In today’s ever-changing employment market, the demand for certain skill sets is directly correlated to the rapid pace of technology development, demographic shifts in the workforce population, and global economic cycles. For disabled employees who are preparing to return to the workforce, the change in the employment market can mean that there is a lack of job opportunities that directly match the employee’s skill set.
In these cases, alternative job opportunities may lead the employee to a related position, to an entirely new field, or even to a different industry – which often requires some specialized return to work training. Despite the need for extra training, injured employees looking to re-enter the workforce shouldn’t limit their options based on their skill set, and instead should consider their transferable skills that may be applied to occupations with higher labor demand.
By working with vocational consultants as a part of the return to work program, employees and employers can not only find the best employment fit, but obtain the training needed to make a successful transition into a long-term position.
Vocational Consultants
A vocational consultant works with injured employees, lawyers, courts, public agencies, and employers as necessary to provide information about job opportunities, income potential, and loss of income due to a number of employment limitations (including physical, emotional, and educational limitations).
Labor Market Survey and Transferable Skills Analysis
Vocational consultants use tools like labor market surveys and transferable skills analysis to help successfully place return to work employees. A labor market survey identifies companies that hire the same occupation as the return to work employee within the local commuting area, while a transferable skills analysis compares an applicant’s skills set from his/her work experience with the job description of the position.
Return to Work Training and Job Development
Return to work employees who require specialized training have options, including home-based employment and on-the-job training to make the transition as smooth as possible for all parties.
On-the-job Training
Disabled employees who are beginning a new employment position on-site should receive proper and thorough on-the-job training. This training will encourage long-term success for the employee, and will aid in overall productivity and growth within the position.
Home-based Options
Home-based employment is more common than ever, and has been acknowledged as an ideal return-to-work solution in many cases. Because telecommuting eliminates the need to drive or take public transportation, and better accommodates disabled persons who need to manage doctor’s appointments and medication schedules, many employers now allow disabled employees to work from their homes. Studies suggests that not only does overall employee productivity increase when employees are permitted to work from home, but employers can also save on basic overhead costs and special accommodations.
Find resources and learn more about return to work training here.
At CatalystRTW, our vocational consultants are dedicated to helping your business navigate the return to work process. Call us today at (866) 559-3200 to learn more about how we can assist with your case.
