Most people end up with the careers that they want. However, an accident on the job or at home has the potential to ruin your career for good. Instead of staying at home and avoiding new employment, you can start fresh and find a new career path. Here’s some advice on changing careers after an injury.
Look for a backup plan
As you change careers after an injury, review your backup plan. This includes a list of alternative careers that interest you. Then, review the realistic limits of your disability and see if pursuing one of these careers is an option.
Like any other job hunt, you cannot expect to get a job offer for every position you apply for automatically. Make a variety of applications and send them out in batches. If necessary, feel free to apply for one or more part-time positions.
Explaining the gap
At the interview, you’ll have to explain the gap in your resume. Mention the injury, but only briefly. Instead of explaining the circumstances that caused the injury and the difficulties of recovery in depth, try to focus on the gap of unemployment. Speak positively and mention what you were doing, such as looking for other work or undergoing physical therapy.
Check your disability
It’s important to inform yourself about what happens to disability benefits if you become employed again. You may not be dropped right away, and it may take months until you earn enough money to be independent again. Hold onto the benefits for as long as the funds are given. Always be honest about your existing status when reapplying for benefits.
Similarly, compensation can cover your lost wages and medical bills. But the insurer prevents clients from taking more than they deserve. Once you start working, the benefits are not guaranteed.
Remember what you could do
Do not forget about all of the jobs that you used to have. Some disabilities are temporary, and even if healing takes several years, there is hope for a recovery. Some people recover parts of their functions, while others make full, whole-body recoveries.
Plan how you should return to the workplace. Based on the new career paths you’d like to take, think about the many ways you can increase your chances of being hired over other candidates. For example, many workers increase their chances by obtaining additional education like certifications.
People with disabilities have many options when it comes to employment and career paths. No injury should lead to the assumption that you are disqualified from working forever. Learn what you should do to change careers and continue to earn a living.
What advice do you have on changing careers after an injury? Let us know in the comments below.
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