Employing people with disabilities can be a great way for employers to boost creativity and innovation in the workplace.
There are on average 7.5% people living with a disability in South Africa. The rate of unemployment in the country is also significantly high: it is estimated that the unemployment rate stands at 25.4% - almost 4 times higher than the worldwide average. Considering South Africa’s skills shortage and the competitive marketplace, employers simply cannot ignore the market segment of the disabled community.
However, disabled people are still faced with the stereotypical assumptions and attitudes of employers regarding the extent of their abilities. These are other workplace misconceptions that prevent disabled people from being fully integrated into the workplace:
However, studies on people with disabilities in the workplace have proved that employees with disabilities are not in any way more likely to be injured in the workplace as other employees, and there are no differences in productivity or performance. Plus, on average, integrating people with disabilities into the workplace can be easy and practical. There are numerous non-profit organisations across the country that assist people with disabilities integrate into the workplace. Some organisations provide on-site training to teach the employee the job and help integrate them into the company. Some will focus on developmental disabilities and others will pay particular attention on physical disabilities.
Read: The facts about disability no one talks about at work
Great assets to the company
People with disabilities can be great assets to companies and can assist in strengthening the diversity of the workforce. Diversity and inclusion is about diversity of thought, background, experience, and abilities - among other things. This is the kind of diversity that drives innovation. In a study entitled Employing people with disabilities in South Africa, it was revealed that hiring disabled people can increase a company’s profitability levels. “Consumers favour [companies that employ people with disabilities] and thus provide them with more business.”
Read: The benefits of a solid company culture
To take advantage of these opportunities, employers should focus on the capabilities, skills and talent that potential employees can offer to the organisation. Progressive employers have seen the benefits that result from hiring people with disabilities which include:
For more on recruiting, integrating and retaining employees, visit our Career Advice page.
