Blogs

During a year when so many have had to pivot and adjust, the Goodwill Day Services program is no different.

In celebration of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, Goodwill is sharing inspiring stories of people with disabilities who have overcome struggles.

Most of us can think of a handful of successful people off the top of our heads – at work, in our communities, in major industries all around the world. But, what many of us may not think of right away is the one thing they likely all have in common: a mentor.

WIS International considers itself a people company and prides itself on having a diverse workforce with an accessible and welcoming workplace.

Historically, disabled individuals faced many hurdles when looking for employment. But today’s hiring managers recognize that people with disabilities bring valuable skills and perspectives to the job.

Finding the value in every person – that’s the mission statement at Grebe’s Bakery, an equal-opportunity employer beloved by the communities they serve in the Greater Milwaukee area.

Our identities are often shaped not only by how we see ourselves, but by how we are seen and acknowledged by others. For many of us, our identities are almost entirely formed using the names or titles we’re given in our personal and professional lives.

This year – 2020 – marks the 30th anniversary of the passage of the Americans With Disabilities Act, which ensures people with disabilities have equal opportunities for transportation, use of facilities, public accommodations, and, of course, employment. At Goodwill, we’re celebrating by bringing the advantages of hiring workers with disabilities to the forefront.

So – you followed our resume tips and tricks and landed a new job using our top career tips. Congratulations! Now is the time to impress your boss and coworkers with both your skills and professionalism. The sudden move from an in-person workplace to a virtual one doesn’t mean professionalism fades away. What it does mean is shifting the way we approach work. You may have sweatpants on during that Zoom call with your coworkers, but it doesn’t mean you can’t – and shouldn’t – maintain professional behavior.

Three major ways we’ve seen our lives shift to the virtual world is by increased emails, phone calls and video chats. Each form of communication comes with its own concerns for maintaining the same level of professionalism you’re used to in the office.