Disability Employment Awareness Month: Myth Buster Edition

Let's Get to the Truth!

Disability Employment Awareness Month reminds every one of the achievements of people with disabilities but is also a great time to address the many myths that still hinder progress for workers with disabilities.

So, in this month's blog we ae going to do some Myth Busting. Let's tackle the top 5 most persistent myths about employing people with disabilities.

Common Myths and the Real Truths

• Myth 1: Disabled employees are less competent or capable and in many cases were only hired as part of a diversity initiative.

  Truth: Disability does not equal incompetence. People with disabilities obtain education and skills just like everyone else. 1 in 4 Americans have a disability which means many skilled professionals have disabilities. The majority of disabilities are invisible -- Epilepsy, Dyslexia, ADD etc. People with disabilities are hired because they are qualified to fulfill the needs of the role.

  
  

• Myth 2: Disabled employees are not as productive as employees without disabilities.

  Truth: Managers consistently report employees with disabilities are just as productive as everyone else. Productivity hinges on accessible workplaces, not disability. When environments and tools are inclusive, employees of all abilities meet—and exceed—expectations.

  
  

• Myth 3: Disabled employees need constant assistance.

  Truth: This statement is false. Many employees with disabilities do not require any assistance. Some employees may need a one-time accommodation like a larger monitor or adjustments to their work schedule. Employees with disabilities usually know what works best for them and thrive when accommodations are available.

  
  

• Myth 4: Accommodations are only for struggling employees.

  Truth: Accommodations allow employees to perform at their best—they’re not just for those facing challenges. Employees with and without disabilities get accommodations all the time - working mothers who need to leave early for school related events, an employee going back to school needs to adjust their schedule Tuesdays and Thursdays to meet class requirements, or an employee who has a hurt back and wants a sit/stand desk. Accommodating employee needs is good for business.

  
  

• Myth 5: Accommodations are expensive or burdensome.

  Truth: According to the Job Accommodations Network (JAN) 60% of accommodations are FREE. And most accommodations are less than $500 or even free. Accessible practices benefit everyone and pay off in productivity, retention, and morale.

  
  

Moving from Awareness to Action

Creating better workplaces is possible when organizations tackle myths with facts. Everyone benefits when workplaces are built on accessibility and respect—not outdated assumptions.