Work is a large part of our culture in the U.S. For many, it’s part of our identity and sense of purpose. If you’ve been without a job, you may be feeling the weight of not working – feeling a loss of connection, or purpose, worrying about finances, and having no structure to your day, to name a few. We primarily think of the financial impact of working. But the benefits go beyond the income that comes from a job. Here are just a few of the benefits of work:
- Financial independence
- Higher self-esteem and confidence
- Improved health and wellbeing
- Making an impact
- Skill development
- Personal fulfillment
I’m sure you can add your own reasons for wanting to work! Based on what we see here at ERI, we can assure you that people with disabilities are as able and eager to work as anyone else when given an opportunity and the right supports. In fact, people with disabilities frequently outperform other employees in terms of efficiency, productivity, accuracy, commitment, loyalty, and satisfaction. Source: Workforce Solutions at TACQE.com
How to Find a Job
The first step in finding a job is identifying what your interests and skills are. If you’re not sure, take a few moments to read link: Find the Job that Fits YOU: Identify Your Job Interests and Skills. It gives useful resources to help you learn what you’re interested in and what you have to offer an employer.
Once you have an idea of the kind of job you want, the next step is to look for job openings. Here are some resources I’ve used to help other people find jobs that match their interests, skills, and career goals.
Job Search Engines
These days there are many websites that post jobs. These websites are called job aggregators because they collect job postings from multiple sources, such as company websites, other job boards, and staffing agencies, into one platform. Examples of job search engines are:
Job Boards
Websites for jobs with the state of Wisconsin, the federal government, and nonprofit organizations in Wisconsin are often referred to as job boards. If you’re interested in a job with a specific employer in Wisconsin, check these out:
- State of Wisconsin - Wisc.Jobs
- Federal Government - USAJobs.gov
- Non-Profit Organizations in Wisconsin - Jobs That Help
- Wisconsin Counties - Wisconsin County Directory
Note: Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 prohibits federal contractors and subcontractors from discriminating in employment against individuals with disabilities and requires employers to take affirmative action to recruit, hire, promote, and retain these individuals.
CareerOneStop Job Finder
CareerOneStop is a comprehensive career, education, and job search resource sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor. Job postings on CareerOneStop are updated daily by the National Labor Exchange and ZipRecruiter:
Employer Job Postings
Not all employers pay to post their job openings. If there is a specific employer you’re interested in, regularly visit the company’s career page for employment opportunities.
You can look up businesses in your city or town’s Chamber of Commerce and go to the business website to find job postings.
Hidden Job Markets
Sometimes there are "hidden job markets" where job opportunities aren't posted on job boards. These can include situations where:
- a company needs help but hasn't created a job yet
- a position is open but hasn't been advertised
- an opening is coming up because someone is leaving
For example, I initially interviewed for a different job at ERI, but during the interview the Executive Director realized I could fill a need in their Ticket to Work program. Eleven years later, I’m still working here!
Don’t be afraid to share your skills and experience with others – it can lead to unexpected opportunities!
Get Support for Your Job Search
I hope this information is helpful to you in your job search. Feel free to contact ERI to talk about your career goals and where you might find available job opportunities.
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