There is a misconception among many employers that people with disabilities cannot be productive or effective employees. The truth is those with disabilities can be as qualified as any other candidates. Along with gaining their unique viewpoints and experience, disabled employees can provide many other benefits to a company.
During your hiring process, those with disabilities should be evaluated based on their skills and qualifications. Refusing to hire an individual based on their disability is not only a legal issue; it could be a mistake you regret by robbing your company of the best talent.
Your onboarding process should allow all candidates to be screened fairly. Many people with disabilities are eager to be involved in the workplace and not rely on their assured Income For the Severely Handicapped (AISH) benefits. Let’s take a closer look at some benefits of hiring people with disabilities.
Boost Your Brand
By providing equal opportunities to people with disabilities; your business shows that it cares about the whole community. In most developed countries, disability rights are protected by national laws.
It is no longer enough to grow a business to ensure your reputation or how the public perceives your brand. Companies are expected to collaborate on global issues like population growth, environmental conditions, poverty, disability, and hunger. Hiring disabled staff members will allow your customers to see you as a more socially responsible brand.
Lower Attrition Rates
It takes many adjustments in one’s life to live with a disability. Disabled employees must put a lot of physical and mental effort into making themselves comfortable at work. Once they get accustomed to the office, they are less likely to leave and join another company. You can help disabled employees feel comfortable by providing them with the necessary support. Disability-related needs should be considered when managing your employees.
Tax Benefits
A number of governments around the world offer tax exemptions to employers who hire disabled people. This means you might be able to save a lot of money if disabled people make up a substantial part of your workforce. Additionally, you can deduct the costs if you need to make concessions and adaptations to your office environment. For example, you may need to purchase a handicapped-friendly desk, build a ramp, or reconfigure your office layout to accommodate employees with disabilities.
Broader Hiring Pool
Leaving persons with disabilities out of your talent pool can have significant consequences. People with disabilities are commonly mistaken for not being able to perform at the same level as able-bodied individuals. People who are educated and trained should not be ignored because they have a disability. It’s entirely possible that a disabled candidate may be your best choice.
Cultivates Strong Company Culture
There is a high level of motivation among people with disabilities. To be eligible for a job, they must overcome many challenges. Getting into the professional world is only possible with great motivation. Hiring persons with disabilities can help to create a more positive and engaging company culture.
Before dismissing disabled candidates during your interview process, consider these benefits and how this unique demographic can help improve your company.
