Barriers to Employment
By Natasha Pereira
What is an Employment Barrier?
A condition that can be physical, mental, or a personal situation that prevents a person from finding employment. Although barriers can make finding employment difficult, there are many ways to overcome these barriers.
Types of Barriers:
Mental Health
Little work experience
Lack of information about Canadian Labour Market
Lack of transportation
Language barriers
Housing issues
Child care
Lack of employment skills
Overqualified for work, but credentials don't match
Age
Non-effective job search skills
Lacks soft skills
Legal issues
Burnout
Immigration status
Addressing the Barrier:
Identify the barrier
Do you have a barrier to employment? What is it?
Get some perspective
Now that you have identified your barrier, it is time to accept it. Notice what it is, and realize that you can adapt with it.
Realistic Solutions
Now that you know what barrier you have, you have accepted it, it is time to find a solution & get resources.
Asking for Help
It is important to understand that there are many free and affordable resources, it is your job to go out and seek and ask for the guidance that you need. There is no shame is upgrading your life and improving for the better. Barriers are often implemented due to lack of understanding. People don't completely comprehend their advantages and disadvantages and they don't realize this can also affect employment. A positive attitude is key, along with community agencies and support services. You can also seek assistance from counselling services, rehab if necessary, support, trainings, workshops, etc.