Challenges and Benefits of Employing and Working with Persons with Disabilities: Perspectives of Employers and Supervisors

Abstract

Work is vital for people with disabilities, most researchers attempted to investigate why work is important and why so few PWDs are included in the labor force, according to perspectives of PWDs. However, little is known about what employers are looking for. The purpose of this study was to provide a plausible answer as to why employers should hire PWDs, as well as the challenges and benefits of employing PWDs from the perspective of employers. This descriptive study employed a thematic analysis of ten semi-structured interviews. A total of ten human resource managers and supervisors working with employees with disabilities participated in this study. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, translated into English, coded, categorized, and analyzed for essential themes. The finding revealed that employers often do not consider the benefits of employing and working with PWDs due to negative attitudes, the need for accommodation, sick leaves, and permissions often asked by their employers. Employing PWDs is beneficial not only to the PWDs but also to employers, co-workers, and clients. It allows the employing organization to improve or build its image. It imprints a positive image of employers; it envisages equality, non-discrimination, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace. On the other hand, it also gives a sense of equity and good emotional and spiritual satisfaction for customers, clients, co-workers, and employers. According to this study, hiring and working with people with disabilities has several advantages, including the fact that labor market mobility for people with physical disabilities is very limited, and PWDs are loyal, honest, humble, resilient, vibrant, hardworking, and responsible individuals, all of which benefit employers. Employers with disabilities take their jobs seriously; they are responsible and dependable. This article suggests that employers should hire PWDS by providing reasonable accommodation and adaptation in recruitment and employment, and employers should respect the employment rights of workers with disabilities.