Five Ways to Build Strong Foundations and Secure Work with a Disability   Finding a job can seem impossible, but no matter the market, there are ways to increase your odds of getting work, regardless of disability. It may take some research and practice, but you can find employment. Here are some tips and tricks to obtaining the job you’ve been hoping for.   Make an Office   Whether you’re freelancing from home or simply planning out your résumé and preparing for an interview, having a dedicated place to work is crucial. When putting together a design for your office, you may want to paint the walls in your home office a calming color, such as green, blue, or turquoise. You should keep this space away from your bedroom, as you don’t want to associate where you sleep with anxiety. Also, make sure whatever furniture you use accommodates your particular disability, and stay near a window to get plenty of natural light.   Write a Strong Résumé   Your best bet to getting an interview is to have a strong, pertinent résumé. Use a plain, legible font, and choose a format based on chronology, objectives, or function. Whatever you decide, keep it concise, as a wordy or convoluted résumé will often be thrown out. However, don’t use a chronological format if there are gaps in your work history, and instead, focus on achievements and skill sets. Most importantly, read and re-read your résumé for typos and grammatical errors before you send it out. It should be flawless and specific to whatever job you’re seeking. For instance, a sales position is not going to need an employee with a history of tutoring.   Ace the Interview   Dressing professionally is only one facet of the battle of owning an interview. A good candidate is one who is ready and excited for an opportunity with a new company or business. Before heading into the interview, re-read your résumé and prepare to speak of any weak spots. You should also be ready to answer common questions, such as talking about your strengths and weaknesses or how challenges have previously been overcome. Go in knowing why you’ll do well at this company, and remind yourself of past successes. It’s okay to be nervous, and you may do better if you are! Just remember not to be too critical of yourself; this employer is hoping you’ll fit the job as much as you are.   Be Your Own Boss   Should you be of a driven, passionate character, you might consider starting your own business. If there has been an idea burning in the back of your mind for some time, take advantage of the moment and invest in yourself and your dream. Yes, it takes plenty of hard work — including market research, getting feedback from others in your chosen industry, and writing a business plan — but it can be viable. There are even funding options and grants specifically for disabled entrepreneurs from the federal government.   Work Online   Like the idea of working on your own terms but aren’t prepared to start a business venture? Don’t worry, as there are other options for you. Typically, if you can type and have access to the internet, you can work online from home. Having remote employment can be a solution, particularly if your professional experience is limited, you have mobility issues, or you can only commit to a set number of hours a week. You could be a virtual assistant, do web design, translate, write or edit, or tutor. Think of what type of skill set you have and base your applications on this. Freelancing isn’t easy, but it can be an excellent way to earn income.   During this time, keep in mind that you may need to try and try again. You may end up submitting countless résumés, but armed with the right tools, you can achieve success. Don’t give up, and look to new avenues to find steady employment. Image courtesy of Pixabay