Opinion: How San Diego Businesses can support employees with disabilities
Photo courtesy of Defense Contract Audit Agency Finding a job is hard enough For people with intellectual or developmental disabilities that challenge is compounded by transportation fences differences in communication styles or a lack of advocacy navigating the interview process These obstacles keep far too plenty of qualified candidates out of the workforce The facts tells the story According to San Diego County s equity summary just over one-quarter of people with disabilities participate in the labor force compared to nearly three-quarters of those without disabilities The gap isn t consistently about ability or motivation Access and opportunity are factors here Majority people want to work They want purpose connection to their district and the chance to contribute Emerging down stereotypes and removing hindrances is the first step toward unlocking that expected This October during National Disability Employment Awareness Month San Diego business leaders have a unique opportunity to lead the way By raising awareness creating inclusive practices and championing equity in hiring we can help ensure every person has the chance to bring their skills to the table and strengthen our society in the process San Diego s Path to an inclusive economic activity In its Inclusive Advance Progress Overview the San Diego Regional EDC evaluated how the region is tracking toward its Inclusive Improvement Framework goals While San Diego is making progress substantial accessibility gaps remain Small businesses responsible for nearly of local employment are central to this effort Yet multiple continue to struggle with retention talent shortages and the rising costs of housing transportation and living expenses that strain household affordability Despite these challenges the region is closing in on its milestone with new quality jobs already added For context a quality job is defined as a role at a business with fewer than employees that pays at least per hour and provides fitness insurance From workshops to internships and apprenticeship programs San Diego businesses have multiple pathways to grow their workforce while fostering inclusion Research consistently shows that businesses embracing diversity and inclusion achieve stronger results than their competitors According to a account from Accenture organizations that prioritize disability inclusion account higher profit margins greater revenue and twice the net income compared with companies that do not focus on inclusive practices Attempts that turn intentions into impact By embracing the unique strengths and requirements of each individual San Diego businesses can unlock untapped probable lead by example and make a meaningful impact on both the area and their bottom line Here are chosen actionable avenues you can make processes more inclusive Job Descriptions Review job postings and strip out jargon or vague requirements that discourage applicants Be intentional about separating true must-haves from skills that can be trained on the job Application Audit What does your company s job application look like Can you confront it with just a keyboard Does it work with a screen reader If not your company is unintentionally closing the door on qualified talent Interview Process Think about the last interview you hosted Did you offer flexibility virtual options extra time or the ability to bring a endorsement person Comfort builds confidence Onboarding Development Talk openly about how your company introduces new employees to the unit Providing materials in multiple formats like captioned videos large-print PDFs or interactive guides Pairing hires with trained mentors sends the message that endorsement is built into the practices not an afterthought San Diego has an opportunity to lead by example Businesses can take actions to ensure that the region not only reaches its goals but builds a more resilient competitive and thriving workforce for the future Brian Zotti is the CEO of Options For All a California-based nonprofit creating and supporting opportunities for adults with disabilities
