Perspective of Employers on Customized Employment

This Lead Center brief details employer perspectives on customized employment for individuals with disabilities. In customized employment, the job candidate and employer create an individualized match between the candidate’s strengths and interests and the business needs of the employer. The brief includes the results of six focus groups of employers of various sizes, industries, and locations who had hired individuals with disabilities for customized jobs. Employers who had tried customized employment found it to be worthwhile and valuable, but many employers lack experience in working with individuals who have disabilities. The brief includes recommendations for employers, funders/policymakers, employment service providers, and trainers to inform the approach of customized employment programs moving forward.