Your First Job: A Deaf Youth’s Guide to Confidence, Communication, and Success
Starting your first job is exciting – and a bit nerve-wracking! You’re stepping into a new world of schedules, coworkers, and responsibilities. As a Deaf teen, you have unique strengths (like being bilingual in ASL and written English) and know-how that can set you apart. Remember: being Deaf is a cultural identity, not a limitation. With the right mindset and resources, you can shine at work.
Here are five practical tips to help you prepare for and succeed at your first job:
Communicate Your Needs Early. Let your boss and coworkers know how you best communicate. Do you use ASL, lip-reading, written notes, or a combination? It’s totally OK to explain your preferences. For example, one Deaf professional taught her colleagues to face her when speaking, and to text or email her instead of calling her on the phone – and she says these “little things… made a big difference”. You might even design a small sign or card (or friendly T‑shirt) that says “Please face me” or “Ask me in writing”, if that makes it easier. The goal is to make everyday communication as clear as possible.
Ask for Accommodations and Practice Self-Advocacy. Under the law, you have a right to communication access. During your interview or once you’re hired, you can request services like an ASL interpreter, CART (live captioning), or assistive technology. Don’t be shy about it – it’s your right and it helps everyone do their best. For example, before an interview, you (or an adult) can let HR know you’d like an interpreter present. At work, explain what you need: one Deaf employee shared how her employer “let me do deaf awareness training,” and afterward coworkers knew to always get her attention first and use text/email for messages.
Prepare for the Interview. Treat your interview like any other person would: research the company, practice answers to common questions, and plan for communication. If you use ASL, make sure to request an interpreter in advance. Write down or print your answers if you think that might help in a pinch. You can also include your relevant experience and skills strongly in your resume. (One Deaf young employee decided not to list “Deaf” on her resume, and instead mentioned it in the interview – her manager “was fine with it” and cared most about her portfolio.) During the interview, try to relax, smile, and let your personality show. It’s OK to say “Could you please repeat that?” or ask the interviewer to face you. These steps will help you make a great first impression.
Boost Your Confidence and Embrace Your Identity. Remember that your Deaf identity is a source of pride! As the NAD reminds us, “being deaf is not a disability but rather a cultural identity”. Draw confidence from examples of other Deaf achievers. Consider this short success story: Maya is a Deaf high-schooler who got a part-time job at a local bookstore. She told her manager she reads lips best, so coworkers learned to stand in front of her when talking. Maya also used her phone to text quick questions to colleagues instead of using a phone. In a few weeks, Maya was greeting customers with a big smile and even taught her coworkers a few ASL signs for store lingo. She’s proud to be herself at work and sees challenges as chances to educate others. This could be your story too! As one Deaf blogger puts it: “Keep your head high, celebrate your hearing aids or cochlear implants as part of your style, and use your unique perspective as a strength.”
Use Resources and Networks. There are many resources to help Deaf youth find jobs and build careers. Check out the NAD’s Employment Resource Center (NERC) – it’s “dedicated to promoting improved employment of deaf and hard of hearing people”. NAD’s website lists job boards and career tools, including Deaf-friendly sites like DeafJobWizard.com and CSDWorks. These niche job boards only list positions that may require ASL or Deaf skills (so employers are already more aware). You should also investigate your state’s resources – for example, state Deaf & Hard of Hearing Commissions (like Massachusetts’s MCDHH) provide advocacy and communication access services. Schools and vocational rehabilitation programs often have transition coordinators who can help Deaf students find internships or first jobs. Don’t forget community groups – local Deaf clubs, Deaf youth leadership programs, or even a coach or teacher you trust can offer advice and support.
Some key organizations and supports: The National Association of the Deaf (NAD) has youth programs, career resources, and advocacy (see NAD Youth, NADLawCenter, etc.). The National Deaf Center (NDC) offers transition-to-work guidance and data. There are national Deaf culture organizations and conferences to meet Deaf role models. And apps like AVA (captioning) or Video Relay Service (VRS) can help with hearing-centric tasks. In short, you have a whole community rooting for your success.
“If other deaf young people are worried about working in an office, I’d say don’t let your deafness stop you from doing anything. … Try and be confident and show them what you can do.”
Your first job is just one step on your journey. With preparation, self-advocacy, and pride in who you are, you’ll be ready to tackle that first day and every day after with confidence. You belong in any workplace you choose – you have the skills, you have the community, and now you have the tools to succeed.
References:
S Letter in ASL
“Deaf people can achieve anything they dream of, given the right support.”
“If other deaf young people are worried about working in an office, I’d say don’t let your deafness stop you from doing anything. … Try and be confident and show them what you can do.”
