How can you network and build relationships with people who have disabilities?

Networking and building relationships with people who have disabilities can be rewarding and beneficial for both parties. However, it can also be challenging if you are not familiar with their needs, preferences, and experiences. In this article, you will learn some tips and strategies to network and build relationships with people who have disabilities in a respectful and effective way.

1 Respect their autonomy

One of the most important things to remember when networking and building relationships with people who have disabilities is to respect their autonomy and dignity. Do not assume that they need your help, advice, or pity. Instead, ask them if they need any assistance, listen to their opinions and feedback, and acknowledge their achievements and contributions. Treat them as equals and partners, not as objects of charity or sympathy.

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Giulia Dalmonte

CSR and DEI Consultant | Disability Advocacy, Cultural Diversity
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Respecting autonomy is crucial, especially when interacting with individuals with disabilities. In social settings like networking events, I've often found that people are quick to offer assistance, even when it's not requested. For instance, when I have a drink in one hand and want to grab something else, well-meaning individuals may try to help. It's important to wait for individuals with disabilities to request assistance, even in situations like these. I have an impairment in one hand, so I can't use it, which means I've developed my own methods to manage. This autonomy is vital, and it's important that everybody respects it, even if tasks may be completed more slowly or differently than what non-disabled people are used to.

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2 Communicate clearly and appropriately

Another key aspect of networking and building relationships with people who have disabilities is to communicate clearly and appropriately. This means using plain and accessible language, avoiding jargon and slang, and adapting your communication style to their preferences and needs. For example, if you are talking to someone who is deaf or hard of hearing, you may need to use sign language, lip reading, or written notes. If you are talking to someone who has a cognitive or intellectual disability, you may need to use simple and concrete words, repeat or rephrase your messages, or use visual aids. Be patient, attentive, and respectful when communicating with people who have disabilities.

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3 Learn about their disability and culture

A third way to network and build relationships with people who have disabilities is to learn about their disability and culture. This means doing some research and asking questions to understand their challenges, strengths, and perspectives. It also means being aware of the diversity and complexity of the disability community, and avoiding stereotypes and generalizations. For example, not all people who use wheelchairs are paralyzed, not all people who are blind use Braille, and not all people who have autism are savants. Learning about their disability and culture can help you avoid misunderstandings, respect their identity, and appreciate their uniqueness.

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4 Be inclusive and supportive

A fourth tip to network and build relationships with people who have disabilities is to be inclusive and supportive. This means creating and promoting opportunities for them to participate and contribute in your network and activities. It also means providing and advocating for reasonable accommodations and accessibility features that can enable them to access and enjoy your network and activities. For example, you can invite them to join your online or offline events, provide captions or transcripts for your videos or podcasts, or offer flexible and alternative ways of working or collaborating. Being inclusive and supportive can help you build trust, loyalty, and mutual benefit with people who have disabilities.

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Tanya Thomas

LinkedIn Top Voice | Project Manager Arch Technologies| Professional Scrum Master™ I Procurement Specialist | CRM | Escalation Management |
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Building relationships with people who have disabilities requires empathy, inclusivity, and genuine support. Educate Yourself: Learn about different types of disabilities, their challenges, and the adaptive strategies people use. This understanding will help you approach conversations and interactions with sensitivity. Respect Personal Space: Respect personal boundaries, and always ask before offering assistance. Not all individuals with disabilities require help. Offer Assistance Thoughtfully: If you believe someone needs assistance, ask them how you can help instead of assuming. Respect their preferences and independence. Be Genuine:Approach relationships with authenticity and sincerity. Building trust is essential in any relationship.

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5 Seek feedback and improvement

A fifth strategy to network and build relationships with people who have disabilities is to seek feedback and improvement. This means asking them how they feel about your network and relationship, what they like and dislike, and what they suggest for improvement. It also means being open to constructive criticism, learning from your mistakes, and making changes accordingly. For example, you can ask them for their opinions and ideas on your projects or products, acknowledge and apologize for any errors or oversights, or implement their recommendations and solutions. Seeking feedback and improvement can help you enhance your network and relationship quality, satisfaction, and outcomes.

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6 Celebrate diversity and commonality

A sixth and final tip to network and build relationships with people who have disabilities is to celebrate diversity and commonality. This means recognizing and valuing the differences and similarities that you and they have, and how they enrich your network and relationship. It also means sharing and learning from each other's experiences, interests, and goals, and finding ways to connect and collaborate. For example, you can highlight and appreciate their skills and talents, express your gratitude and admiration, or discover and pursue your shared passions and visions. Celebrating diversity and commonality can help you foster a positive and lasting network and relationship with people who have disabilities.

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Shweta Barad

HR || Talent Acquisition Specialist APAC || EMEA || Driving Strategic Growth through People Management
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best thing we can do accept each other give them respect and make them fell they matter to us irrespective of their work and disabilities. their opinion matters and we listen and provide necessary support as and when it requires as everyone look for the respect and support as human being learn from each other.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Olu Aromashodu, MBA

Senior Sales Operations Manager at JOHN HOLT PLC
(edited)
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In summary one needs to be open minded. Open mindedness is an important quality to have in all aspect of our lives, especially in today's world where we are bombarded with new information and ideas every now and then. Disabilities, especially when it is physical has little or no direct effect on one's intellect, hence, people with disabilities have their own ideas and perspectives. Ones willingness to put into consideration these new ideas and perspectives, especially when they are different from one's own goes a long way to build relationships with people with disabilities.

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How can you network and build relationships with people who have disabilities?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Respect their autonomy

2 Communicate clearly and appropriately

3 Learn about their disability and culture

4 Be inclusive and supportive

5 Seek feedback and improvement

6 Celebrate diversity and commonality

7 Here’s what else to consider

Interpersonal Skills

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How can you network and build relationships with people who have disabilities?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Respect their autonomy

2 Communicate clearly and appropriately

3 Learn about their disability and culture

4 Be inclusive and supportive

5 Seek feedback and improvement

6 Celebrate diversity and commonality

7 Here’s what else to consider

Interpersonal Skills

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

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