Picture of Published October 29, 2024

Published October 29, 2024

Job Opportunities for People With Disabilities in Calgary

Finding a job can make a big difference in someone’s life, providing a sense of purpose and a way to build meaningful connections in the community. If you’re navigating the job market with cognitive or physical challenges, there are a few tips to set you up for success. By knowing your strengths, preparing a strong resume, and finding the right supportive workplace, you can confidently step toward achieving your career goals. Whether in-person or remote, meaningful opportunities are out there, and with the right approach, they’re within reach!

Woman with a lanyard smiling at work.

Highlight Your Strengths

Building a strong resume is all about highlighting your unique strengths. Start by choosing a nice looking template in Word or Canva (many are free!) and replace the placeholder information with your own details. Always share what you’re good at and include any volunteer experience if you haven’t had a job before. Make sure your resume is only one or two pages long, using a simple font that you can easily read with big, bolded text for your titles. Key sections to include are: 

  • Your contact information (first and last name, email, and phone #)
  • A summary of who you are (1-2 sentences of what you do, your talents that could help in your job, etc.)
  • A list of your skills
  • Past work and/or volunteer experience
  • Your education or certifications

Be sure to proofread your resume when you’re done writing it up, then ask a friend or family member to check it over too! If you plan to apply to jobs in person, print out a few copies and keep them safe in a folder or duotang of your choice. If you apply to jobs online, save the resume document as a PDF file with the title as your first and last name and resume: ex. “Jane-Doe’s-Resume.pdf”. 

Get support when you need it; if you’re looking for advice on accommodations or interview tips, your CPLF Case Manager is here to help. Knowing your rights and preparing for success will help you shine!

Dress For Success

When applying for jobs or attending interviews, looking professional can make a big difference! Take a deep breath, put on a big smile and show that you’re happy to be there. To look your best, wear a nice, modest outfit that fits the job, and make sure you have clean, groomed hair and good hygiene for this exciting day. These small steps show that you’re respectful and prepared. Remember, confidence is your best accessory! Walk in with a positive attitude, and let your true self shine through—you’ve got this!

Inclusive Companies To Look Out For

Many businesses in Calgary welcome diverse abilities when hiring for their roles. Here are some options to explore:

  • Cineplex – Hires for roles like ticket scanning. 
  • Goodwill – Offers positions in retail, like organizing clothing. 
  • Walmart – Roles in customer service and stocking. 
  • Telus (Remote) – Customer service roles available. 
  • Tim Hortons – Great for cashier and food prep roles.
  • Starbucks – Positions in barista and customer service.
  • McDonald’s – Offers flexible roles in hospitality and food service.
  • The Home Depot – Various roles in cashiering and shelf stocking.
  • The City of Calgary – A quieter environment with data entry or filing positions.

Helpful Resources Are Available

There are several free resources available to help you on your job search journey! The Calgary Public Library offers free workshops on resume writing and interview preparation; check their event calendar for details. You can also explore Prospect Human Services in Calgary, which offers free employment support specifically for people with disabilities. Finally, the Government of Alberta provides various online tools and resources, like resume templates and job search tips, to help you feel confident and prepared. Good luck, and remember—there’s support to help you succeed!

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