Blind and Visually Impaired Community
↑
14
↓
Career advice for visually impaired (self.Blind)
submitted by gcualum
Looking for some career advice and suggestions. But first here's my brief background: I have worked as a Technical Artist at a major film studio in US for past 9 years. It mostly involved python scripting and troubleshooting for tools used in film production. I have a BS in computer science and an MFA in digital media. I'm currently looking to pivot to a role in Digital Marketing (with elements of Advertising/ Creative Direction). I love branding -- not sure if there are any roles for that.
I am visually impaired and gradually lost my central vision over last 4 years due to a retinal illness called RP. There's currently no cure for it. I'm in my mid 30's. and with low vision, career switch is turning out to be a daunting task. I feel stagnated as a technical artist now and having trouble finding a marketing internship or entry level marketing position. Are there any resources for people with low vision in US to help transition to a new career? Any suggestions are welcome.
Thanks!
I am visually impaired and gradually lost my central vision over last 4 years due to a retinal illness called RP. There's currently no cure for it. I'm in my mid 30's. and with low vision, career switch is turning out to be a daunting task. I feel stagnated as a technical artist now and having trouble finding a marketing internship or entry level marketing position. Are there any resources for people with low vision in US to help transition to a new career? Any suggestions are welcome.
Thanks!
Simpleitts 4 points 3y ago
I have a podcast thAt I ne’er is people who are visually Impaired and have awesome careers.
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lvg-podcast/id1495851770
I am in digital marketing with low vision so it’s doable
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lvg-podcast/id1495851770
I am in digital marketing with low vision so it’s doable
gcualum [OP] 1 points 3y ago
I'll check that out, thanks!
without_nap 2 points 3y ago
I'd suggest checking with your state's commission for the blind or vocational rehab services, if you have them. They might have leads and be able to get you an interview.
fwiw, I also have RP and tried a new thing at the last job interview where I just told them flat-out that I was legally blind -- and got the job!
fwiw, I also have RP and tried a new thing at the last job interview where I just told them flat-out that I was legally blind -- and got the job!
gcualum [OP] 1 points 3y ago
That sounds awesome! Thanks.
greens-s 2 points 3y ago
Each state has a vocational rehabilitation services that will provide the training needed to be an independent blind person. In addition, you will receive career guidance in finding a career that is right for you with your skill set. You wouldn’t necessarily receive “on the job training” for that career but you’d work on understanding how feasible it is to do that job as a blind or visually impaired individual. I’d recommend to google your state’s vocational rehabilitation services and contact them! I wish you the best of luck!
GoingBlindRP0163 1 points 3y ago
Like others are saying, id suggest seeing your states Services for visually impaired people! Im gonna be checking it out because i really dont want to be stuck working in retail, like i want to have a fufilling career!
Also hey, another person with RP! I have a really aggressive form of RP, so im only 18 and i already have little to no functional sight anymore, which sucks but im gonna make the best of it!
Also hey, another person with RP! I have a really aggressive form of RP, so im only 18 and i already have little to no functional sight anymore, which sucks but im gonna make the best of it!
scaram0uche 1 points 3y ago
Recruiter here with a visually impaired family member!
Check out your state's vocational rehab or blind services department to get some advice and experience with assistive technology - this will help you be able to adjust to what you need in your next job.
After you have some idea of what you will need to ask for with accommodations, try applying to the jobs you want. Don't mention you are blind until necessary, usually when scheduling an on-site interview so they can be sure to work with you one what you need (well lit room, no stairs, simpler office tour, etc.) The contact person in HR, recruiting, or the hiring manager should be trained in how to deal with ADA accommodation requirements.
You have experience! You aren't an intern! You aren't entry level! Look for mid-level jobs that need some of your previous skills (art, film studio, entertainment industry, Python understanding) that have marketing aspects. Look at jobs with the title assistant, associate, specialist, and manager and marketing, digital marketing, branding, advertising, creative. Use a Boolean search on Indeed using OR statements and it should pull up lots of jobs with titles of they combo of words.
Check out your state's vocational rehab or blind services department to get some advice and experience with assistive technology - this will help you be able to adjust to what you need in your next job.
After you have some idea of what you will need to ask for with accommodations, try applying to the jobs you want. Don't mention you are blind until necessary, usually when scheduling an on-site interview so they can be sure to work with you one what you need (well lit room, no stairs, simpler office tour, etc.) The contact person in HR, recruiting, or the hiring manager should be trained in how to deal with ADA accommodation requirements.
You have experience! You aren't an intern! You aren't entry level! Look for mid-level jobs that need some of your previous skills (art, film studio, entertainment industry, Python understanding) that have marketing aspects. Look at jobs with the title assistant, associate, specialist, and manager and marketing, digital marketing, branding, advertising, creative. Use a Boolean search on Indeed using OR statements and it should pull up lots of jobs with titles of they combo of words.
gcualum [OP] 1 points 3y ago
Thanks for your advice. I have great peripheral vision, so most people can't even tell I have low vision especially in well lit rooms. As my vision got progressively bad while I was at work, I learned to rely on my phone magnifier. large fonts, higher contrast. and even got a E2 magnifier headset (which unfortunately is too bulky and shaky for regular use). I have visited Lighthouse for the Blind in my city a few times to get anything that could be helpful.
I guess I am just a bit overwhelmed right now. I'll try out indeed search you suggested (I have mostly been relying on Google and LinkedIn job search so far). Also since you are a recruiter yourself. if you know any reliable paid service that can help me setup some job interviews, I am willing to try that too. Thank again for your input.
I guess I am just a bit overwhelmed right now. I'll try out indeed search you suggested (I have mostly been relying on Google and LinkedIn job search so far). Also since you are a recruiter yourself. if you know any reliable paid service that can help me setup some job interviews, I am willing to try that too. Thank again for your input.
scaram0uche 1 points 3y ago
Unless you are an executive level you shouldn't be paying anyone to submit your resume to anything. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is up to date and you can turn on the setting that let's recruiters know you are open to being contacted. Recruiters who want to submit you to jobs will get paid from the employer, never the candidate.
Use Indeed as well - it has a simple interface and still allows Boolean searching for being able to pinpoint your search better. LinkedIn used to but has all but done away with it which means reading through a lot of junk.
Cover letters should be no more than 12 sentences - barely anyone reads them BUT it is useful to note that you are pivoting careers, hence you don't have the typical job titles of the job you are now applying for. Bulk up your resume with metrics, numbers, and stats to catch the eye -- anything to set you apart!
Good luck!
Use Indeed as well - it has a simple interface and still allows Boolean searching for being able to pinpoint your search better. LinkedIn used to but has all but done away with it which means reading through a lot of junk.
Cover letters should be no more than 12 sentences - barely anyone reads them BUT it is useful to note that you are pivoting careers, hence you don't have the typical job titles of the job you are now applying for. Bulk up your resume with metrics, numbers, and stats to catch the eye -- anything to set you apart!
Good luck!
HideoKojimaJr 1 points 3y ago
I’m also 30 with bad vision thinking about switching careers. Just leaving this message here for later.
This nonprofit website is run by volunteers.
Please contribute if you can. Thank you!
Our mission is to provide everyone with access to large-
scale community websites for the good of humanity.
Without ads, without tracking, without greed.
scale community websites for the good of humanity.
Without ads, without tracking, without greed.
©2023 HumbleCat Inc • HumbleCat is a 501(c)3 nonprofit based in Michigan, USA.