The holiday season offers more than a break from routine—it presents meaningful opportunities to build skills and explore future possibilities. From discovering what kind of work sparks interest to preparing for the next step in employment or supporting a student’s journey, everyday moments during the holidays can help advance employment goals. At BCI, we believe these real-life experiences are an essential part of employment preparation, happening far beyond the walls of the workplace.
For Students: Tips to Turn Your Downtime into Pre-Employment Training
Preparing for competitive integrated employment is all about opportunity. You don’t need to be at work (or at school!) to start building the skills inclusive employers are looking for. The holiday break is a great time to discover career paths and learn more about job skills training for adults with disabilities.
- Interview People You Know. Ask relatives, family friends, or neighbors about their jobs. These conversations can help you understand roles in a variety of employment settings.
- Job Shadow. Spend a few hours with someone at their workplace. Even a short visit could introduce you to real-world integrated employment environments.
- Watch “Day in the Life” Videos. These DITL videos provide insight into daily tasks and expectations, supporting early career exploration and employment readiness.
- Build Your Communication Skills. Strong communication is essential for success in an inclusive workplace. Get comfortable asking questions and speaking clearly and politely.
- Work on Time Management. Plan your week and practice being on time. This is an essential skill in any career, including organizational employment.
- Engage in Teamwork. Collaborate on holiday preparations. Dividing tasks and working toward shared goals reflects real workplace teamwork. Help troubleshoot when things go wrong and work together to find solutions.
- Think About Customer Service. Notice how workers interact with customers when shopping or dining. Customer service skills are valuable in many integrated employment opportunities.
- Practice Talking About Yourself. Spend time thinking about your strengths and interests. Use statements like “I’m really good at staying organized,” or “I enjoy helping people.”
For Adult Clients: How to Keep Up the Momentum in Your Job Search
Job opportunities for adults with disabilities are available, even if it feels like everything stops during the holidays. Stay connected to your job search and use this time to practice and prepare. Preparation builds confidence and supports long-term employment success.
- Update Your Resume. Include recent volunteer work, job skills training, or new skills that support competitive employment.
- Reach Out to Your Network. Contact former coworkers, supervisors, or employment specialists to let them know you’re interested in a work program or competitive employment opportunity.
- Research Companies. Identify businesses that value inclusive and integrated employment and learn about their mission and culture.
- Practice Interviewing. Look up common interview questions. Ask a family member or friend if they’re willing to do a mock interview so that you can practice your answers out loud.
- Make a Schedule or Routine. Establishing a consistent schedule with reliable transportation helps prepare for long-term job success. Research transit options and plan your routes.
- Take Free Online Courses. Platforms like YouTube, LinkedIn Learning, and local library programs offer valuable job-related training.
- Volunteer. Volunteering builds references, enhances resumes, and sometimes leads to paid integrated employment opportunities.
- Talk About Strengths & Accommodations. Knowing what you need and being able to explain it to potential employers are strengths. Visit the Job Accommodation Network (JAN) to learn more.
BCI Provides Year-Round Job Opportunities for Adults with Disabilities
This holiday season, we’re grateful for all of the individuals who trust us with their goals, the families who partner with us in this work, and the community partners who create opportunity, one job at a time.
If you’re interested in learning more about our services or how BCI can support you, reach out anytime. We’re here.
Happy Holidays from the BCI Team!