Adrienne Kleinman's Blog (158)

Though it has only been 3 years since the General Assembly of the United Nations has proclaimed 4 January as World Braille Day, it remains a most important day, “recognizing that the full realization of human rights and fundamental freedoms relies on an inclusive written promotion.” I would be remiss if I didn’t include mention…

It is customary for a jobseeker to practice and prepare for their job interview— while it doesn’t necessarily guarantee that they will have a successful interview, it will ensure that the process goes smoother than without there being any preparation at all. The same can be said for following up an interview by adding a personal touch or note of some kind— it won’t ensure an offer of employment, but it can’t hurt, and will better one’s chances! Below I’ll go…

It’s that time of the year again, December 3rd, which is a global observance called the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. This day has been in existence since October 14th, 1992 when the UN General Assembly proclaimed it. Around the world folks will participate in exhibitions that promote disabled artists, gather…

Google is one of the most glorious creations in recent history, not only for its capacity to bring knowledge to users at an alarmingly fast rate, but for its depth of search. If you ever have typed in your name, or those of your loved ones into the popular search engine, you know how much can be brought to the surface for all to view. Photographic documentation of past meals, accomplishments, outings, and even those moments you’d rather forget. Those digital…

Voting day is a very exciting time to be a citizen in this country. You’re given the opportunity to let your voice be heard, and hopefully be able to vote someone into office that you can believe in to lead the masses in a positive direction. Though, with all the excitement can also come great disappointment. Your chosen candidate may not win and that can be a hard reality to stomach. Whatever the outcome, voting is a privilege. As a disabled woman, I can…

For many in the workforce, getting right into their desired career wasn’t the first stop after graduation. A person’s career trajectory isn’t necessarily linear, there will be an ebb and flow to it. If getting your dream job right away isn’t attainable, or you get laid off, then a great next step is to look into working at a temp agency. While working a position that might only be temporary for you seems absurd when you’re looking to gain experience in a…

This October marks National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). Since 1988, this month has been recognized by the United States Congress as a means to raise awareness of the contributions and employment needs of disabled individuals. As a division of the U.S. Department of Labor, the Office of Disability Employment…

Networking can look a little different to every jobseeker. Depending on what industry you’re trying to get established in, your approach may be really hands-on, or more through word of mouth as in the phone, email, or what have you. The topic I’d like to discuss today is another approach to networking called focused networking. 

Focused networking is having a heightened sense and awareness of who you want to associate and connect with as you…

Networking can look a little different to every jobseeker. Depending on what industry you’re trying to get established in, your approach may be really hands-on, or more through word of mouth as in the phone, email, or what have you. The topic I’d like to discuss today is another approach to networking called focused networking. 

Focused networking is having a heightened sense and awareness of who you want to associate and connect with as you…

This upcoming September 23rd marks the International Day of Sign Language as recognized by the United Nations. This day is important as it supports the continued protection of the linguistic identity and cultural diversity of deaf…

Effective listening is a concept that is integral to receiving gainful employment. Being an attentive listener may seem pretty straight forward, but when it comes to listening in an employment environment, it’s imperative that you’re exceptionally attune to everything that is being communicated. An interviewer will be conveying a lot of information to the interviewee and it is in their best interest to be the best listener that they can…

Last month not only did we celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA), but we celebrated Disability Pride Month as well. Having lived with a disability my whole life, it has been only this past year that I’ve really come into my own with feeling open and proud of my disability. Since the history…

Just like clothing, music, and pop culture (to name a few), different industries will undergo trends. These can be anywhere from rebranding a key function of a piece of machinery — let’s say a laptop! — to utilize less material and make it sleeker, to a new style of women’s shirt that was inspired by either a popular celebrity or a figure in pop culture. Trends are varied and are always changing. If you find yourself searching for a new position of employment…

This summer marks a very huge milestone for the disability community. On July 26, 1990 it will have been 30 years since the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law. This very essential and important civil rights law “prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including jobs,…

I know you’re not supposed to make assumptions about the way people conduct their lives, but I’m gonna guess that most folks when they wake up each day put on clothes. Some wear clothing for fashion, style, comfort, practicality, or to send a particular message. Wherever you fall on the scale of preferences on what to wear, there’s one certainty: when it comes to your employment, there’s most certainly some sort of a dress code. A potential employer will gain…

The world has been in turmoil for a while now, and was brought even more to the brink last week after the tragic death of George Floyd, a black man who died at the hands of a police officer in my hometown of Minneapolis. This tragedy sparked an outrage across the city, state, nation, and world, the masses crying…

Before you get to the point of performing, presenting, or staging something, you’ll want to rehearse beforehand. The same applies to an interview with a potential employer. If you read on below, there are several ways that you can get yourself prepared for the real deal! 

The old saying “practice makes perfect” comes from a place of truth. The more that you work at something the greater chance of success that you’ll have. When it comes to your…

While the coronavirus pandemic continues to cause stress and sadness the world over, I thought it would be appropriate to provide some helpful information for members to use as a resource during these trying times. This month I am featuring resources from the American Civil…

One of the most crucial aspects of the job search is doing your research, especially before an interview with a potential future employer. It not only gives you an edge over other candidates if you have an extensive amount of knowledge because you will appear dedicated and invested, but it will allow the conversation during the interview to have an added layer of depth.

When I was actively searching for employment post college I would make it a…

In these uncertain times we are currently facing, there’s one thing for certain: no one is exempt from the effects of the coronavirus. Whether you’ve lost your job due to layoffs, are stuck in your home, separated from your dearest loved ones, fear for your health and sanity, or are experiencing symptoms of sickness, it’s quite clear that these days past, present, and to come will be riddled with added stress. We’ve had to adapt as a globe, as a human race, on…