E119 - Creating a Welcoming Workplace for Disabled Workers

First 100 Words
Coworkers with disabilities are more than capable of superior performance, but they do face unique difficulties. And while today’s workplaces are becoming more physically accommodating to disabled employees, managers and coworkers still struggle with how to appropriately respond to their struggles and challenges.

How much attention should be given to someone’s disability? Is it OK to inquire about it? When and how should you offer help? Most employees want to be accommodating but fear causing insult or offense. Frozen by uncertainty, some end up ignoring and/or avoiding their disabled coworkers. No one wins when this happens . . .

When To Use
How to positively respond to disabled workers; what to say and how to say it when faced with uncomfortable situations; seeing the individual, not the disability, changing your behavior/attitude.

How to Use
General education.