Reframe Disability as a Talent Differentiator
Turn your disability into your differentiator. That’s the advice to job-seekers from long-time recruiter Sharon Singh, a Human Resources business partner with Canada’s largest bank, RBC. She proactively seeks out and develops talent with disabilities.
“I know the hesitations, myths and misunderstandings. But I also know the long-term value of hiring a person with a disability and what they can offer ,” says Sharon. “Job-seekers need to highlight their unique strengths and the way they can do things differently with equal or greater success than their non-disabled peers.”
She suggests emphasizing skills such as the attention to detail, meticulous planning and preparation, superior physical and virtual navigation skills that are imperative for many people with disabilities. She also recommends highlighting innovation and creativity.
Sharon also sees the current isolation and work-from-home situation as an opportunity for employers to offer more flexible work options.
“Remote work is no longer viewed as an accommodation or perk. This global pandemic has busted the myth that work can only be done in the office. That opens more doors on how a job could be done and who can do those jobs.”
Listen to our full conversation on #MoreTalentUntapped on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your podcasts.
