6. Individualized
Negotiate to meet the unique/specific needs of the employer and skills of the job seeker, one person at a time.
One job—one person at a time.
- All aspects of supported employment are tailored to the needs and capabilities of each person: job procurement, job matching, training and supports.
- Jobs that are created should be unique and specific to the individual’s ideal conditions for employment.
- Jobs are not shared with other people with disabilities without the integration of non-disabled workers (i.e. a work crew).
- Successful employment matches often happen after a thorough discovery process has been completed, and only if the ideal conditions, themes and interests point to that job.
- To ensure jobs are individualized, first determine the job seeker’s skills and interests and then find a job that suits them, rather than finding a job first and trying to match individuals.
- Seek jobs for individuals that are legitimately viable without being heavily subsidized by an agency or government program, or jobs that require the support worker to do the job for the job seeker.
Become familiar with the business and figure out how best to fill their request for a new employee. Trust and authenticity are key to a successful job match. Do not promise what you cannot deliver.