People with disabilities often face greater challenges when looking for a job due to social prejudices and structural barriers within the hiring process. The General Law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and Their Social Inclusion (LISMI) provides a legal framework that protects their rights and promotes their active inclusion in the workplace.
At Axxon, we have created a practical guide to help candidates with disabilities navigate the selection process with greater confidence and effectiveness.
Know your rights
It's important to be well-informed about the laws that protect you. The LISMI and other regulations ensure that people with disabilities are not discriminated against during the recruitment process and can request reasonable adjustments.
Prepare for the interview!
Before attending an interview, research the company to find out if it has any inclusion policies in place. Anticipate common interview questions and consider how you would address your disability while highlighting your strengths.
Writing your CV and cover letter
Whether or not to mention your disability in your CV is a personal choice. Some candidates prefer not to disclose it to avoid potential bias, while others choose to be transparent from the outset.
During the interview
Focus on your skills and experience. If you choose to mention your disability, you could talk about how you have overcome certain challenges in the past, emphasising qualities such as adaptability and resilience.
Your goal is to demonstrate your qualifications, show what you can contribute to the role, and project a professional and enthusiastic attitude.
Requesting accommodations
If you require specific adjustments to participate in the selection process on an equal footing, it is important to communicate this in advance. Examples of reasonable adjustments might include interview locations that are accessible, extra time for assessments, or assistive technology.
Some companies still have negative attitudes towards hiring people with disabilities, often due to misconceptions that do not reflect reality. In fact, diversity enriches teams and fosters a more inclusive, human-centred work environment. Openly and positively addressing disability can create opportunities and open doors for both individuals and organisations.
Remember: being aware of your rights, preparing in advance, and setting clear goals are key to successfully navigating the job selection process.
