Are there other sources of job-related information?

In addition to blindness and low vision-specific resources, consider these sources of job-related information:

Personal networking

Ask everyone you know if they have a job or have heard of a job that you can perform. Write a simple resume [1] that highlights jobs you have performed (i.e., household chores, school assignments, or volunteer work) and distribute it to friends, extended family, teachers, and even new acquaintances.

Chamber of Commerce

Your local Chamber of Commerce [2] provides publications and networking opportunities that can help you learn more about local businesses and employment possibilities, including private or non-profit community-based employment and placement agencies.

Newspaper Business Articles and Job Listings

Local newspapers and other media often feature new companies that are entering your area. Each new business has potential job openings and it can be helpful to “cold call” these companies (i.e., stop by unannounced) and learn about job opportunities that are available. While you are there, request an application and make sure you remember the receptionist’s or secretary’s name, as well as the name of the business owner. Television news channels that specialize in business news are also good sources of information. Read the Help Wanted job listings to see the types of opportunities available in your community.

Youth Groups

Explore opportunities in local youth groups, such as the Boys’ and Girls’ Clubs of America [3], and church and community organizations. Some community groups sponsor Job Clubs that help members assist one another in job search efforts.

On-Line Job Search Sites

Monster.com [4] provides a broad range of job-related information, including getting a job, posting a resume, information about job fairs, and career advice.

Be an active participant in your career exploration. Listen and gain information from all of your sources until you focus on an employment strategy that’s right for you. While opportunity, support, and knowledge can go a long way in determining the job you’ll select, it is you who must make the final career decision.

Online Vocational and Aptitude Tests

Also, you might want to investigate the following resources that provide online vocational and aptitude tests:

• Career Development eManual [5]
• Career Key [6]
• The Keirsey Temperament Sorter [7]
• National Clearinghouse for Rehabilitation Training Materials [8]
• O*Net Online [9]
• Type Focus [10]