Tips
During Work
Do you already have a job? Are you starting a new role, or do you require workplace adjustments? Then you will find useful tips here:
- Communicating Your Impairment
- Workplace Adjustments
- First Day at Work
- Daily Work Life
- Sick Leave Certificate
- Health Issues / Crisis Situations
- Bullying and Conflicts
Communicating Your Impairment
Generally, you should inform your manager if your impairment in any way affects your work or the team.
If you are unsure, a discussion with a job coach or therapist is recommended. Together, you can develop a strategy and decide who you want to inform, when, and how.
Generally, you should inform your manager if your impairment in any way affects your work or the team. This can help prevent illness-related behavior from being misinterpreted as laziness or disinterest.
If you have been absent due to illness for a period or can no longer perform certain tasks, it is recommended to briefly inform your colleagues. This can also prevent false rumors from spreading. However, it is ultimately your decision whom you wish to inform at your workplace.
Workplace Adjustments
Depending on your impairment, workplace adjustments can significantly facilitate your work. What workplace adjustments do you need?
This varies from person to person, so it's best to Profil from Profil . Here are a few examples of the many customization options available:
- Adjustment of Working Hours and Tasks
- Structuring of Tasks
- Clear Checklists or Organizational Charts
- Increased Individual Work
- Fewer Planning Tasks
- No Client Contact
- Less Responsibility
- More Frequent Short Breaks
- Quiet Work Environment
- Work Aids
- Option for Home Office
- Contact Person within the Company for Potential Issues
- Regular Feedback from Your Manager
Working with an IV Pension?
Do you receive an IV pension and wish to work? We would be pleased to advise you!
First Day at Work
With sufficient preparation, you are guaranteed to make a good impression.
Your first day at work is particularly important as it sets the initial impression. The following tips will help you feel more confident:
- Appropriate attire is essential. You may have observed the dress code of other employees during your job interview. If you are uncertain, it is always better to dress slightly more formally than too casually.
- Punctuality is crucial, so plan your commute carefully.
- Initially, address everyone formally until you are invited to use the informal 'Du'.
- Generally, your supervisor will introduce you to your colleagues. If this does not happen, take the initiative to introduce yourself personally.
- Observe the daily work routine around you. Familiarize yourself with the processes, typical end-of-day times, and who takes lunch breaks together. While it's advisable to be somewhat reserved initially, make an effort to integrate yourself.
- If you find yourself without tasks, proactively ask your supervisor for work instead of waiting to be approached.
- If you do not receive feedback on your work, ask for it. This will help you understand if your performance is satisfactory or where improvements may be needed.
Daily Work Life
Probationary Period
During the first three months, both you and the employer have the opportunity to get to know each other better, familiarize yourselves with the work processes and content, and determine if the collaboration meets expectations. A shortened notice period (7 days) applies during the probationary period. The probationary period is reviewed in a discussion – a joint decision is made on whether the employment relationship will continue.
Organization and Structure
Every company is organized and structured differently. Familiarize yourself with the formal and informal channels and processes. When you join a new company, observe carefully and network with long-standing employees. They can also help you become accustomed to the new environment more quickly.
Team
For many people, the team is at least as important as the work content itself. We often spend more time with colleagues than with family or partners. Participate actively, seek contact, and show interest! Perhaps bring croissants or a cake for a break – this often earns you goodwill.
Supervisors
Be respectful and listen attentively. Get to know your supervisor well. If you understand what your supervisor values or dislikes, it will be easier for you to build a good relationship and foster effective collaboration.
General Principles
Do not judge your new employer prematurely and avoid speaking negatively about your previous employer. Especially during the initial period, remain as neutral and observant as possible.
Tips for Life Outside of Work
Here you will find more useful tips for daily life.
Sick Leave Certificate
Maintain contact with your supervisor while you are on sick leave, even if your return date is uncertain. This allows you to plan your reintegration together in a timely manner, and your manager will recognize your commitment to returning to work as soon as possible.
Your doctor is not required to provide a diagnosis on your sick note. Depending on your personal circumstances, you can decide whether or not to disclose the diagnosis to your employer.
Health Issues / Crisis Situations
Should you notice any signs of a crisis or a decline in your health, it is advisable to contact your doctor or therapist promptly. If a hospital stay is planned, you should inform your employer in advance. In cases of prolonged incapacity to work, registering with the disability insurance (Invalidenversicherung) may also be beneficial, as they can support your return to employment.
Bullying and Conflicts
Unfortunately, some individuals may experience bullying in the workplace, whether due to colleagues misinterpreting illness-related behavior or other conflict-generating reasons. In such situations, it is crucial to speak with your supervisor or the Human Resources department. The focus should be on finding a resolution rather than assigning blame.
Insights into our Work
Take a look at our film portraits of people with health impairments and disabilities and their employers.
Our services for people with health impairments and disabilities
Are you looking for a professional challenge that you can pursue despite a health impairment or disability? Do you wish to work while receiving an IV pension?
We actively support you in finding a suitable job. Our goal is for you to find work that you enjoy and can perform long-term.
Contact Us
Do you have a question or would you like a consultation? Please contact us.
We look forward to hearing from you.
