There are many businesses that employ people with intellectual disabilities. You may be thinking that these business owners offer jobs to intellectually disabled employees out of the goodness of their hearts with little regard to their profits, and perhaps this is sometimes the case. Actually, though, hiring employees with intellectual disabilities is not only a good thing to do–it’s the smart thing to do for your company.

Diversity

Diversity and inclusion are two factors that never hinder a business. If anything, the addition of diversity and inclusion policies correlate with high performance. Businesses that perform highly are two times as likely to implement diversity and inclusion policies as lower performing businesses. So, companies that are intentional about creating a diverse working climate are more likely to become successful.

Low Turnover

Employees with intellectual disabilities tend to have a more positive working experience than other employees. HR departments that implemented inclusive hiring initiatives report 80 percent of supervisors express having a positive working experience with employees with intellectual disabilities. And of course, positive working experiences can result in an employee wanting to stay at a certain job, decreasing the company’s overall spending.

Quality Employees

Successful companies often have employees with specific qualities. Some of these qualities include work quality, motivation, engagement, integration with co-workers, dependability, and attendance. Employees with these characteristics help create a successful business, and these qualities are also desired by companies aiming to become successful. Three-fourths of employees with intellectual disabilities rank as “good” or “very good” in all of these characteristics–making them arguably the perfect employee for any company.

Joey Hale

Joey Hale, an employee at Publix in Birmingham, is the perfect example of someone with a developmental disability doing exceptional work on the job. Hale is known for his hard work, but he’s remembered for his positive disposition. Even when the store is busy and chaotic, Hale always has a smile for his customers. Even with all of the struggles he had to face, Hale still finds the strength to show kindness to the Shelby County community.

Joey Hale is just one example of an employee with an intellectual disability who is a great asset to his employer–and to the community as a whole. When more employers take steps to hire these amazing individuals, the benefits will be obvious as their work ethic and pleasant dispositions attract more and and more customers for the company.

Alabama Council on Developmental Disabilities

The Alabama Council on Developmental Disabilities offers resources for Alabamians with developmental disabilities and their family members. If you would like to learn more about our resources for developmental and/or intellectual disabilities, contact us today.