Using Technology to Job Hunt with a Disability
We're truly in a golden age of technology, with more ways to utilize it in our everyday lives than ever before. In addition to connecting us to loved ones at all times, technology is here to simply make our personal and professional lives easier. One of the biggest areas that technology has been making a difference is for people with disabilities. From being hard of hearing to the visually impaired, technology is here to help. Searching for a new job can be a stressful task, so here are some of our favorite ways technology can help with job searching.
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Before You Get Started
In the age of COVID-19, looking for a job may seem a little different. And while you may feel overwhelmed by the idea, there are many online resources that can help point you in the right direction. If you intend to kick start your own business, for instance, Zen Business has a helpful list of resources that can provide you with all the information you need to move forward with your idea. These resources include everything from getting proper funding to making a smart plan so you know precisely what you need to accomplish.
Screen Readers for the Visually Impaired
For people with visual disabilities, technology is a huge blessing. Not only can you download apps and utilize your phone's settings to see and read things on your smartphone, but you can also download programs to your computer that do the same thing. Every touch on your keyboard is matched with a spoken confirmation to give you the ability to use a computer as efficiently as possible. You can also download magnification programs if you just need text to be a little bit bigger. These programs are great for sending out resumes and job applications online when you aren't able to do so in person.
Speech-to-Text for the Hearing Impaired
The speech-to-text feature on phones is pretty common these days, but there are also programs that allow you to read what people are speaking around you in real-time. Ava is a program you can install on your smartphone or tablet that interprets a conversation in your vicinity and translates it into live subtitles on your device. You can read along with what people are saying, giving you the freedom to converse with those who don't know sign language. It's also an excellent option for video chat and phone interviews.
Test Out Tech Ahead of Time
Knowing your skills will help quell any self-doubts you may have. So, test out any new technology you download and install before you head in for an interview. That way, you can be sure to instill confidence in your future employers and leave knowing you'll do a job well done.
Make Sure your Tech Is Up to the Task
If you're considering downloading apps to your phone to help out with your job search, make sure that your phone is up to snuff and can handle the work you need it to do. It may be time for an upgrade if you can't get new apps to work well. If you're in need of a new phone, the iPhone 11 is a great option. It has a triple camera, faster processing power, and longer battery life. If you prefer Android models, the new Google Pixel 4 XL is another fantastic choice. Its large screen is easy to read and its camera is one of the best on the market.
Paying for a new phone can often seem a little overwhelming, especially if you easily suffer from “sticker shock.” Fortunately, you can find great offers on the iPhone 11, Google Pixel 4 XL, and Samsung Galaxy S10, and some service providers will allow you to trade in an older device for cash toward the purchase of a newer model. This way, you can fit this new smartphone into your budget without breaking a sweat in the process.
With all of the different types of technology available today, there are a multitude of options for how to begin and carry out a job search. For those with disabilities, the number of apps out there aimed at helping them achieve success is a definite boon. Utilize these tips to find a job and rock your next interview — you'll be on your path to your new career in no time!