How can you network with people who have disabilities?

1 Understand disability etiquette

One of the first steps to network with people who have disabilities is to learn some basic disability etiquette, which is a set of guidelines and best practices to communicate and interact with people who have different types of disabilities. Disability etiquette can help you avoid common mistakes and assumptions, and show respect and sensitivity to the preferences and needs of people who have disabilities. Some examples of disability etiquette are: asking before offering help, using person-first or identity-first language, respecting personal space and equipment, and avoiding stereotypes and pity.

2 Find common interests and goals

Another important step to network with people who have disabilities is to find common interests and goals that can help you build rapport and trust. Networking is not only about exchanging information and contacts, but also about sharing values and passions. People who have disabilities are not defined by their disability, but by their personality, skills, hobbies, and aspirations. Therefore, you should try to find out what motivates and inspires them, what they enjoy doing, and what they want to achieve. By doing so, you can establish a genuine connection and mutual support.

3 Seek out diverse and inclusive spaces

A third step to network with people who have disabilities is to seek out diverse and inclusive spaces where you can meet and interact with them. These can be online or offline platforms, events, groups, or organizations that are designed or adapted to accommodate the accessibility and participation of people who have disabilities. For example, you can join disability-related forums, podcasts, blogs, or social media accounts, attend disability-focused webinars, workshops, or conferences, or volunteer for disability advocacy or service projects. These spaces can help you learn more about the disability community and culture, and expand your network.

5 Follow up and maintain contact

A fifth step to network with people who have disabilities is to follow up and maintain contact with them. Networking is not a one-time event, but a long-term relationship that requires effort and commitment. You should make sure to follow up with the people who have disabilities that you met or connected with, and express your appreciation and interest in staying in touch. You can also send them relevant information, opportunities, or invitations that might benefit them, or ask them for feedback, advice, or referrals. You should also check in with them regularly, and show your support and recognition for their achievements.

6 Promote accessibility and inclusion

A sixth step to network with people who have disabilities is to promote accessibility and inclusion in your own network and environment. Networking with people who have disabilities is not only about benefiting yourself, but also about contributing to the empowerment and visibility of the disability community. You can do this by raising awareness and educating others about disability issues, advocating for disability rights and policies, supporting disability initiatives and causes, and creating or improving accessibility and inclusion in your workplace, organization, or community. By doing so, you can become an ally and a leader for disability inclusion.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?