Creating an inclusive work environment for persons with disabilities is not just about providing additional facilities—it requires a comprehensive understanding of their diverse and specific needs. Practical accommodations impact not only comfort but also productivity and employee loyalty.

Here are several comprehensive strategies companies can implement to provide appropriate workplace accommodations:

1. Understand the Legal Framework as a Foundation

The first step is understanding the regulations that serve as both a legal and ethical guide. Indonesia’s Law No. 8 of 2016 on Persons with Disabilities, along with relevant guidelines from the Ministry of Manpower, requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations. This includes physical accessibility, accessible information, and reasonable adjustments to the job process. These legal frameworks serve as the foundation for internal policies.

2. Increase Literacy on Types of Disabilities and Their Implications at Work

Each type of disability has different needs. Understanding these differences is key to providing the right accommodations. Some examples include:

  • Blind/Low Vision: screen readers, accessible digital documents or applications, and tactile indicators like guiding blocks in the workplace.

  • Physical disabilities: adjustable desks, ramps, and accessible elevators.

  • Deaf/Hard of Hearing: sign language interpreters, written texts, or visual aids.

  • Intellectual or psychosocial disabilities: clear communication, structured routines, and social support from colleagues.

This knowledge helps prevent generic solutions and ensures accommodations are tailored and effective.

3. Engage in Open Communication with Employees with Disabilities

Avoid making assumptions. Instead, have open conversations with employees about what they need to work optimally. Consistent communication builds trust and fosters a responsive workplace. Often, the best solutions come from simply listening to employees’ lived experiences.

4. Conduct Individual and Structured Accessibility Assessments

Each person has unique needs. Personalized assessments can be conducted through:

  • One-on-one interviews

  • Needs surveys

  • Workplace observation

The results should be well-documented and analyzed as a foundation for designing targeted and effective accommodations.

5. Invest in Inclusion Training for HR and Management

Workshops and training on disability inclusion can equip HR teams and managers with practical skills, such as designing inclusive recruitment processes, providing sensitive feedback, and building diverse teams. These efforts help foster a more adaptive and non-exclusive organizational culture.

6. Pilot and Validate Accommodations

Before applying accommodations on a larger scale, test them with the intended users. Gather direct feedback: Does the tool or facility truly help? Are there any challenges?

For example, an application designed to be accessible might not yet work well with screen readers due to technical barriers. Testing helps avoid waste and ensures efficiency.

7. Conduct Regular Evaluation and Adjustment

Employee needs can change over time due to advancements in technology, shifts in job roles, or changes in individual health. Conduct regular evaluations (e.g., every six months) to ensure accommodations remain relevant and effective. Involve employees with disabilities in the process to keep their voices central to every decision.

Workplace accommodation is not about giving special treatment, but about ensuring equal access for everyone to perform at their best. Companies that implement accommodations effectively not only comply with the law but also demonstrate leadership in promoting diversity, innovation, and employee well-being.

Join DNetwork in creating a more inclusive work environment through educational programs on how to provide appropriate accommodations for employees with disabilities.

Together, let’s build a fairer, more adaptive, and inclusive workplace.

#WorkplaceInclusion #AccommodationStrategies #DisabilityInclusion #DNetworkForCompanies

🌟 Hi DNetwork Friends!
Are you preparing to enter the workforce? If so, there are two important things you must master, especially as a person with a disability. These two essentials are hard skills and soft skills. You may have heard of them before, but do you truly understand what they mean and why they matter?

Let’s talk about them together.

Understanding Hard Skills and Soft Skills

Hard skills are technical abilities that you can learn through training, courses, school, or hands-on experience. These skills are usually directly related to specific jobs and can be measured or proven. For example: fast and accurate typing, operating a computer, sewing, repairing electronic devices, graphic design, accounting, or coding.
In other words, hard skills are proof that you have the technical competence needed to perform specific tasks at work.

Meanwhile, soft skills are non-technical abilities related to how you behave, think, and interact with others. These include communication, teamwork, discipline, positive thinking, and mental resilience in facing pressure or challenges.
Unlike hard skills, which are measurable, soft skills are harder to observe directly, but their impact in the workplace is significant. Soft skills help you grow, adapt, and work effectively in a professional environment.

Why Are Both Important?

Having hard skills alone isn’t enough. Many people are technically skilled but struggle to grow because they can’t collaborate, lack confidence, or have poor communication skills.
On the other hand, having only soft skills also isn’t sufficient if you don’t yet have the technical abilities required for a specific job.

That’s why a balance between hard and soft skills is so important. They complement each other and together shape you into someone who is ready for work and growth. Hard skills make you competent; soft skills make you adaptable.

Theory Isn’t Enough

As a person with a disability, understanding the theory alone is not enough. You also need to experience the real working world, because many things can only be learned through practice.
When you enter the workplace, you’ll encounter real-life situations that you may have never faced before.
You’ll learn to overcome self-doubt. If you’ve mostly interacted within disability-only environments—like schools or communities—you might feel awkward or insecure in a professional setting. But by experiencing the workplace firsthand, you’ll grow stronger mentally.

You’ll also learn how to communicate with colleagues and supervisors. Workplace communication is often different from casual social settings. You’ll learn to be more professional, respect time and structure, and understand workplace culture.
You'll face real challenges—things you won’t encounter in simulations or training sessions. These challenges build your resilience and adaptability. And sometimes, it’s through these experiences that you discover hidden potential within yourself.

Start with Small Steps

Now that you understand the importance of skills and real experience, it’s time to move forward.
You can start by joining job training programs that match your interests and talents. When you choose something you're passionate about, learning feels more enjoyable and relevant—whether it’s tech, customer service, crafts, or the arts.

Next, try to get an internship, even a short one. Internships are gateways to the real professional world. You'll get to understand work rhythms, learn responsibility, and practice socialising with coworkers in real situations. This experience is extremely valuable, even if you're still learning.

You can also get involved in communities and professional networks. A community like DNetwork is not just a place to share information, but a place to grow together. You can learn from others who’ve been on this path, find mentors, or even discover job and training opportunities.

Most importantly, don’t wait to be perfect to start. Begin building your career now. Try freelance work, join small projects, or volunteer in community activities. Don’t be afraid to fail—failure is not the end, but a part of the learning journey.

You’re Not Alone

DNetwork is here to support you every step of the way. We believe that every person with a disability has the potential to succeed—if given the right opportunities and support. An inclusive workforce is our shared right.

📲 Discover training, internships, and the latest job info at DNetwork.
💡 Start small, and believe that every step you take matters.

#DNetwork #PeopleWithDisabilitiesCanWork #HardSkillSoftSkill #InclusiveCareer #DisabilityTraining #DisabilityInternship #OpportunitiesForAll #InclusionIsReal

Hi DNetwork Friends!
An inclusive job interview isn’t just about accepting applicants from diverse backgrounds — it’s about ensuring every step of the hiring process is fair and accessible, especially for persons with disabilities. Here are 6 practical tips for HR teams to create a more inclusive and meaningful interview experience:

1️⃣ Understand the Disability and Access Needs
Before the interview, learn about the applicant’s type of disability so you can prepare the right support — such as a wheelchair-accessible space, a guide, or assistive communication tools. If you're unsure, don’t hesitate to ask the applicant directly about their access needs.

2️⃣ Focus on Skills, Not Physical Conditions
Assess the applicant based on their competencies, experience, and potential — not their disability. People with disabilities have the same abilities and potential as others if given an equal opportunity.

3️⃣ Use Accessible Communication Channels
Send interview invitations using platforms that are easy to access. Use clear, concise language to ensure understanding — especially for applicants with cognitive, sensory, or visual impairments.

4️⃣ Prepare an Accessible and Friendly Interview Location
Choose a venue that is free from physical barriers — such as step-free access, wheelchair paths, guiding blocks, or ground-floor rooms. Provide assistance or interpreters when needed, especially for Deaf or blind candidates.

5️⃣ Address Concerns Directly During the Interview
If you have any concerns about how the applicant would perform in the role, talk about it openly during the interview. Give them a chance to explain how they work and the support tools they typically use.

6️⃣ Conduct a Simple Skill Test If Needed
If you still have doubts, provide a short, relevant task or test to directly assess the applicant's abilities. Make sure the test is also accessible and supports assistive technologies if required.

By applying these steps, companies can build a fairer and more inclusive hiring process that respects diversity.
Need more guidance? Feel free to contact DNetwork for support in building a more inclusive recruitment process 💙

 

Hello DNetwork friends!

Job interviews are very important. They can decide if you get the job or not.

Your CV and cover letter are important. But how you talk in the interview is just as important. In the interview, the company wants to know:

  • Who are you?

  • Can you communicate well?

  • Are you ready to work?

For persons with disabilities, interviews may feel hard. But don’t worry! If you prepare and feel confident, you can do it!

Here are simple tips to help you do better in a job interview:


1. Join Job Interview Training

Training helps you get ready. There are many trainings for persons with disabilities, including from DNetwork. You can learn:

  • How to answer questions

  • How to be more confident

  • Practice interviews


2. Practice Common Questions

Some questions are very common. For example:

  • “Tell me about yourself.”

  • “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”

  • “Why do you want to work here?”

Practice answering these. Speak clearly, briefly, and with confidence.


3. Wear Neat and Formal Clothes

First impressions matter. Wear clean, formal, and comfortable clothes. It shows you respect the interview.


4. Be Confident

Try to stay calm and confident. If you're nervous, take a deep breath. Remember: the interview is also your chance to see if the company fits you.


5. Focus on Your Skills

Don't feel shy because of your disability. What matters is:

  • You have skills

  • You have work spirit

  • You can contribute

Talk more about what you can do, not your disability.


6. Share Your Experiences

Use the interview to tell stories about:

  • Past jobs

  • Trainings you joined

  • Projects you worked on

This helps the interviewer understand your abilities.


7. Explain How You Work

If the interviewer doesn't understand your disability, it’s okay to explain. Tell them:

  • How you work

  • What assistive tools you use (screen reader, cane, wheelchair, etc.)

This helps the company know how to support you better.


Conclusion

Job interviews can feel scary. But they are also a big opportunity. Show them:

  • You are ready

  • You believe in yourself

  • You have great skills

You have strong potential. Don’t be afraid. Keep learning and go for your dreams!


Join DNetwork!
We have training programs, CV consultations, and job info for persons with disabilities.

As we all know, the COVID-19 pandemic has made a huge impact on society. The disability community is one of the most affected. The increasingly limited access to various things, including work, is a formidable challenge and indicates that the movement to create an inclusive society in Indonesia has a long way to go.

DNetwork – Jaringan Kerja Disabilitas is committed to continue to be part of the movement towards inclusive society, especially in terms of employment. Even though throughout 2020 the level of disability employment has dropped dramatically, DNetwork hopes that the beginning of 2021 will bring new enthusiasm for companies and the business sector to boost their inclusivity.

Therefore, in November 2020 DNetwork launched the #KantorRamahDisabilitas (disability friendly offices) campaign via social media consisting of encouragement for companies to build an inclusive work environment, educational materials on how to work with various types of disabilities, inspiring stories from employees with disabilities and inclusive companies, as well as webinars on similar themes.

The Aku Mampu program, which was initiated by DNetwork - Jaringan Kerja Disabilitas supported by YSEALI Seeds for the Future, has entered its second phase which focuses on the entrepreneurship theme, with the title "Aku Mampu Berbisnis". This program is in line with the increasing number of people with disabilities turning to entrepreneurship during the COVID-19 pandemic and considering the large opportunities in this field. DNetwork chose Femalepreneur Indonesia, an entrepreneurial learning forum with community members of more than 3,000 entrepreneurs throughout the nation, as a partner who provides modules and mentors to run this program.

In “Aku Mampu Berbisnis”, there are three main activities for people with disabilities who own businesses. First, the Zoom class which is divided into four sessions over two weeks. The four classes are themed; Entrepreneurial Mindset, Business Planning, Prototyping & Product Testing, and Marketing Through Text and Images. Second, online mentoring via WhatsApp where all participants are allowed to ask questions and consult about their business every evening for two hours. Third, the selection of the five best participants to receive intensive mentoring for business development and small grant as a business capital of Rp 2,000,000 each. Activities have started at the end of October 2020, attended by more than 70 business owners with disabilities, and will last until early December 2020.

After successfully holding five online classes for persons with disabilities, as a part of the Aku Mampu program, DNetwork also conducted various outreach to the wider community regarding disability issues, especially those related to employment. The socialization was carried out in various ways and targets different audiences. Even so, the goal was one; to raise public awareness of the importance of collaboration in creating an inclusive society.

All socialization activities were held online, in collaboration with various parties. On Tuesday (29/9), DNetwork explained about job opportunities for Indonesians with disabilities in front of the South Tangerang City government, all heads of city agencies, sub-district heads, and representatives of the disability community in an event held by the South Tangerang City Development Planning Agency (Bappeda). Then, Sunday (4/10), DNetwork had a fruitful discussion with the Special Education students from UNS. Meanwhile, on Monday (5/10), DNetwork was interviewed by Denpasar City Public Radio in a live broadcast that highlighted the inclusivity issue.

DNetwork also hopes to reach more layers of society to be more aware of disability issues. Therefore, campaigns through social media are also carried out regularly. Arrohma Sukma, a woman with a disability who is known to the public as a mountain climber and entrepreneur, is recruited by DNetwork as an ambassador for Aku Mampu who will help to amplify the messages brought by DNetwork.

One of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic is the changing in the world of work; from the reduction of employees in many business lines due to the company's economic downturn, to the shifting of many aspects of the company to digital format. Even when the business world has gradually moved towards the "new normal", these changes have brought the world of work to deeper problems, especially for job seekers with disabilities; an explosion in the number of job seekers which makes the job market competition very tight and the increasing demands for mastery of digital skills that so far have not been taught in special needs schools (SLB) or independent courses.

Responding to this challenge, DNetwork comes up with a new program entitled Aku Mampu (means “I am capable”), which is supported by the Young South East Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) Seeds for the Future. Aku Mampu aims to help job seekers with disabilities develop their skills and knowledge to align with current career opportunities. Through this program, DNetwork equips job seekers with disabilities with job preparation modules that are available in various formats (text, audio, and Indonesian Sign Language video) and are free to download. There will also be a series of online classes which aim to thoroughly elaborate all the material in the module. Modules cover many things, from exploring one’s interests and talents, tips and tricks on making a good CV and handling job interviews, to A-Z about freelancing and entrepreneurship. Aku Mampu is to run from August to December.