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Career Services at the University of Zurich

Starting a Career with a Disability

Disabilities have many faces. 1.7 million people between the ages of 15 and 65 live with disabilities in Switzerland (Eurostat 2023). We often think of people who use wheelchairs. The fact is, a large proportion of disabilities are invisible. Chronic illnesses (such as diabetes, chronic inflammatory diseases), mental illnesses, and autism also fall into this category. The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities defines a disability as a situation where people are prevented from fully participating in society. Obstacles can include a lack of ramps, but also illegible writing or a noisy work environment.

People with disabilities are increasingly represented in the labor market, even if it is not always apparent that someone has a disability. Companies are only just beginning to recognize this significant potential of skilled workers. Talented individuals with disabilities still encounter numerous hurdles and prejudices in the job market. It is important to be aware of these in order to overcome them.

Starting a Career and Applying for Jobs with a Disability: Tips for Your Journey

Entering the professional world is a big step and can be fraught with uncertainty. For students, doctoral candidates, postdocs, and recent graduates with disabilities or chronic illnesses, additional questions often arise: How do I address the topic of disability in the application process? How can I present myself confidently?

1. Focus on Your Strengths and Abilities

Your personal skills and experience are paramount – not your diagnosis. Before applying, consider what you are particularly good at and what successes you have already achieved. These questions will help you prepare:

  • What specific achievements from my studies, internships, or part-time jobs can I name?
  • What skills do I possess that truly matter?
  • How have I already overcome challenges?

Experiences and concrete examples are especially important in job interviews. If you would like to delve deeper into your profile, review the information on self-assessment.

2. You decide if and when to talk about your disability

It's your decision whether and when you want to mention your disability or chronic illness during the application process. You are not obligated to do so. Disclosing invisible disabilities is usually a matter of trust. Your decision may depend on whether you feel comfortable during the conversation and whether the company seems inclusive.

At the same time, it can be helpful to mention certain needs if they are relevant to the job or process, for example:

  • accessible workplace
  • assistance or technical aids
  • flexible working hours or break arrangements

When you do talk about it, an objective and solution-oriented approach is helpful. The focus should be: What do you need to be able to work effectively?

Employers rarely have knowledge about different types of disabilities and may have unrealistic expectations. You are the expert on your own needs. Explain objectively what you feel you can do and what solutions have helped you in the past.

3. Get support and take advantage of counseling services

You don't have to do everything alone. UZH Career Services, the Disability Support Office at UZH, and specialized counseling centers outside the university can help you, for example, with:

  • Explaining gaps in your CV
  • Preparing for interviews and assessment formats
  • Clarifying how to effectively address your needs and circumstances

Often, simply being well-prepared noticeably boosts your confidence. Especially if you haven't discussed your disability frequently, you should first clarify your requirements.

4. Specifically search for companies that value inclusion

On portals like enableme.myAbility.jobs, companies explicitly seek applicants with disabilities – mentioning your disability in your cover letter can even be an advantage.

Some other signs that a company takes inclusion seriously:

  • The careers page has a section for Diversity & Inclusion or Accessibility.
  • Job postings include a paragraph that directly invites people with disabilities to apply.
  • The company has won awards for diversity or is visibly committed to inclusion.

Take advantage of these companies' offerings for people with disabilities, such as a meeting with the person responsible for inclusion issues or alternative interview arrangements. Equal opportunity means that disadvantages in the process are compensated for: this isn't an extra, it's your right!

5. Build a professional network

Personal contacts help you learn more about career opportunities, such as internships, and take advantage of them more quickly. Mentoring or career programs, career fairs, and networking events with employers are helpful, but not always accessible to everyone. Feel free to contact experienced professionals from your degree program directly (e.g., via LinkedIn) and learn in a personal conversation what to consider when applying for jobs (learn more about the so-called informal interview here). Also, explore opportunities specifically for people with disabilities. There, you can gain confidence without having to worry about obstacles.

Entering the workforce requires good preparation. Find out where your strengths lie and what your requirements are for your future workplace. Consider whether you want to disclose your disability and seek support in making this decision and preparing. Specifically look for inclusive employers who value diversity as an asset. You don't have to do everything alone: ​​work on building your professional network.

This article was written by myAbility and EnableMe. They run the job portal myAbility.jobs, which is aimed at people with disabilities. At Enableme.ch you'll find a wealth of information about living with disabilities, as well as resources to help you manage your daily life independently.