{"id":311,"date":"2024-07-04T15:46:04","date_gmt":"2024-07-04T15:46:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/wp.purpldiscounts.com\/?p=311"},"modified":"2025-10-28T12:33:31","modified_gmt":"2025-10-28T12:33:31","slug":"positive-talk-about-disability-in-the-workplace","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/wp.purpldiscounts.com\/positive-talk-about-disability-in-the-workplace\/","title":{"rendered":"Positive Talk About Disability in the Workplace"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The way we discuss disability in the workplace can significantly impact our chances of impressing potential employers. As disabled candidates, our language choices can either highlight our strengths or reinforce negative stereotypes. Here\u2019s how to frame your disability in a positive light to improve your prospects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Highlight the Benefits of Hiring Disabled Employees<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Show Your Value<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Disabled employees often make exceptional hires. On average, we are just as productive as non-disabled colleagues, sometimes even more so. We generally have fewer sick days, fewer workplace accidents, and longer job tenure. Navigating an inaccessible world equips us with valuable skills such as creative problem-solving, tenacity, negotiation, and innovation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Counteract Negative Stereotypes<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Challenge Misconceptions<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Not all employers recognize the potential of disabled employees and may mistakenly view us as risky or problematic hires. It’s essential to counter these misconceptions by emphasising our strengths and demonstrating how we can contribute positively to their organisation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Avoid Self-Sabotage in Interviews<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Focus on What You Can Do<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sometimes, as disabled people, we are our own worst enemies in failing to challenge negative stereotypes of us. A while back I went to an interview with a brilliant autistic candidate. His first twenty or so sentences either began with \u201cI can\u2019t\u201d or \u201cI need\u201d. Whilst these may have been valid comments, starting an interview by explaining to a potential employer exactly why you shouldn\u2019t get the job is unlikely to result in success! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This candidate had so much to offer the employer, and could have been just as honest telling them what
value he would bring to the company and the role. Starting his sentences with \u201cI can\u201d and \u201cI will\u201d would have been far more positive. Asking for adjustments can come later \u2013 when the employer has already decided you are the best candidate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Reframe Your Disability Positively<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Turn Challenges into Assets<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you choose to disclose your disability, frame it in a way that highlights your strengths rather than limitations. For example:<\/p>\n\n\n\n