The power of the employment specialist: Skills that impact outcomes

Abstract

Employment specialists have the power to facilitate and change the course of a person's life. Challenged with juggling sizeable caseloads, changing schedules, administrative tasks, and implementing a diverse set of skills and competencies, it can be difficult for the professional to provide the best supports for each supported employee. In an attempt to bridge the gap between research and practice, this article presents accessible, easily understood concepts to consider when facilitating positive outcomes for supported employees. OBJECTIVE: Identify relatable, teachable, and usable concepts that guide employment specialist actions for optimal outcomes. METHODS: Strategies, interventions, and competencies were compiled for employment specialists to consider when supporting a job seeker to secure employment. Guidelines were identified through research and experience in the field. RESULTS: Best practices are presented in four 'rules' to guide employment specialists and managers in evaluating and monitoring their actions while working with supported employees. CONCLUSIONS: Employment specialists may use these relatable 'rules' to evaluate their actions and incorporate best practices that support optimal outcomes.