Appeared in Ability Network, Volume 4, No. 3, Spring 1996
When I awaken in the morning, I find myself contemplating the upcoming events for the day. To get a fresh start, I perform my exercises. This also allows me to become mentally sharp. When my attendants arrive and after everything is all said and done, it is usually 8 a.m. This gives me an opportunity to read the morning paper and become versed on current affairs.
I am an independent consultant. I offer my knowledge and expertise to the Property Casualty and Life Insurance Industry. It is exhilarating to know that you are able to contribute to society and earn enough profit to remain independent. Prior to this, I was the cofounder of a company that developed voice recognition technology.
Working from home has diminished my operating expenses considerably. I no longer have to pay people to transport me to business appointments. My commute time in the morning is approximately 6 seconds from my wheelchair to my desk. Although I still cater to my customers? needs, working from home offers me the benefit of scheduling my own time. If I become tired or feel like I need a break I wheel into my front room, stretch and watch a little TV.
Before I paint a picture that is all roses, let me state that none of this would be possible without technology. When an insurance company, a lawyer or a health care professional requires my services, I must respond instantly to ensure that I can successfully meet their needs. As a high level quadriplegic, this would be almost impossible without the proper resources. When working for someone else, human resources helped me remain competitive. Technology has enabled me to become more self-sufficient. My computer is equipped with voice recognition; consequently, any correspondence, including this article, is composed by speaking to my system. Within my computer I have a fax/modem that allows me to send my correspondence to customers. The modem with the appropriate software has opened up the Internet.
There is a vast amount of possibilities. For example, most human resources departments have an e-mail address. I have been able to market my services by sending my resume and promotional information to human resources departments for contracts. If needed, my laser jet printer creates professional looking reports that win brownie points with my clientele. With my surround sound stereo, I am able to void my mind when needed and take breaks.
I cannot emphasize enough how this has made a profound change in my life. By becoming more self-sufficient, I have improved my self-esteem. There is less pressure on my attendants to perform. They can focus on getting me up and dressed, and spend less time with the physical assistance of running my business. For those readers who have attendants, I'm sure you can appreciate this advantage. It provides me with more free time.
Consequently, it has allowed me to assume the responsibility of Business Development Manager for Robert Cotes & Associates. After attending the Personal Empowerment Training it became obvious that effective communication skills are essential for people with disabilities to succeed in business. It has also enabled me to become the founder of Entrepreneurship for People with Disabilities (EFP). When assisting individuals after an accident, it is imperative to have a goal. Working from home with my technology has put me in a position to supplement my services. The Personal Empowerment Training and pooling resources offers a better service to insurance companies.
After my accident, there was no road map to success. It is my intention to share some experiences to offer alternatives to individuals in a similar circumstance. People with disabilities will be taken seriously when they have purchasing power. When enough people with disabilities become employed there will be a fundamental shift in treatment. Service providers, will become just that.
So you may just want to consider working from home!
(The EFP no longer exists and the Personal Empowerment Training has become orientated towards corporations; however, I still work from home. Dated February 27, 2000)
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