When I entered the workforce at age 18, I was, of course, funny-looking, and I had a rather unique gait, but as neither would have any effect on the jobs I was applying for (i.e., I didn’t need any aids or modifications), I didn’t worry too much about it, and thus, didn’t mention my disability on my CV.
However, it quickly became apparent that my appearance may be more of an issue than I had anticipated. Often, I was spoken to by interviewers (who were trying and failing to hide their surprise at my visage), like a non-English speaking child, or questioned as to whether I was the ‘Nina-Marie’ who had submitted the application.
In one interview for a receptionist at a real estate agency, I was told, “you’re probably not quite what we are looking for,” before I had even opened my mouth. Not great for my ego, as it turns out.
So, I enlisted the help of a Disability Employment Service (DES), and eventually I did get my foot in the door. I still had to work hard to prove myself for a long time though. Even with the backing of the DES (or perhaps now also because I had it), the expectation of my abilities, it seemed, were never very high.
I found this infuriating, but what I found the most offensive, was that even after I had (or so I thought) ‘proven my worth,’ there were still those who assumed I was there to fill a quota, or worse, due to the benevolence of whatever company I worked for. Argh!
Recently, and after more than 19 years with the same company, I found myself unemployed again. Although I am now also legally blind, this time around, having over 20 years more experience, along with various skills and qualifications I have picked up along the way, I presumed the job hunt might be less arduous. I was wrong.
Sadly, it seems that despite the growing number of disabled people who now have a voice, thanks to the various social media platforms (have I mentioned I have a blog yet?), and the concept of ‘diversity’ being the new black, prompting the creation of Disability Action and Inclusion Plans (DAIP) within the more enlightened organisations, (or those who want to appear that way), not much appears to have changed.
At least when it comes to disability employment anyway. The introduction of the NDIS also means there are now more DES providers operating, (some more reputable than others), which further muddies the waters.
Here’s the thing though; if you’ve met one disabled person, you’ve met one disabled person. That is, just because your cousin Jo Bloggs is blind and thus, cannot get his commercial pilot’s licence, doesn’t mean that your brother’s wife’s, third cousin, twice removed, Andy, who is autistic can’t either. Are you with me?
I, (and I am willing to go out on a limb here and say, most other disabled people), know my limitations. So, due to my aforementioned ego, I am not likely to apply for something I am unlikely to succeed at. Like say, Miss Universe Australia! Especially when I am being represented by a DES.
Therefore, if you’ve posted a job vacancy and my application pops into your inbox, be not afraid if it mentions disability. A quick Google search will bring up countless studies conducted in Australia and internationally highlighting the many economic benefits associated with having people with a disability in your workforce, not least of which is access to a new way of thinking. Plus, ‘accommodating’ me will cost your company nothing with Job Access grants.
I look super-hot now! Right?
Want to check out a reputable DES provider? Go to matchworks.com.au.
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Nina writes her own blog Inner Musings of a Funny Looking Kid (link to blog). She doesn’t receive any supports from Activ Foundation but has jumped on board with Activ to share her first-hand experiences of living with a disability and educate the public through her witty musings.
Look forward to quarterly catch-ups with Nina through Activ’s socials and website.