Injured Workers Need Guidance to Return to Work

January, 2012  

By Mary Sherwood Sevinsky

Job seekers with a work injury need career guidance to address issues only they experience due to their unique situation.  I recently asked the injured workers I am currently assisting to complete a brief survey about their job search concerns.  They were asked to list three answers for each question.  

Of special note, one of my clients wrote, "I feel there should be a website for mature adults who have worked all their lives.  Give us a chance."  Very moving....There was no way I could turn my back on this request.

Here is what I asked my current clients:

        What do you miss about working?

        What are some of your biggest job search obstacles?

        What are your biggest job search fears?

Most of the answers were along the lines of what I expected to hear - I have been counseling injured workers for a long time...   I want to assure you that you are not alone and what you are feeling is entirely normal!

Here are some of the answers I got to my brief survey:

What do you miss about working?

• Being out in public and seeing people
• Filling up my day with different activities
• Earning money, having freedom and independence
• Having something to look forward to
• Doing something I'm good at

What are some of your biggest job search obstacles? 

• Use of my injured body part
• Memory and concentration
• Lack of skills
• Finding a job in a new field or industry
• Age

What are your biggest job search fears?

• Not being able to do the job
• Interviewing
• Not being able to make enough money
• Not being hired
• Learning new skills

It is hard enough to look for and find work, but to add another obstacle such as a work related injury just makes it that much more difficult. There are steps you can take to overcome your concerns, obstacles, and even your biggest job search fears.  

Members can find out how you can:

• Determine your current skills and abilities
• Plan a modified or new career path
• Identify and obtain the skills you need to get a job
• Learn how to look for work after an injury
• Resume a happy, healthy, rewarding lifestyle 

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