If you're living with dyslexia and looking for a job, the process can be challenging.
That's why helping you find a fulfilling job, in a workplace that supports your long-term mental wellbeing is our mission.
Jobs for people with dyslexia
Find a job that works for you
If you're living with dyslexia and looking for work, you aren't alone.
The Australian Dyslexia Association estimates that dyslexia also affects 10% of people living in Australia, as well as many successful people you might be familiar with such as Jamie Oliver, Muhammed Ali, Tommy Hilfiger, and Jennifer Anniston.
Searching for fulfilling work while managing your mental health and dyslexia symptoms can be tricky, and it's our mission to support you to not only find meaningful work, but also thrive in your workplace.
Finding meaningful work while living with dyslexia is worthwhile as it can:
- Give you a sense of structure and purpose
- Build your confidence
- Expand your social circle
- Allow you to have financial independence
Below, you’ll find advice on understanding how to identify your strengths, learn what you really need from a job and get ideas of job roles that may fit your needs when living with dyslexia.
Your journey and situation are your own, and discovering what will work for you is an essential part of that journey.
Keep reading for tips on finding a job while living with dyslexia.
What to look for in a job when you have dyslexia
People living with dyslexia are capable of finding fulfilling work in a range of different job roles and workplaces.
Symptoms, skills and interests vary from person to person. In your job search, focus on finding a job that enhances your individual strengths and helps you manage your mental health.
While everyone’s experience living with dyslexia is different, you may like to consider the following features:
Do you need structure or flexibility?
If your dyslexia symptoms make it difficult to stick to long working hours or a structured work environment, you might prefer a flexible role. A growing number of jobs can be done from home with a flexible schedule and workload.
What are you passionate about?
Having a sense of purpose in your day-to-day work can help you stay focused and inspired. When you feel passionate about what you’re doing, it can give you the motivation and drive you need to excel at your job.
What are your strengths?
Are you a strong visual thinker? Are you good with problem-solving or have strong communication skills? Or maybe you have a knack for spatial awareness?
Think about how your skills and strengths make you a valuable addition to different types of workplaces.
Job ideas for people with dyslexia
Everyone experiences dyslexia differently, which means there is no one-size-fits-all list of best jobs for you.
However, here are some ideas to get you thinking about what might work for you.
When looking for the best options for work, you should consider your individual strengths, skills, needs and capabilities.
It’s important to remember that the kind of job that is right for one person may not be right for everyone.
If you would like more support, speaking to an employment consultant at APM can also help you discover other opportunities you may not have considered before, or that may be more suitable specifically for you.
Jobs with flexibility
- Graphic designer
- Photographer
- Information technology (IT) worker
- Landscaper
- Personal trainer
- Illustration artist
- Florist
- Makeup artist
- Dog walker
Jobs with a sense of purpose and passion
- Social worker
- Sports coach
- Physical education teacher or assistant
- Sports umpire
- Yoga instructor
- Caretaker
- Nursing staff or care worker
- Work for a charity/not-for-profit organisation
Jobs that require unique strengths
- Chef
- Architect
- Video game developer
- Urban planning
- Landscape architect
- Graphic designer
- Art director
- Fashion design
- Painter
- Electrician
- Musician
Please note - these job and career suggestions may not be suitable for everyone with dyslexia. These suggestions may suit some people depending on their circumstances including, but not limited to, their current experience with dyslexia.
What employment support can I access?
If you're living with disability, injury, or a health condition, there is support available to help you reach your goals.
If you are eligible for Disability Employment Services, (people with dyslexia may qualify for support), APM can provide support to assist you to find work.
Disability Employment Services is a government-funded program designed to help you find and keep work and is provided at no cost to participants.
You may be eligible for help with:
- Career advice
- Finding suitable job opportunities
- Meeting local employers
- Writing resumes and job applications
- Preparing for job interviews
- Accessing training
- Accessing mental health support
- Ongoing workplace support
- Accessing funding for things like uniforms and transport
- Accessing workplace modifications to help you succeed at work
- Workplace assessments to help identify what support is right for you
Disability Employment Services
See if you're eligible for DES support
Disability, health, and work
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My DES story
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About this article
APM supports people with disability, injury, or a health condition through various programs and services across its businesses, including Disability Employment Services in Australia.
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.
When discussing disability, APM’s copy style is to use person-first language and the social model of disability in the first instance. Some articles may use identity-first language or refer to the medical model of disability for clarity or to better suit a specific audience.
If you have any questions or feedback about the content of this article, visit our Feedback page to get in touch or email support@apm.net.au