Ashley Sims

Replacing top talent is one of the most expensive—and overlooked—challenges organizations face. New data shows professionals with disabilities are advancing faster, but often by leaving their employers to do it. Here’s what that means for retention, and how employers can respond.

Recruiters can improve disability hiring by focusing on skills over rigid criteria, using AI thoughtfully, making hiring processes clear, and offering simple accommodations. These steps remove barriers and help qualified candidates succeed.

A lot of hiring happens through relationships—conversations, referrals, and internal recommendations—often before a role is widely advertised. That’s why learning to use the connections you already have can be one of the most practical (and empowering) job search strategies available.