When you're helping someone you love navigate a job search—especially someone managing a disability or living with a chronic health condition—the rules of the game shift. It’s no longer about just writing a tight résumé or prepping for interviews. It’s about resilience, timing, accessibility, and understanding that finding meaningful work sometimes feels like threading a needle in the dark. But here’s the thing: that needle can be threaded. I’ve seen it happen. And if you’re reading this, chances are you’re already holding the thread.

Rethink “Accessible” Beyond the Obvious

When you think of accessible jobs, you might picture ramps and ergonomic chairs. Those matter, but accessibility runs deeper. True access is about flexible scheduling, the option to work remotely, understanding managers, and clear internal policies that support health accommodations without red tape. Start your search on job boards that specialize in disability-inclusive listings—sites like GettingHired, AbilityJOBS, or even broader platforms with robust filters like FlexJobs and Indeed. Dig into company review sites too. Glassdoor and Comparably can offer insights on culture that go beyond the brochure.

Balance Growth and Flexibility

Sometimes the next step in your career isn’t about landing a job—it’s about building the foundation to thrive in one. Earning an online degree can open doors you didn’t know were locked, especially if you're interested in fields like psychology where understanding human behavior plays a direct role in making lives better. Whether you're supporting someone with a chronic illness or navigating your own health journey, online programs give you the structure to study while still showing up for the people who need you most. If you're ready to turn your compassion into a credential, this is worth exploring.

Lead with What Makes You (or Your Loved One) Thrive

There’s often pressure to downplay disability or health concerns in professional spaces. But here’s a quiet truth: the very things that make your situation different can be the key to what makes you invaluable. Maybe living with unpredictability has made you adaptable in ways others aren’t. Maybe advocating for a sibling with lupus or a parent with Parkinson’s has taught you project management and emotional intelligence. Frame those stories as strengths. They’re not just “soft skills”—they’re proof of grit and grace under pressure.

Don’t Let the Job Description Intimidate You

It’s tempting to see a long list of requirements and immediately click out. But job descriptions are wish lists, not commandments. Especially for people with disabilities, it’s easy to internalize the idea that you need to be extra qualified just to be considered. That’s a lie. If a posting asks for 10 things and you have six solidly covered, apply anyway. Tailor your cover letter to what you can bring and be direct about your enthusiasm. Enthusiasm often trumps perfect qualifications—yes, even in 2025.

Network Like You’re Sharing a Story, Not Making a Sale

Traditional networking advice can sound like a pitch deck—tight elevator speeches, LinkedIn connections, coffee chats. But when you’re job hunting while also managing care needs (yours or someone else’s), networking should feel human, not transactional. Reach out to people in roles you admire and ask how they got there. If you’re comfortable, share a bit about your circumstances—not as an apology, but as context. You’ll be surprised how many folks respond not just with advice, but with advocacy.

Prep for Interviews With Your Health Realities in Mind

Everyone preps for interviews, but if health is part of your daily reality, your prep might look a little different. Do interviews drain your energy? Try to schedule them earlier in the day or break up multi-round interviews across several days. Need screen reader tools or sign language interpreters? Ask in advance—it’s your right. Some candidates even create a short “access needs” document to share with HR. It’s proactive, professional, and it saves a lot of back-and-forth.

Practice Saying What You Need Without Apology

This part’s hard. If you’ve spent years navigating the world while trying not to “make a fuss,” asking for accommodations might feel like you're breaking an unspoken rule. But here’s the truth: you deserve to work in a space where your health isn’t a liability. Learn the phrases that work for you—“I thrive best in roles with flexible scheduling,” or “I perform at my highest when remote options are available”—and get comfortable repeating them. Boundaries aren’t burdens. They’re prerequisites for thriving.

Remember That You’re Not Doing This Alone

The job hunt can feel lonely. It’s easy to scroll past highlight reels on social media and feel like everyone else has it figured out. They don’t. Especially not when life throws in curveballs like disability or chronic illness. Lean on your people—your group chats, your church community, your therapist, your virtual support forums. Let them read your résumé. Let them role-play your interview. Let them remind you that work is just one part of a full, deeply valuable life.

Here’s the part no one tells you loud enough: finding a job isn’t just about the job. It’s about dignity. Routine. Purpose. Stability. And yes, it’s about supporting your loved ones without giving up on yourself. For those navigating the job market with disability or chronic health in the equation, the stakes often feel higher—but so is the strength you bring to the table. You’re not chasing pity. You’re not looking for special treatment. You’re looking for the right match. And with the right tools, persistence, and community, that match is out there—waiting for you to walk in, not despite your story, but because of it.

Discover how the Charlie E & Minnie P Hendrix Foundation is making a difference in the lives of those with chronic illnesses and learn how you can get involved in this inspiring mission today!

**We extend our sincere thanks to Marjorie McMillian for her valuable contribution to the Charlie E & Minnie P Hendrix Foundation blog.**