Finding the Right Fit for Yourself
Creating your SPIN
What areas do you need help with?
Everyone has things that they are good at and no skill is insignificant. When we think about our “strengths” we can break things down into two parts, 1) the skills we have, and 2) our positive traits. To find the right job match and be successful in employment we need to have a combination of both.
A skill is the ability to do something well and usually comes from natural ability or practice. There are many useful skills that employers are looking for. They might include being able to use technology, having experience using certain tools or machines, or being able to create fun activities for other people. You probably have many more skills than you know. If you are having trouble thinking of the skills you have, ask your family, teacher, or friends what they see as your greatest skills.
A trait is a quality that we have that makes us who we are. For example, a person might be friendly, observant, hardworking, or curious. Employers seek employees with positive traits because that means the person is more likely to do a good job. What do you think are your best traits? What do others say they appreciate about you?
Just like everyone has skills, everyone has areas they need help with. It is completely normal not to be good at everything. As an individual with disabilities, it is important that you understand the things you need help with. One way to make sure you find a good job match is to find work that maximizes your strengths and minimizes your need areas.
Scenario
Diego always wanted to work at a sports arena. He loves the local teams and enjoys attending games with his family. Diego got the opportunity to tour the local arena and learn about all the different types of jobs that are needed. After the tour he thought that selling tickets and working security would not be a good fit for his skills. However, he knew the arena seating chart well and thought he could help people find their seats on gamedays. He also liked the idea of bringing supplies to the food vendors when needed. Thinking of job tasks that matched his skills made him excited to interview for a position.
Youth Transition
This video explores how Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) help students with disabilities prepare for life after high school. Through career exploration, work-based learning, self-advocacy, and job-readiness training, students gain the skills and confidence to pursue their goals and build greater independence.
Video: Finding the Right Fit For Yourself - Transition Youth