Information to help you get started in the labour market

Starting you career with a functional impairment or support need can be challenging. Whether you have a physical limitation, are neurodivergent, or have a mental health vulnerability: you are not alone. Find below an overview of useful information that can help you further.

Follow a workshop

Each academic year, Student Career Services hosts a workshop series ‘Breaking Barriers’ for students and recent graduates who may experience additional barriers when entering the labour market, for example due to a disability, chronic condition or neurodivergence.

During the workshop, you will:

• Meet other students with similar experiences
• Learn about relevant laws and regulations
• Gain insigths into inclusive recruitment and hiring practices
• Discover your strengths and talents
• Build self-confidence in navigating the labour market
• Learn how to present yourself and your qualities to employers

Go to events calendar

Talk with a career coach

Meet one-on-one with a career coach and discuss questions or doubts in a personal setting.

Plan a coaching session

Find inclusive employers

Finding an employer where you feel supported and able to thrive may take some research. Some tips to help you explore:

• Discover inclusive employer networks: Organisations such as De Normaalste Zaak and SWOM work with employers committed to creating a more inclusive labour market. Their partner networks can be a useful starting point for discovering potential employers.
• Use specialised job platforms: Platforms such as Colourful jobs can help you find vacancies from employers that actively focus on diversity and inclusion.
• Check employer websites and vacancies: Look for information about diversity and inclusion, accessibility, workplace adjustments, flexible working and employee networks.
• Use LinkedIn and your network: Search for employees or alumni working at organisations you are interested in and learn from their experiences.
• Ask questions during the application process: An interview is also your opportunity to find out whether an employer suits you. Ask about workplace culture, flexibility, support or possible adjustments.

Other interesting links & resources

• Pernu: Recruitment agency for job seekers with a distance to the labour market.
• Emma at Work: Supports (early-career) talent with a chronic physical condition in finding meaningful and suitable work. 
• Ctalents: Community for people with audio and visual impairment involved in job coaching and talent matching with employers.