Job Resources

Working with People with Disabilities:

How do you know if this career is right for you?  You’re a candidate to become a worker in this field if you:

• Demonstrate cooperation, teamwork, energy, patience, and optimism
• Believe that people with developmental disabilities are entitled to the same respect and opportunities as everyone else
• Like to communicate with people
• Are willing to learn from others
• Enjoy solving problems
• Are open minded and flexible

Most direct support professionals did not know they were right for the job.  In most cases, many never even thought of working with individuals with developmental disabilities.  They just happened upon it.  People who provide direct support have done many different things.  Some have been waitresses, retail clerks, bartenders, construction workers, teachers, computer operators, and healthcare workers.  Others start right out of school or are returning to work.

In all cases, people who enjoy working directly with individuals with developmental disabilities have discovered a level of personal satisfaction that was often missing in their previous jobs. Working with people with developmental disabilities often leads to long-term relationships that enrich the lives of both people for years to come.  

Formal Education Opportunities:

A number of people who enjoy working in this field look at further professional development opportunities. Most agencies provide on-site and mentor based programs. In addition, there is an excellent program offered by the Saskatchewan Institute of Applied Science and Technology (SIAST).   The program is called the Disability Support Worker (Formerly Rehabilitation Support Worker).

Click here for information on the program, transfer credits, admission requirements, distance learning opportunities, and Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR).

TIPS FOR GREAT INTERVIEWS

Great job interviews can lead to great jobs. And the best way to ensure success is to be prepared. Here are steps you can take to have a great job interview. 

• Prepare questions in advance. This helps you focus on what’s important to you. 
• Be prepared to say in one sentence why you are interested in the job. Be prepared to explain in more detail. 
• Ask the interviewer to explain what it will take to succeed in the job you’re discussing. 
• Be honest. If you haven’t had a particular experience, just say so. Most direct support professionals had never done this type of work before. 
• Bring along a neatly written or typed set of names of people who are willing to provide a reference. Include their title, organization, address, and telephone number. Get permission from these people to use their names. 
• Be rested and alert. 
• Dress neatly. The way you present yourself shows others that you care about yourself. 
• If you think you’ll be late for the interview, or won’t be able to make it, call as soon as you learn about the change. Remember, everybody’s time is valuable.