Disability

Etiquette in the
Workplace
H OW T O E FFE C T IVE LY C O M M UN IC AT E W ITH
E M P LOY E E S W IT H D ISAB IL ITIE S

An overview of the basics of disability etiquette

DO:
Use person-first language. Instead of Bob is autistic or Marty is
wheelchair bound, say Bob has autism or Marty uses a
wheelchair.
Speak directly to the person, rather than through an interpreter or
friend.
Make eye contact with the person, regardless of the disability.
Ask before you help; the person will request assistance when
needed.

 Focus on abilities; what a person can do rather than what

a person cannot do.
Respect the persons independence; allow them to do
what they are able to do. This includes making decisions.
Respect the persons privacy. Some individuals may not
be comfortable disclosing their disability.
Treat people with disabilities just as you would anyone
else.

DO NOT:
Assume the persons needs or abilities
Stereotype individuals in light of their
disability. A disability does not define a
person.
Refer to the person as special needs,
handicapped, suffering, or a hero.

Communicating With Employees

With Speech and Cognitive
The majority Disabilities
of individuals do not have a
cognitive disorder, but rather a delay in
processing speech

DO:
Listen patiently.
Use clear language and speak slowly.
Give extra time to process information.
Find a quite place away from usual work
environment to discuss important issues

 Ask the person to repeat what they said,

slower, louder, etc., if needed.
If you still cannot understand what the
employee has said ask them to write or type
what they said to indicate you understand
them.

Do Not:

Finish the persons sentences

Rush the person
Pretend to understand something if you dont

Part 2 of this presentation will

include:
How to communicate with individuals who use
a wheelchair
Employees with Haring Impairment
Employees with Vision Impairment

Employer Resources for additional

information and training topics related to
employees with disabilities
Diversity World Website
EARN- Employer Assistance & Resources
Network
JAN- Job Accommodation Network

 40% of employed people with disabilities report they

have encountered job discrimination?

Did you
Know?
THE POWER OF
ATTIUDINAL
BARRIERS

33% of employed people with disabilities report they

have encountered unfavorable attitudes toward
their disabilities on the job?
22% of employers cite supervisor/co-worker attitudes
and stereotypes as a major barrier to employment
and advancement of employees with disabilities?
15% of non-disabled people report they do not feel
comfortable working for, or nearby a person with a
disability?
It is no wonder that most places of employment are
not effective at hiring/retaining employees with
disabilities. The 10 Commandments of
Communicating with People with Disabilities
Diversity World Website

Cindy Keele
Community Entry Services
Supported Employment
Coordinator
ckeele@ces-usa.com
307-856-5576