Overview
Before approaching an employer about a job opportunity, focus on building a relationship first. Taking the time to connect early lays the foundation for trust and enables more open, productive conversations later.
The type of employer relationships – and how they are developed - will vary depending on the size and structure of the business. Engagement strategies will also differ depending on the purpose: whether it is general employer engagement (i.e. prospecting broadly) or supporting a specific candidate in their job search.
For example, larger companies may require engagement across multiple departments or levels, with recruitment processes that take time to navigate, while smaller businesses often have more streamlined hiring practices that involve a single decision-maker.
Regardless of business size, connections with employers need to focus on people in key roles, including:
- A champion or advocate for employing people with disability within the business, often a senior leader.
- Staff who understand employment systems, such as human resources personnel
- Financial personnel who oversee budgets
- Supervisors or managers who will directly supervise and support the new employee.
Each of these people has a role in decision-making or implementation. It is important that there is support and understanding at all levels, and the benefits of inclusive employment must be clear to everyone involved.1
Key strategies for success
It is important to prepare for employer conversations. Below are some tips for both employment service providers and for jobseekers with disability:
For employment service providers:
- Research your local labour market
- Attend local business or industry events
- Join chambers of commerce or employer networks
- Ask existing employer partners or colleagues for referrals
- Use social media strategically – follow companies of interest on platforms like LinkedIn, engage with their posts, and reach out through direct messages where appropriate. Social media is also a valuable tool for raising awareness about inclusive employment and sharing examples of good practice, including showcasing the work of your service.
For jobseekers:
- Research companies you’re interested in – check websites, news, and vacancies
- Use social media strategically – follow companies of interest on platforms like LinkedIn, engage with their posts, and reach out through direct messages where appropriate
- Ask friends, family and professional contacts for job leads and introductions
- Look for opportunities in your community, such as noticeboards, local papers, or business shopfronts
- Many organisations have a ‘Jobs’ or ‘Work with us’ pages on their website, if you already know where you want to work
- Meet with a disability employment service to discuss how they can assist you in reaching your goals.2