How to Make Communication Easier with a Specially-Abled Workforce?
Communication is key in any aspect of life. It is termed as transferring or instilling knowledge from one person to another. However, communication with specially-abled individuals may come with its challenges. Certain people have certain reservations such as:
· Not knowing what terms to use
· Not being sure of what could be offensive
· Not being well versed in effective communication strategies
· Have had a prior bad experience
Whilst communication with specially-abled people can be hard sometimes, it is manageable with a few quick tips. Here are some ways we can communicate with a specially-abled workforce:
Never Make the Disability the Defining Feature
When you are describing someone who has a disability, do not make the disability the defining feature of the person. The simplest way you can do this is by calling them people with a disability rather than a ‘disabled person’.
Be Sensitive and Understanding
Some people with a disability might depend on their arms for balance. Never pat or push while talking to them. Avoid touching their wheelchair or any other equipment they are using to help themselves. More so, people with disabilities consider their equipment a part of their personal space so avoid invading it.
Be Respectful
Talk to them directly and be respectful. Do not look at their companion like the sign language interpreter while asking them something. This is very disrespectful. Talk directly to them just the way you talk to other people around you.
Be Specific
Always try to grab a person’s attention before speaking to them. This can be done by either taking their name or making eye contact. Try using simple language when asking a question or when answering a question. Be very specific and direct.
Talk in a Comfortable Space
Avoid talking in a place that has a lot of distractions. Talk to them in a space where you are less likely to be interrupted by distractions.
All in all, people with disabilities face many hurdles in the workplace. These can be emotional hurdles like facing bullying or can be physical hurdles like having no ramps for wheelchairs. So, it is vital to create an accessible environment for everyone.
And lastly, let us all remember that having a disability should not stop a person from seeking work. Nor should they be discriminated.
Subsequently, policies should be in place to accommodate these people as every individual deserves a leveled playing field and equal opportunities.
We should never forget the importance of inclusion in life and at the workplace!
