Online job boards are considered an excellent job search tool. Job search sites are everywhere, from general job boards to niche and specialized job boards. Employers that post jobs for deaf and hard of hearing people can help to narrow the job listings that are dedicated to job seekers who want to work with other deaf and hard of hearing people. When you navigate through deaf job boards for new job opportunities, here are eight best tips on how to best use one:
1. Visit regularly
You should regularly visit your favorite deaf job boards or sites for new job postings or listings. Latest job vacancies usually are listed daily or weekly. You should bookmark your favorite deaf job board sites on your Internet browser, so you can quickly visit those sites to view new postings.
2. Fill out applications yourself
Don't contact the deaf job boards to give you a job. They only list job ads that are paid by employers. You will need to apply for the jobs directly with the employers by yourself. It is perfectly fine to get help from a friend or a job coach when applying for jobs or to fill out the application, but deaf job boards or websites do not apply jobs for you.
3. Search and apply for jobs that you are qualified for
Deaf job boards and sites have many vacancies to choose from. Be sure to look through the listings carefully to find jobs that you are qualified for based on your education, skills, and work experience. You need to evaluate your qualifications carefully. It is perfectly okay to ask the employers questions about the job vacancy if you are unsure or the ad itself does not answer to your questions then you can decide if you want to apply for the job or not.
4. Search for abbreviations and other variations, too.
Deaf job boards often have commonly abbreviated words such as American Sign Language (ASL) or deaf and hard of hearing (DHH, D/HH or D-HH), or use commonly different words such as instructor, teacher, adjunct, etc. Make sure you are searching those shortened versions or word variations that are quite common in your fields, too. In doing this, it helps you not to miss the job postings that you might like and are qualified for. Be sure also to use the search box if the deaf job boards have it. Use the "find" feature on your Internet browser if the site does not have a search box for you to use.
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5. Be open to new deaf job opportunities – even for out-of-state
Jobs that are specifically for deaf and hard of hearing people can be far and between. If you do not find ASL or deaf-related employment that you want or like in your home area, try to consider looking for other openings beyond your home area even if it is out-of-state, if your life-situation allows it. Being open to new opportunities in different areas can improve your chances of getting a job if you are willing or able to move.
6. Read blog articles for employment tips
Some deaf job boards have fantastic blog articles for deaf and hard of hearing job seekers and employers. These blog articles can be helpful and thought-provoking. Also, these articles can give practical employment tips or advice for deaf and hard of hearing people who are actively looking for work. Not only that, these articles can also provide best practices for the employers who are recruiting deaf and hard of hearing individuals join their workforce.
7. Stay positive!
Looking for work can be a slow and frustrating experience for anyone, especially for the deaf and hard of hearing people. It is crucial to stay positive throughout the job search process, even if you are still applying or interviewing for some time. Employers that list employment opportunities on deaf job boards or websites show that they are very interested in hiring deaf and hard of hearing people. Your chances in securing employment through ASL or deaf-related job websites improve because the employers are actively looking for candidates who are deaf and hard hearing.
8. Tell employers where you saw their job ads
It is also very important for you to tell the employers where you saw their job ads. Don't be vague by saying that you saw the ad online or the Internet. Don't say that you saw the ad on social media. Be specific. If you saw a job posting on a particular deaf job board or specific deaf job search company's page on the social media site, tell the employer exactly where you saw the ad. Employers always evaluate their recruiting efforts and tools to determine what work and what don't. In many ways deaf job boards or websites are helping you to find work, you should return the favor by informing the employers where you saw the job ads, so the employers will continue to advertise their job vacancies on these sites.
Good luck with your job search!