As the diplomas are received and the tassels turn, the job hunt begins for recent college graduates, and for those with a disability, it means understanding your rights in the workplace and requesting reasonable accommodations to begin your new journey.

In this article by Understood, a nonprofit that assists in helping companies develop disability inclusion plans, they discuss why it matters to include the disabled population in the workplace and how to approach the subject.

As a disabled person, the career search has been difficult to navigate and understand. The most difficult questions I have had to ask myself are, “Should I disclose my disability?” or “Will I not be hired if I do?”. As a goal for my career, I want to help those facing any fears of workplace discrimination.

Discrimination comes in many forms against many people and although I am a firm believer in the Equal Employment Opportunities Act (EEO) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) that fights against hiring/workplace discrimination, it is that looming concept that I may lose an opportunity because of my disability that becomes a grim prospect.

Although it is mainly internalized ableism, the jobs that list “ability to stand for long periods” or “lift to 25 pounds” instantly make me shy away from an opportunity that I would be interested in otherwise. Even if I am confident with my past skills and could be the “right fit”, I fear that I won’t “fit in” to the criteria on the vaguely outlined job ad.

For anyone who has a disability, my advice is to answer how you wish and do not let an opportunity pass. I have concluded that if a company or organization is EEO/ADA required, they can provide reasonable accommodations. The following are my tips on approaching the subject:

• Reasonable accommodations are there for a reason; for your employer to help you get the job done by providing you a way to let them know what you need. As a rule, usually, employers with 15 employees or more must comply. Most times, HR will still try to assist regardless of the number of employees.
• If you want, you can contact HR for interview accommodations. I have seen some HR software platforms that provide an area for you to disclose your disability. Again, both up to the individual.
• I have a unique and different perspective. My disability has allowed me to increase my creative ideas and problem-solving skills. Search for companies that have a great culture surrounding disability and those that actively work to crush stereotyping.

I remind myself that if I get the job, it is because of my experience and my skills and has little to do with my disability! Be confident in your search and show how you are going to be a great addition.