WebAIM - Web Accessibility In Mind

E-mail List Archives

Re: new blind digital accessibility consultant seekingbusiness mentorship/guidance

for

From: David Engebretson Jr.
Date: Mar 12, 2023 7:51PM

In my opinion you've made an excellent choice for a career. The job market for digital accessibility specialists is booming, and the screen reader is an excellent tool for WCAG compliance analysis.

I've found that knowing how to fix the HTML, CSS, and JavaScript issues presented to folks is valuable if the audience is technically oriented. Sometimes I have to modify my technical speak when I give presentations. Someone told me once, "Always know your audience."

Plus, I'd suggest you have a good microphone, don't talk over your screen reader output when giving presentations, and don't expect too much for your services. I've only seen a couple of vendors request payment "per page". Then they disappear, unless they are a company that focuses on single document remediation. Personally, I'd charge per hour if salaried wasn't an option.

I work with folks who have multiple pages on their site. Most companies with multiple pages per site would probably rather pay you on an hourly contract than a per page contract.

Do you have a university in your region? If so, I'd suggest you talk with them (the webmaster and the disabled student resources technical folks) to see if they'd be willing to bring you on as a specialist.

Or, if you want to remain a contractor then check out all of the accessibility specialist jobs available at Microsoft, Google, Apple, Facebook, and many more large companies looking for your expertise. There's lots of opportunity out there. What's your dream job? Aim for that with the idea that it may take a few years at not so dreamy jobs before you get yours. 😊

Also, I'd be happy to talk to you offline if you want a real voice in your ear. My personal email is <EMAIL REMOVED>

Cheers,
David