Disability culture: how can you tell what it’s really like to work in companies where you’re interviewing? After all, you don’t want to start work and then find out that you feel like you’ll never fit in. But how do you know if a company will accept you for who you are, if they’ll be happy or begrudging about accommodating your needs, if fellow workers will shun or welcome you?

Start your disability employment search by going to the corporation’s Web page.
•    Are there photos of employees or customers with disabilities?
•    Does it state the company is an EEO employer?
•    Is there a reference to programs that support employees with disabilities?
•    Is there a statement, such as “wheelchair accessible,” that indicates buildings are disability-friendly?
•    Do any of the corporate higher-ups have a disability?
•    Does the company make an effort to attract people with disabilities?

During the interview, ask questions that might expose employment discrimination:
•    Do you already employ people with disabilities?
•    What programs do you offer to support people with disabilities?
•    What sort of assistive devices are used by your employees?
•    Do you have special policies on disabled employees?
•    Is scheduling flexibility an option?
•    Are there programs for job learning in order to be promoted within the company?

Ask to look at the area where you would be working. Take a restroom break as well, especially if you need any special facilities.
•    Do you see anyone working with assistive technology?
•    Do the employees seem welcoming?
•    Is there anyone in a wheelchair?
•    Does the bathroom have grab bars and plenty of room to maneuver around?
•    Is the entire building accessible with ramps, elevators and automatic door openers?

Sometimes, intuition is your best guide, especially if it’s a small company without the resources to provide disability employment services.
•    Does it feel like there is a focus on employee expertise and good customer service?
•    Does the atmosphere in the work environment reflect respect for individuals?
•    How do you feel around the person who will be your supervisor?

The following companies have strong track records of inclusion. Look for more suggestions at your local and regional disability and rehabilitation organizations.
•    Aetna
•    Cisco Systems
•    Home Depot
•    IBM
•    Kaiser Permanente
•    Marriott
•    Merrill Lynch
•    Proctor & Gamble
•    Sodexo
•    Starwood Hotels and Resorts

Jumpstart your disability employment search here.

See Related Disability Employment Articles
How to get hired by the government and increase your income.
SSDI and SSI employment support while you work.
Supported employment can help people with disabilities remain on the job.