Resumes of Job Seekers with Visual Impairments: Characteristics and Quality.

Abstract

Introduction: High unemployment rates and employment barriers for people with visual impairments are well documented in the literature. Minimal research has focused on job search challenges for this population, with little to none on creating effective resumes. As quality resumes are often vital for employment, this study examined the quality and characteristics of resumes of adults with visual impairments.

Methods: Researchers reviewed and scored resumes submitted by 99 job seekers with visual impairments as part of a larger job search intervention study. Researchers used an adapted 9-section rubric to score resumes on standard resume sections and characteristics and scanned each resume using an online applicant tracking system (ATS) checker, for an overall assessment of resume quality.

Results: Most resumes scored low in critical areas, including the header, education section, experience section, layout, style, language, and tone. Few resumes met the overall criteria for an acceptable resume. The ATS extracted about 84% of resume content and sometimes extracted incorrect information for particular elements, likely attributable to formatting issues.

Discussion: The results indicate a need for improvement in resume preparation and knowledge for job seekers with visual impairments. Job seekers must present their skills and qualifications effectively with clarity, visual appeal, and ATS compatibility to increase their chances of securing an interview. Addressing this knowledge gap could help improve employment outcomes for this group.

Implications for practitioners: Our findings indicate the need for more attention to resumes in the rehabilitation process related to securing employment and have implications for creating effective resumes.