Frequently Asked Questions from Employers
1. We are new to disability initiatives, where do we start?
The NBDC can assist you every step of the way — from making the business case and securing the commitment of top management, to developing and implementing a plan that includes creating a welcoming environment for applicants and employees with disabilities, assuring that facilities are accessible, establishing relationships with referral sources, training staff in appropriate interviewing techniques, making reasonable accommodation, supervising and managing employees with disabilities, assuring that employees with disabilities have access to all the benefits and privileges of employment, to developing special initiatives worthy of being considered Best Practices. Membership Specialists at the NBDC can also assist you in putting together a plan of action that meets your organizations particular needs. They can be reached at (516) 465-1519.
2. What makes the National Business & Disability Council unique?
NBDC membership provides access to a team of professionals uniquely qualified to assist private and public sector employers on all employment and disability issues. Direct services include prompt, accurate, and complete responses to all information requests, access to a complete audio/visual, print and online library of resources, customized stafftraining, accessibility surveys, worksite assessments and reasonable accommodation guidance, access to the only National Resume Database for jobseekers with disabilities who have at least 2-years of college or technical training as verified by an independent source, as well as opportunities to network and share best practices with other similarly situated employers.
3. Who are people with disabilities?
According to the Americans with Disabilities Act, a person with a disability is generally defined as someone who (1) has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more “major life activities,” (2) has a record of such an impairment, or (3) is regarded as having such an impairment. Coverage by the law is determined on a case-by-case basis. While the mention of disability typically brings to mind individuals who are wheelchair users or who are deaf or blind, persons with arthritis, back injury, cancer, diabetes and many other health-related conditions may be considered individuals with disabilities. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 49.7 million Americans have a disability, which includes people of all ages. U.S. Census Bureau Ratio of 1:5 or 19%
4. Why hire people with disabilities?
Recruit from an untapped resource of qualified workers from entry level to professional (There will be an estimated labor shortage of 10 million workers in 2006). Reduce staff turnover. Research has shown that workers with disabilities have had fewer job changes and absences than workers without disabilities, and safety records equal to or better than their peers with disabilities. Demonstrate your organization's social responsibility to the communities in which it does business. Reflect the composition of the consumer market - this will impact product design, service delivery, and, ultimately, the bottom line. Access the resourcefulness and creativity of people with disabilities, many of whom, of necessity, have become “master” problem solvers. Benefit from federal and state tax credits when applicable Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC), http://www.irs.ustreas.gov/prod
5 . I use local resources, why do I need NBDC?
We encourage our members to utilize local recruiting resources in filling open positions. An extensive listing can be found in our Yellow Pages. In addition, NBDC provides access to our National Resume Database so that members may identify applicants with disabilities with at least two years of college or more or equivalent technical training. However, NBDC services go far beyond applicant referral — beginning with creating a welcoming environment to staff training and facility accessibility through supervising employees with disabilities, making reasonable accommodation, and much more.
6 .How much does an average accommodation cost?
Most accommodations costs under $500. Many are procedural like flextime, scheduling to facilitate use of public transportation, and job restructuring, requiring no direct costs. For many sophisticated accommodations, like the purchase of state-of-the-art equipment, financial support may be available through state offices of vocational rehabilitation
7. Where can I get information about a specific disability?
The NBDC Yellow Pages contains specific links. If you don’t see what you are looking for, contact NBDC Information Services at (516) 465-1519
8. When I become a member, do other offices in our organization have accessto NBDC services?
Yes, we encourage you to add other individuals in your organization with human resources, recruiting, employee relations, diversity, and marketing responsibilities to your contact list.
9. Why should we market to people with disabilities?
The 49.7 million Americans with disabilities constitute the largest minorityin the nation. They make up a huge consumer market with plentiful opportunities.
Within the households of the 49.7 million Americans with Disabilities:
- 73% are head of household
- 48% are principal shoppers
- 77% have no children
- 58% are homeowners
With yearly disposable income in excess of 230 billion dollars, people disabilities are a powerful force in the marketplace.
Studies have shown that four in every ten consumers are reached when promotional efforts are aimed at people with disabilities. What’s more, companies connect with all consumers — disabled and non-disabled — and receive positive feedback. The result? Brand-loyal relationships, increased sales, goodwill, and changed public perception.
10. How do we market to people with disabilities?
NBDC can help you to better understand the needs of this market through technical assistance in product development or by conducting research prior to the launch of your advertising campaign. We provide the expert evaluation and first-hand feedback that can drive your decisions in the right direction.
Among the most potent tools we offer:
- Focus groups of people with disabilities who represent your customers and/or prospects
- Awards of Honor program
- Sponsorship opportunities available both regionally and nationally
- Links from our website directly to yours
Laura M. Francis
Coordinator of Information Services
National Business & Disability Council
201 I.U. Willets Road
Albertson, NY 11507
Tel.:(516) 465-1519
Fax: (516) 465-3730
