In surveys carried out in Canada and in United States, employers of people with intellectual disabilities have noted some common characteristics among these employees;
- Work attendance is high
- Employees are dedicated to their work
- The turn over rate of employees with intellectual disabilities is no higher than other employees performing similar jobs.
- Productivity and initiative is more then satisfactory.
- People with intellectual disabilities are not usually “job hoppers”. They are loyal and hard working employees.
In addition, hiring employees with intellectual disabilities has many advantages for these individuals, including:
- Increases independence
- Provides opportunity to contribute and achieve
- Develop skills, abilities and self esteem
- Provides dignity and self respect
Lastly, hiring workers with an intellectual disability is a visible way to demonstrate business and employer commitment to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Remember that people with disabilities in general make up about 15% of the overall population. People with disabilities and their families, friends, acquaintances are also customers and consumers.
