Equal Opportunities – The Benefits of Hiring Staff with Disabilities

Workplace diversity is having a higher importance placed on it as awareness about the importance and benefits of it grow. This shift is extremely encouraging, in particular for people in New Zealand who have a disability.
Adults with disabilities have struggled against employment inequality, but it is high time for employers to realise the benefits and embrace these valuable members of our society.
According to Statistics New Zealand, almost two-thirds of disabled adults under 65 are employed, and most of the remainder would like to have a job.
The survey found that 39 percent of disabled people aged 15 to 64 weren’t working in paid jobs in 2013. While 74 percent of those who weren’t employed said they would like to work if a job was available. That is a sizeable pool of potential employees who are capable and eager to work, which is worthwhile considering.
Unfortunately the report shows that many disabled people face difficulties in looking for jobs and tend to fare worse and are less likely to be successful when applying for a job than their non-disabled counterparts. Interestingly, relatively few disabled workers need special modifications or equipment in their workplace.
Those who are employed work in a wide range of occupations and industries throughout the country. More than a third work in either managerial or professional jobs, while many work in physically demanding occupations such as labouring or trade jobs.
Hiring a capable or qualified person with a disability brings greater benefits beyond just filling an open job, there’s a solid business case too. The benefits of hiring people with disabilities are:
Long term commitment
Those with a disability are less likely to seek new employment as regularly as their job hunting colleagues. In general they are more grateful for their position and are likely to be committed long term to their employer.
Exceptional abilities 
Rather than focusing on the disability, look beyond that and see the ability. This exceptional group of people may be limited in some areas, but they often excel with highly developed skills in others.
They’re reliable 
In general this group take less sick days than the general population. They are also known to be punctual, arriving for work and returning from breaks on time.
Drive to succeed 
These employees are often dedicated to their work and have a strong desire to improve, exceed the performance of their peers and take on more responsibility. This in turn increases their company’s profitability.
Resourceful 
People with disabilities can face numerous challenges in daily life. This means they are often great problem solvers and are skilled at thinking creatively.
Greater camaraderie 
They often inspire their colleagues and have a positive effect on the entire workforce.
Continual improvement 
Their performance at work steadily improves over time. Even workers with more profound disabilities can make great improvements.
Happy to work 
Employees with a disability are found to be extremely satisfied with their jobs. They love their work and will go the extra mile for the company.
 
By Laura Baker