Top Soft Job Skills for Adults with Disabilities

Adapted from: Udservices.org 

Adults with disabilities make up nearly 20% of the American workforce.

Still, they often face more significant challenges in finding and maintaining employment. In most cases, this is because they don’t have the opportunity to develop soft and hard job skills that characterize appealing candidates. 

However, these social- and work-related attributes are essential to securing employment and maintaining a job in the long run.  

Soft or interpersonal skills are core competencies that define how you work. These transferable skills are valuable regardless of your job and helpful in any professional environment. If you’ve already held employment, chances are you’ve developed soft skills. 

Ultimately, soft job skills are just as essential as specific job-related competencies. They’re especially crucial if your job requires you to interact with the public. However, the ability to “read” others and adapt to uncertain situations can be difficult for people with disabilities. 

Below are some of the most valuable soft job skills for adults with disabilities that employers are looking for. 

Attention to Detail 

While the bigger picture is always important, businesses want employees who pay close attention to the details.  

Communication Skills 

Good communication skills help you productively engage with coworkers, superiors, and customers. They also allow you to follow instructions and effectively express your thoughts and feelings to those around you. In short, they’re essential to a positive work environment where everyone feels valued. 

Conflict Management Skills 

Unfortunately, conflict and disagreements can crop up in any working environment. Potential employers are searching for candidates who can navigate and mitigate conflict calmly. 

Problem-Solving Skills 

The ability to solve problems and assess situations from multiple perspectives is another top soft job skill. Problem-solving is key to critical thinking, strategizing, and taking advantage of potential opportunities. 

Professionalism 

Approaching your job positively and professionally impacts how your superiors and coworkers perceive you. Professionalism includes things like showing up for work on time, dressing appropriately, and respecting the people around you. 

Teamwork Skills 

The ability to work as part of a team is crucial to both your success and your company. Effective teamwork also involves understanding the needs of your coworkers and supporting them for the greater good. 

Time Management Skills 

Knowing how to manage your time effectively allows you to prioritize and accomplish your tasks. Effective time management also demonstrates initiative and positions you as a self-starter who doesn’t need to be hand-held. 

Now that you know the top soft job skills for adults with disabilities, you’re ready to pursue employment. As someone with a disability, it’s easy to feel discouraged and disadvantaged during your job search. However, careful self-marketing allows you to turn your disability into a valuable asset.  

Be confident, and remember that your disability does not define you, personally or professionally.