When I was in my twenties, I thought I knew what I needed to do to get a job. I needed to network, I needed to have a resume, and I needed to apply for jobs.
As a blind woman who is African American, I learned that even though I did find some interesting opportunities, many of those opportunities weren’t for me. In some instances, I withdrew my candidacy. In many more instances, I was never even called in for an interview.
Focus on Strengths
Today, with years of valuable experience shaping my perspective, I’ve come to appreciate a more nuanced approach to job searching. It starts with a fundamental understanding of oneself—knowing your strengths, skills, and the type of work that aligns with your passions. This newfound self-awareness not only refines the job search process but also serves as a powerful tool to engage with others effectively.
Tips for Determining Your Strengths
- Self-Reflection: Take time to introspect and identify your skills and strengths. Reflect on past experiences, achievements, and feedback from mentors or colleagues.
- Skill Assessments: Explore online tools and skill assessments that can provide insights into your abilities.
- Feedback From Others: Seek input from friends, mentors, or colleagues. Their perspectives may reveal strengths you might overlook.
- Passion Exploration: Consider the activities and projects that genuinely excite you. Aligning your strengths with your passions can lead to fulfilling career paths.
Navigating Obstacles
As a person with a disability there are real biases, prejudices, and obstacles which will be encountered. However, the more you know who you are and what you bring to the work world, the better equipped you are to pursue your professional goals. As Richard Bowles writes in his book, “What Color Is Your Parachute”, knowing who you are helps you to approach the job hunt with knowledge and confidence in what you will bring to an employer. Not as someone begging for a job.
By recognizing and embracing personal strengths, skills, and passions, the job search becomes a targeted and empowering process. Navigating obstacles with confidence, armed with self-awareness, fosters resilience in the face of biases. In the end, it’s not just about finding a job; it’s about finding the right job that aligns with your identity, aspirations, and the unique value you bring to the professional world.
