxious about the interview. If you want to stand out and show your employer that they want a diverse team, use interview prep apps to learn great interviewing skills, and impress your future boss. Apps like Pramp and Job Interview Q&A will help you practice for interviews, perfect your answers, and build confidence.

STAYING CONNECTED AT WORK

When it comes to communicating at work, there are a number of apps that can keep you connected with your coworkers. Simple texting apps like Whatsapp can be used for communication. Better yet, encourage your office to switch to Slack so all your communication can be in one place, and easily accessible to everyone who needs it. Asana is a great project management system that has an easy-to-use desktop and app interface. Your workplace can thrive with this online platform, making it easy to access tasks from your desk or mobile device.

DO YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TECHNOLOGY?

If you have a physical disability, give yourself a competitive edge by learning how to use technology to help you search for jobs, land a job, and get the career advancement you’ve always wanted. Invest in a smartphone that can easily run your apps, and make sure your phone is always updated. Then download apps that will help you get hired, or keep up on the job. With the right smartphone and data plan, you can be available even when you’re not at work, and you can easily connect with coworkers and clients no matter where you are.

However, the more you invest in technology, the more you need to think about digital security. This includes everything from protecting your phone from hackers to making sure you have the proper cybersecurity measures (malware protection, virus protection, etc.) installed on your computer to ensure it’s safe and secure.

If you’re in the market for a new job, have an interview scheduled for next week, or want to move ahead in your career, make sure you’re using technology to give yourself a competitive edge. Spend some time researching apps that will help you land a job and be successful at the office, and use technology to overcome your disabilities. Start with the right phone and data plan, then find your favorite apps and get to work!

Warm regards,

Patrick Young, AbleUSA

The Elysian Team

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