Effective Job-Hunting Techniques for People with Sensory Processing Sensitivities was originally published on DiversityJobs.
Picture this: you’re someone with sensory processing difficulties (or perhaps identify as a Highly Sensitive Person [HSP]) stuck in a bustling office, where bright lights and constant noise leave you feeling overwhelmed. You want to seek a rewarding job and a sensory-friendly environment that matches your complex processing needs. This guide offers job-hunting techniques for those with sensory processing sensitivities aimed at finding a career where your sensory experiences are supported.
1. Target Sensory-Friendly Workplaces
Seek out inclusive and sensory-friendly organizations known for their quiet spaces, flexible work arrangements, and a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. Additionally, consider fields like counseling, therapy, social work, art, design, environmental conservation, and research well-suited for HSPs. These careers not only accommodate but also benefit from your innate empathy, deep processing abilities, and meticulous attention to detail.
2. Research and Customize Your Search Criteria
Utilize job platforms like Glassdoor or LinkedIn to gain insights into companies’ cultures and accommodations. Specialized websites like The Mighty or Inclusively offer job listings for individuals with various needs, allowing you to filter based on specific accommodations.
Beyond the usual job requirements, add sensory-friendly criteria to your job search. Look for roles that specify a low-stress environment, minimal travel requirements, or offer the ability to work in quieter, less crowded settings. Utilize job search filters to narrow down roles that meet these specific conditions.
3. Contact Specialized Agencies and Inclusive Networks
Find employment agencies or career counselors specializing in placing individuals with sensory sensitivities or neurodiverse conditions. These experts understand your unique needs and can connect you with knowledgeable and accommodating employers.
Join professional groups, online communities, or forums focusing on inclusivity and diversity in the workplace. Networking with peers who face similar challenges or have experience in contributing to the workforce with sensory sensitivities can offer invaluable insights and potential job leads.
4. Consider Exploring Unconventional Working Options
Small businesses or companies primarily operating remotely are often ideal for those with sensory sensitivities, offering a more controlled and customizable work environment. These settings typically provide greater flexibility, allowing you to either work from home or in a smaller, quieter office setting, which is essential for creating a sensory-friendly workspace tailored to manage sensory triggers effectively.
Additionally, for individuals who find traditional work environments challenging, exploring entrepreneurship presents an opportunity to create a work environment and schedule that caters specifically to sensory needs and ensures complete control over the workplace’s sensory aspects.
5. Prepare a Sensory-Friendly Interview Kit
Assemble a kit to take to interviews that include items to help manage sensory overload, such as noise-canceling headphones, sensory fidget tools, or tinted glasses for harsh lighting. This preparation enables you to stay comfortable during a potentially stressful meeting and subtly communicates your needs to potential employers, opening the door for discussions about workplace accommodations.
Remember, sensory sensitivities are not a barrier but a distinctive trait that can lead to fulfilling and successful career opportunities.
