Breaking Into Business: Tips for Young Adults With Disabilities

By: Linda Chase

Guest contribtuion

Photo via Unsplash

For young adults with disabilities, deciding on a career track can be difficult. But today, the rising popularity of remote work is making it easier to establish a career in business. Plus, resources like Sports As A Job illustrate how a relevant business degree can even lead to opportunities in the sports industry! If you’re wondering how to build a career in business, these tips will help you along your journey.

Setting Career Goals

It’s important to think about your long-term career goals before taking your next steps. Identify your ideal job and which credentials you would need for that particular career path. For instance, if you’d like to run your own consulting business one day, you may want to earn an online degree in information technology. You’ll get to take classes on data analytics, cybersecurity, and more. 

Managing a consulting business will give you the ability to set your own schedule and choose your clients — this flexibility can make it a smart career choice for people with disabilities who have a passion for entrepreneurship. You may also want to consider pursuing a lucrative, widely applicable degree, such as a bachelor’s in marketing or human resources. Certain degrees that provide a high return on investment can also help you break into unexpected fields, such as the sports industry. The skills you learn while earning your degree in marketing and human resources can help you land jobs working with sports teams, gyms, athletic publications, fitness companies, and more. There are plenty of exciting opportunities out there, so don’t overlook this dynamic field!

Going to College

Once you’ve decided which subject to study, it’s time to figure out which college program is right for you! Some young adults with disabilities will find that enrolling in an online program is easier than attending classes on a brick-and-mortar campus. Don’t hesitate to talk to your professors about any accommodations you need. You may also want to seek out scholarships or financial aid programs for students with disabilities. 

Securing an Internship

While you’re working towards your degree, you can seek out an internship that will help you expand your resume and learn new skills hands-on. Take the time to research companies that demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. Investopedia recommends displaying a willingness to be adaptable in your role. As an intern, your employer might have you complete a wide variety of tasks, and volunteering for more responsibilities will reflect well on you! Don’t be afraid to offer a helping hand.

Landing Your First Job

You’ve finished your degree, and you have an internship under your belt. Now it’s time to start searching for your first job. Before applying for a job with a particular company, see if you can find workplace reviews from employees with disabilities, and find out what kind of support they can provide. You can also prioritize looking for remote positions. 

As you send out applications and cover letters, don’t get too discouraged by rejections — it can take a while to find the right fit. When you do land an interview, Live Career recommends rehearsing your answers with a friend in advance. Get ready to explain your experience in the business world, your interest in the company, and how you would be an asset as an employee.

Young adults with disabilities may deal with challenges in the workplace, but your professional goals are not out of reach. With the right degree, you can go far. A career in business will let your talents shine!

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