Accessibility is a serious responsibility for all businesses. This isn&rsquo;t simply a legislative requirement, though. There are various commercial imperatives for company leaders to adopt consistent, meaningful, and even innovative measures to support workers with disabilities and additional needs. Prioritizing accessibility can positively impact recruiting and retaining new talent.&nbsp;Your company policies can send a message to those living with disabilities about how effectively they&rsquo;ll be supported.&nbsp;However, it&rsquo;s vital to note that&nbsp;workers and candidates who may not appear to be navigating visible disabilities will also pay attention to how genuine and extensive your efforts are.
So, let&rsquo;s take a moment to explore how accessibility relates to recruitment and retention.
<h2>It Promotes an Inclusive Culture</h2>
One of the most important reasons accessibility can assist with recruiting and retaining talent is because it promotes an inclusive culture. The current workforce tends to prioritize meaningful inclusivity, among other elements of diversity.&nbsp;<a uw-rm-external-link-id="https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/people-and-organizational-performance/our-insights/understanding-organizational-barriers-to-a-more-inclusive-workplace$onesurveyfoundthat39%ofrespondents" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" aria-label="One survey found that 39% of respondents - open in a new tab" rel="noopener" target="_blank" href="https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/people-and-organizational-performance/our-insights/understanding-organizational-barriers-to-a-more-inclusive-workplace">One survey found that 39% of respondents</a> reported resigning due to a perceived lack of inclusion within the company. The more inclusive and accessible your culture is, the greater the sense of belonging, positivity, and engagement can be.
True inclusivity is one of the key components of making an accessible workplace. This involves taking steps that ensure all workers feel supported at work. Provide equal development opportunities regardless of background and include diversity and inclusion as a core part of basic training. It&rsquo;s also vital that the physical environment meets Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance standards, which require that all spaces are easily navigable and practical for all contributors.
To maximize impact on recruitment and retention, your inclusive culture must be a core component of the hiring process and ongoing company development. During interviews, candidates' opinions and experiences of working in an inclusive workplace are worth discussing.<a href="https://askjan.org/articles/Incorporate-Reasonable-Accommodation-Practices-into-your-Onboarding-Process.cfm" rel="follow"> Ensure accommodations are&nbsp;available during onboarding</a> and the company&rsquo;s cultural standards are outlined in workers&rsquo; documentation. Importantly,&nbsp;employees should be involved in leading, cultivating, and influencing efforts throughout the business. This helps accessibility stay visible and keeps employees meaningfully engaged.
<h2>It Bolsters Workplace Safety</h2>
Safety in the workplace is a key responsibility for all business owners. After all, there&rsquo;s a clear duty of care to ensure you&rsquo;re not subjecting employees to conditions that negatively impact their wellness. In addition, maintaining a safe environment can impact recruitment and retention. After all, workers who feel at unnecessary risk are unlikely to be comfortable, happy, or engaged in their roles. Not to mention that a reputation for repeated accidents can disrupt your ability to attract candidates. Accessibility can play a role in ensuring your business is a safe and supportive space.
On the most basic level, accessible workplace layouts and features tend to align with high safety standards that support everyone, not just those living with disabilities.&nbsp;For instance, maintaining clear throughways in offices, warehouses, and production floors enables those who use mobility aids to navigate these areas. But this also presents fewer trip hazards for all workers. Having sufficient lighting not only helps those with vision impairments but also assists all employees in avoiding obstacles and reducing eye strain.
Nevertheless, it&rsquo;s important to understand that it&rsquo;s not just the physical components of accessibility that make a difference here. For instance, stress can negatively impact workplace safety. If workers feel under pressure, this may lead to dangerous errors, distractions that result in carelessness, and poor safety communication.&nbsp;It&rsquo;s important to adopt accessibility measures that support mental wellness.&nbsp;This may include flexible workplace schedules, stress management training, and providing access to mental health resources.
<h2>It Improves Employer Branding</h2>
Employer branding&nbsp;is increasingly important in the contemporary employment landscape. Particularly since the Great Resignation, workers are more discerning about who they&rsquo;re willing to work for. Good employer branding is a tool that promotes how positive an influence the business is both to potential candidates and current workers.&nbsp;Building a brand that demonstrates how accessible your business is can contribute to its strength.
Ensure that content is related to your accessibility efforts on your career pages and general website. This can include behind-the-scenes videos of your measures alongside blog posts on how inclusion fits into company culture. It&rsquo;s also important to ensure that this content and job applications can be adapted for easier use for those living with disabilities, vision impairments, or neurodivergent traits.
Another key component of solid employer branding is authenticity. While content made by your business can be impactful, these materials may still be treated with a little cynicism or hesitation. Therefore, it&rsquo;s wise to&nbsp;encourage employees to create content related to their experiences with the company&rsquo;s commitment to accessibility, inclusion, and diversity. Videos, blogs, podcasts, and even social media posts are impactful because they can be treated as social proof.
<h2>Conclusion</h2>
Prioritizing accessibility can impact your recruitment and retention in a range of ways. Firstly,&nbsp;your efforts promote an inclusive culture, which can prompt greater engagement among existing workers and candidates. High accessibility standards affect workplace safety, influencing worker satisfaction and longevity. You may find, too, that&nbsp;featuring your accessibility standards on company and employee-generated content can improve your brand.
Remember, though, that your first responsibility for accessibility should be ethical.&nbsp;Your efforts must be led by a genuine commitment to supporting and welcoming all workers and candidates. When this is at the forefront of your company&rsquo;s considerations, there are opportunities for everyone involved to thrive.
Content Contributor: Ainsley Lawrence is a freelance writer from the Pacific Northwest. She is interested in better living through technology and education. She loves traveling to beautiful places and is frequently lost in a good book.
<img iscopyblocked="false" alt="Ainsley Lawrence" src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/r6aM0g7QLO9diMekNNwT" width="237" height="237">

Accessibility is a responsibility for all businesses. Boost recruitment, retention, and workplace morale by promoting an inclusive culture.

Prioritizing Accessibility When Recruiting & Retaining New Talent

Discover how prioritizing accessibility meets legislative requirements and boosts recruitment, retention, and workplace morale by promoting an inclusive culture, enhancing safety, and improving employer branding.

At CareerCircle, we believe that everyone deserves an equal chance to thrive in the modern workforce. As we reflect on 2023, it's heartening to see how far we've come in our mission to bridge the opportunity divide. This year, we've reached new heights in empowering underrepresented communities, advocating for hidden talents, and fostering a culture that values diversity and inclusion.
Upskilling for a Brighter Future: The RISE Program
In a significant stride towards our mission, we successfully upskilled 1,564 members through our Non-Profit Organization (NPO) programs. A highlight of this achievement is the success of our partnership with The Mom Project, the RISE program. This scholarship program is dedicated to accelerating equity, particularly for moms and women of color. 
In 2023, we celebrated 1,391 certifications through RISE, symbolizing our commitment to not just education, but also to fostering community and support. The beauty of RISE lies in its approach: empowering women to upskill in six months or less, and importantly, at no cost to participants.
Career Advancements: Placing Talents in New Opportunities
A key focus of our efforts this year was on empowering some of the most underserved groups in the job market. Single moms, veterans, and individuals returning to the workforce after injury or disability found a supportive and effective partner in CareerCircle. By understanding their unique challenges and strengths, we tailored our approach to ensure their successful transition into meaningful employment. 
Our commitment to career advancement in 2023 ended with 1,070 candidates placed in new jobs and positions. This milestone is not just a number &ndash; it represents the dreams and aspirations of individuals who are now on their way to fulfilling careers. Each placement is a story of transformation, resilience, and the power of opportunity. 
This milestone couldn&rsquo;t have been achieved without the power of community. Our network of mentors, coaches, and industry experts played an integral role in preparing these candidates for their new career journeys. From resume workshops to interview preparation, we provided comprehensive support every step of the way.
Recognition of Our Culture: Best Company Culture Award 2023
An affirmation of our internal efforts and values came with the Comparably award for Top 100 highest-rated companies for Best Company Culture in 2023. This recognition, based on anonymous employee feedback over the past 12 months on Comparably.com, is a testament to the environment we've nurtured within CareerCircle. It reflects our dedication to creating a workplace where every voice is heard, valued, and respected.
<h2 style="margin-top: 18pt; margin-bottom: 6pt;">Expanding Horizons: CareerCircle's Virtual Career Fairs of 2023</h2>
2023 was a standout year for CareerCircle, as we made waves by hosting three dynamic virtual career fairs. Joining forces with industry giants like T-Mobile and AT&amp;T, we brought a fresh impactful approach to virtual recruitment and networking. 
Our virtual career fairs created a platform for interaction between job seekers and some of the biggest companies spanning all industries. Participants had the unique opportunity to engage directly with representatives from T-Mobile and AT&amp;T, gaining invaluable insights into the companies and their hiring processes. 
By leveraging technology, we were able to transcend geographical barriers, bringing together a diverse pool of talent and top-tier employers in a dynamic and accessible online environment. We were able to broaden the horizons for job seekers and assist employers who wanted to tap into a wider, more diverse talent pool.
<h2 style="margin-top: 18pt; margin-bottom: 6pt;">Looking Ahead</h2>
As we reflect on the successes of 2023, we're inspired by the stories of those who've overcome obstacles to achieve their career goals. Their journeys are a powerful reminder of why we do what we do at CareerCircle. Looking ahead, we remain committed to breaking down barriers and opening doors for all, ensuring a diverse and inclusive workforce for the future. 
Moving forward, our focus remains on discovering and nurturing hidden talent. We are more committed than ever to breaking down barriers and building bridges for those who have been historically overlooked. Our journey continues in 2024 as we aim to not only close the opportunity divide, but to obliterate it. 
We look forward to a future where the workforce is as diverse as the world we live in, and where every individual has the chance to rise, thrive, and contribute to a brighter tomorrow.

This year, we've reached new heights in empowering underrepresented communities, advocating for hidden talents, and fostering a culture that values diversity and inclusion.

CareerCircle's Milestones in Transforming Lives in 2023

At CareerCircle, we believe that everyone deserves an equal chance to thrive in the modern workforce. As we reflect on 2023, it's heartening to see how far we've come in our mission to bridge the opportunity divide. This year, we've reached new heights in empowering underrepresented communities.

Empowering Change: CareerCircle's Milestones in Transforming Lives in 2023.

Life experiences outside the traditional job market - whether in caregiving, military service, volunteer work, or other areas - are often rich with soft skills like leadership, resilience, and adaptability.&nbsp;
 This guide is about translating those invaluable life-learned skills onto your resume. We'll show you how to frame your unique experiences as powerful assets, demonstrating to potential employers the diverse strengths and perspectives you bring. A good resume should tell your story and highlight the distinct perspective of your journey.
<h2 style="margin-top: 16pt; margin-bottom: 4pt;">Tailor Your Resume:</h2>
Tailoring your resume for each job application is crucial in today&rsquo;s competitive job market. A one-size-fits-all resume can easily get lost in a pile, but a customized one speaks directly to the specific needs and culture of the company you're applying to. 
By aligning your skills and experiences with the job description, you demonstrate that you're not just looking for any job, but that you're interested in this particular role at this specific organization. 
<ul style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;">
<li style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: #000000;">
Emphasize skills and experiences that are transferable to the job you're applying for, even if they were gained in a different context. Focus on how these skills are relevant to the new role. 
</li>
<li style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: #000000;">
Ensure your resume contains keywords and phrases from the job description. This helps your resume pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) and demonstrates your alignment with the role. 
</li>
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If there are potential concerns related to your unique background, such as employment gaps or career changes, address them briefly and positively in your cover letter or resume. 
</li>
<li style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: #000000;">
Use your resume to tell a story that connects your experiences to the job you're seeking. Explain how your background has prepared you for the role.
</li>
</ul>
<h2 style="margin-top: 16pt; margin-bottom: 4pt;">Showcase Achievements:</h2>
By quantifying your successes with specific examples, metrics, or outcomes, you provide a clear picture of your capabilities and the value you bring. This approach shifts the focus from what you've done to how well you've done it, illustrating your potential contributions to prospective employers. In a landscape where recruiters skim through numerous applications, well-articulated achievements can make your resume shine and capture their attention. 
<ul style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;">
<li style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: #000000;">
Where possible, quantify your achievements, regardless of where they occurred. Use concrete metrics, specific examples, and storytelling to give life to your successes. This makes your achievements more memorable and allows prospective employers to envision the value you can bring to their organization. 
</li>
<li style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: #000000;">
If you've dedicated time to earning certifications or undergoing training programs relevant to the role, make sure to feature them on your resume. This underscores your genuine commitment to honing the skills required for the job.
</li>
</ul>
<h2 style="margin-top: 16pt; margin-bottom: 4pt;">Highlight Skills Over Experience</h2>
This strategy is particularly important for those transitioning careers or those re-entering the workforce. By focusing on skills, you emphasize your ability to adapt and contribute in various roles, rather than just a chronological listing of past jobs. It showcases your competency and potential, addressing what you can do for the company moving forward. 
<ul style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;">
<li style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: #000000;">
Consider using a skills-based resume format, which places your skills and qualifications at the forefront. 
</li>
<li style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: #000000;">
Group your skills into categories relevant to the job you're applying for, such as "Project Management," "Digital Marketing," or "Customer Service." (P.S. if you&rsquo;re looking for more resume help check out <a style="text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.careercircle.com/blog/post/the-5-resume-tips-recruiters-want-you-to-know">The 5 Resume Tips Recruiters Want You To Know</a>.) 
</li>
<li style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: #000000;">
If you engaged in volunteer work, freelancing, or personal projects during your career gap, showcase them as valuable experiences.
</li>
</ul>
<h2 style="margin-top: 16pt; margin-bottom: 4pt;">Highlight Transferable Skills</h2>
By showcasing these abilities, you illustrate to potential employers that you possess a core set of skills that can be applied effectively in their organization, regardless of your previous jobs or experiences. This bridges the gap between different career experiences, showing how your unique background can bring a fresh perspective and diverse skill set to the new role. In essence, it's about selling not just where you've been, but what you can bring to where you're going. 
<ul style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;">
<li style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: #000000;">
Identify skills gained from previous experiences, even if they weren't in a traditional job setting. For instance, if you organized school fundraisers or managed household finances during your career break, highlight skills like event planning, budgeting, and time management. 
</li>
<li style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: #000000;">
If you have experience working with customers or clients, highlight your customer service skills. These skills are essential in industries focused on client satisfaction. 
</li>
<li style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: #000000;">
Be sure to mention if you're fluent in multiple languages. Being bilingual or multilingual can open doors. 
</li>
<li style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: #000000;">
Support your claims with specific examples from your experience. Share stories that showcase how you've applied these transferable skills successfully.
</li>
</ul>
<h2 style="margin-top: 16pt; margin-bottom: 4pt;">Touch On Soft Skills</h2>
Soft skills like teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence are increasingly valued in today's workforce, often as much as technical abilities. By highlighting these attributes, you not only showcase your professional competencies but also your personal qualities that contribute to a positive and productive work environment. 
In a market where technical skills can be quite similar across candidates, soft skills can be the differentiator that sets you apart. 
<ul style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;">
<li style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: #000000;">
Soft skills such as communication, adaptability, and problem-solving are highly valued by employers. Discuss how you've applied these skills in various situations, both personally and professionally. 
</li>
<li style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: #000000;">
Share instances where you've adapted to change and demonstrated resilience in facing challenges. Employers value candidates who can navigate change effectively. 
</li>
<li style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: #000000;">
Communication skills are a transferable skill that employers value across industries. Demonstrating strong communication at the virtual career fair is a way to showcase your abilities. 
</li>
</ul>
Remember that your resume is more than a document &ndash; it's a narrative of your professional journey. It's the first impression you leave with a potential employer, the initial handshake before you&rsquo;ve even entered the room. Each section, each bullet point, is a chapter in your story, an opportunity to showcase not just what you've done, but who you are and what you bring to the table. 
In the competitive world of searching for jobs, standing out is key. Your resume should not just tick boxes but also spark interest and conversation. It's about striking that fine balance between professionalism and personality, between brevity and impact. So take the time to tailor it, to polish it until it shines with the best version of your professional self. Your next job opportunity is out there, waiting for a resume like yours to cross the desk. Make it count. Make it memorable. Make it you. 
If you&rsquo;re looking for even more resume help, check out one of our <a style="text-decoration: none;" href="https://go.careercircle.com/resume-templates-for-job-seekers">Resume Templates</a>.

Translate life-learned skills into resume assets. Showcase leadership, resilience, and adaptability to impress employers.

Crafting Your Story: A Guide to Effective Resume Writing

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Kyndall Elliott

27 Articles

Prioritizing Accessibility When Recruiting & Retaining New Talent

Empowering Change: CareerCircle's Milestones in Transforming Lives in 2023.

Crafting Your Story: A Guide to Effective Resume Writing