Starting a business career is a great option for young adults with disabilities. With the right mindset and a strong work ethic, there are countless opportunities for growth and success.
In this guest blog, written by Sara Bell from EducatorLabs, she explores the various reasons why starting a business career can be an excellent option, and how to navigate the industry with a disability. Whether you have a visible or invisible disability, you possess the same potential for success as any other young professional out there. Let’s dive in and explore why this path might very well be the perfect fit for you.
Forge your own opportunities
One of the most significant advantages of starting a business career is the ability to forge your opportunities. Once you establish yourself as an entrepreneur or start-up owner, you are no longer bound by the limitations of a standard nine-to-five job. You have complete control over your career and can choose your path.
As someone with a disability, you may face unique challenges in the workplace. Fortunately, in business, you can choose to tailor your work environment to your specific needs. Whether that means setting up a remote office or accommodating your workspace, you have the flexibility to build a work environment that meets your needs and enhances your productivity.
You also need to be proactive when it comes to marketing. It’s a good idea to utilise a blend of traditional and digital marketing approaches. Be adaptable in case you run into problems, as well. For instance, if you’re marketing via social media and you run into problems with the file orientation, it’s up to you to find the solution. Luckily, there are free tools you can use if you need to rotate a PDF.
Government grants
As a young adult with a disability, you may be eligible for government grants to start your own business. These grants provide access to resources and capital that can be used to grow your brand and develop your product or service.
Organisations such as the Small Business Administration (SBA) and the Department of Labor offer grants and support for people with disabilities looking to start a business career. By taking advantage of these resources, you can kickstart your career and set yourself up for success.
Why networking is a must
Networking is a must for anyone looking to grow professionally or personally. Building strong relationships with people in your industry or community can lead to new opportunities, valuable connections and long-lasting friendships.
While online networking and social media platforms can be effective, in-person events are still the best way to connect with people on a deeper level. To prioritise in-person networking events, make a list of the most important ones to attend and schedule them in your calendar. Use these events as a way to meet new people and strengthen existing relationships.
Ability to personalise products and services
One of the most significant advantages of starting a business is the ability to personalise products and services. As someone with a disability, you possess a unique insight into the specific needs of others with disabilities. You can use this knowledge to create personalised and specialised products or services that cater to this market. Offering a product or service that addresses pain points unique to your community can allow you to make a difference while creating a successful business.
Create job opportunities for others
Finally, starting a business career enables you to create job opportunities for others, including those with disabilities. By creating diverse and inclusive work environments, you can empower others to succeed and contribute to the growth of your business. As a young adult with a disability, you have experienced firsthand the challenges presented by ableism and inaccessibility. You are in a unique position to challenge this and create a more inclusive workplace, setting others up for success and encouraging diversity within your industry.
Starting a career in business as a young adult with a disability is a unique and rewarding path. By forging your opportunities, leveraging government grants, networking effectively, and creating job opportunities for others, you can position yourself for success while also making a difference in the world. It’s time to embrace your entrepreneurial spirit and take the first steps toward building a career that suits your needs and ambitions.
Check out Sara Bell’s other guest blog 6 tips to simplify the moving house process when you have an autistic child.
If you would like me to be a guest blogger and/or you would like to feature as a guest blogger on my blog, please contact me.
Also, check out other Guest Blogs on Rock For Disability.
