Eleven Tips to Maximize Your Job Search
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Searching for a job can often feel like the most challenging part of employment. To help streamline this process, here are eleven actionable tips tailored for blind and visually impaired job seekers.
1. Expand Your Knowledge About Employment
Start by familiarizing yourself with employment resources. A vast selection of books on employment topics is available, offering guidance on career exploration, resume writing, and interview preparation. You can consult a librarian or local job center for tailored recommendations.
You don’t need to limit yourself to books specifically about blindness or low vision; instead, prioritize advice that aligns with your career field, geographic location, and skills. A standout resource is What Color Is Your Parachute? by Richard N. Bolles and Katharine Brooks (©2024).
This comprehensive guide covers career exploration and job search strategies. Visit its companion website at jobhuntersbible.com to access tools like interest inventories. While these tools may not be designed specifically for individuals who are blind, they can still provide valuable insights into potential career paths.
2. Connect with Employment Organizations
Several organizations can support your job search:
- Department of Labor or Employment Centers: These offices provide the latest information on local job markets.
- Vocational Rehabilitation Services: Your state’s vocational rehabilitation office may have job leads and connections with employers who have hired individuals with blindness or low vision.
- Educational Institutions: Career centers at trade schools, colleges, or universities often assist both students and alumni. Some also serve the wider community. They can offer resume assistance, industry-specific lectures, and guidance on employment trends.
3. Network: Don’t Go It Alone
Job searching can be time-consuming and frustrating, so enlist the help of your network. Share your job search with family, friends, and acquaintances. You never know who might lead you to your next opportunity.
Use your networking skills to reach out to your professional networks. Take a proactive approach by submitting your resume and cover letter to companies you admire or have connections to—even if they haven’t posted openings. Call to introduce or re-introduce yourself and emphasize your skills. Follow up a week after sending your materials to keep your application fresh in their minds.
4. Attend Job Fairs
Job fairs—whether in-person, virtual, regional, or industry-specific—are excellent for networking and meeting potential employers. At these events, hiring managers can review your resume and may even consider you for positions not yet advertised. Additionally, fellow job seekers might share opportunities that aren’t the right fit for them but could be perfect for you.
5. Build Skills Through Internships, Volunteering, and Courses
While searching for a job, consider internships or volunteer opportunities to enhance your professional network and gain valuable work experience. These roles, often supported by schools or vocational rehabilitation services, allow you to develop skills while demonstrating your abilities to potential employers. You’ll be strengthening your resume and expanding your network. Remember, who you know often is critical in securing your desired job quickly.
While waiting for your dream job, consider improving your communication skills. Take courses or attend workshops to increase your employability and maintain a positive outlook—enthusiasm can make a lasting impression.
6. Be Open to Entry-Level Jobs
If finances are tight, don’t hesitate to accept a position that isn’t your dream job. Entry-level roles can help you gain experience and build connections while you search for a role that aligns with your goals.
Informational interviews—conversations where you ask professionals about their experiences in a career field of interest—are an excellent way to stay connected and informed in your desired industry. These meetings allow you to learn from seasoned experts, uncover industry trends, and foster relationships that may lead to future opportunities.
Whenever possible, seek out interviews with individuals who are blind or have low vision and are working in your field of interest. You can gain valuable insights by listening to pre-recorded Career Conversations or attending live Career Conversations on Zoom, which allow you to engage in an informational interview in a virtual setting with individuals who are blind or low vision and are employed in various career fields.
8. Research Your Industry
Before pursuing further education such as an advanced degree, research its impact on your career goals. Graduate programs can be valuable but are best pursued with a clear understanding of how they align with your aspirations. If you discover later that additional education is necessary, you can always return to school.
9. Stay Organized and Consistent
Your commitment to job searching greatly influences your success. Dedicate time daily to ensuring your resume reflects the specific job you’re applying for, writing tailored cover letters, and applying for jobs. Consistency is key, whether you prefer focusing on all tasks simultaneously or breaking them into smaller steps.
Keep an organized file of your job search activities, including contacts, advice, and potential leads. This keeps you focused and boosts your confidence as you track your progress. Update this file annually once working with:
- Projects you’ve completed
- Awards or recognitions received
- Additional certifications or continuing education achievements
10. Prepare to Navigate Disability Disclosure
Deciding when and how to disclose your blindness or low vision is a personal choice. You may not want to disclose this information in your resume or cover letter unless the position specifically targets individuals with disabilities.
Regardless of when you choose to disclose, prepare a concise and positive statement highlighting your strengths and demonstrating your ability to perform the job. Rehearse your script with trusted colleagues, friends, or vocational counselors to ensure clarity and confidence.
When discussing your disability:
- Focus on how you’ll accomplish tasks.
- Bring assistive technology to interviews or provide materials demonstrating effectively using these tools.
- Highlight your abilities and explain how your skills and tools empower you to succeed.
You can also refer employers to APH CareerConnect® resources to learn more about accommodations for workers who are blind or visually impaired.
11. Explore APH Resources
For more comprehensive guidance, consider enrolling in the APH Job Seekers Toolkit. This resource provides tools and strategies to enhance your job search and career development.