How to successfully negotiate customized jobs for people with disabilities: A practical guide for employers working with intermediaries
Academic Publications
Author(s): Ho, J. A., Bonaccio, S., Connelly, C. E., Gellatly, I. R.
Date: 2026
Resource: Organizational Dynamics.
Job customization can be used as a tool by employers to create an inclusive workplace, in particular for people with disabilities. To be successful, customized jobs must address the business needs of the organization in addition to aligning with the capabilities, interests, and needs of the person with disabilities. In this article we focus on the employer perspective to explain the key role played by intermediaries, such as employment specialists and job coaches, in negotiating customized jobs for people with disabilities. Considering their expertise and training, intermediaries are uniquely positioned to support employers in achieving their strategic goals for inclusive hiring and refining their work design practices to ensure optimal person-job fit. However, we recognize that the success of a customized job negotiation remains conditional on the actions of the employer. Specifically, we identify seven actionable recommendations for employers to implement before negotiating, during negotiations, and after negotiating a customized job. When this list of “dos and don’ts” is followed, these guidelines allow employers to foster inclusive and productive workplaces and enhance employment outcomes for people with disabilities.
Go to article View all resourcesRelated Research Areas: Disability in the Workplace