Building Confidence and Soft Skills for Employment for Young People with Disabilities

Many young people with disabilities have incredible potential, yet a lack of confidence can hold them back from pursuing jobs or showing their true abilities. If you’re a young jobseeker with a disability, you might feel anxious about entering the workforce or doubt your own skills. The good news is that confidence can be built, and soft skills – like communication, teamwork and time management – can be learnt with practice. With the right strategies and support (and a partner like Next Gen Youth Employment by your side), you can overcome self-doubt, develop the skills employers value, and step into work with confidence. This comprehensive guide offers confidence tips for young people with disabilities on how to boost self-esteem, cultivate key soft skills for youth employment, and overcome job search anxiety. Let’s explore how a positive mindset, practical experience, and support from programs like Next Gen can empower you on your employment journey.

The Confidence Challenge for Young People with Disabilities

Entering the workforce is a big step for anyone, but it can be especially daunting for young people with disabilities. Many have faced challenges at school or in society that chipped away at their confidence. In fact, research in Canada found that lack of self-confidence is one of the main barriers keeping young people with disabilities from seeking work, yet feeling confident in their abilities can increase their chances of being hired by over 50%. Clearly, confidence isn’t just a “nice-to-have” – it’s a key ingredient for employment success.

Why is confidence often low? One reason is past experiences. You might have struggled in school due to not having the right support or accommodations. This can lead to thinking “I’m just not good enough,” when in reality you are capable – you just weren’t taught in a way that suited your needs. As one youth employment mentor explains, some young people come to us thinking they aren’t smart or won’t be able to do much. Our first step is to grow their confidence and show them it’s not true – they just haven’t been taught in the right way for them. Realising that needing different learning methods or supports doesn’t make you less capable is a powerful mindset shift.

Another reason is the anxiety about how employers will perceive your disability. It’s normal to worry whether an interviewer or boss will focus on your limitations instead of your talents. This extra layer of worry can make you hesitant to apply for jobs or assert yourself at work. You might also fear discrimination or not knowing how to ask for adjustments. All these concerns can dent your confidence before you even begin your job search.

The important thing to remember is that confidence can be built – and you don’t have to do it alone. Many others have walked this path. At Next Gen Youth Employment, we understand these challenges and we’re here to help young people with disabilities overcome them. Through our programs, coaching and supportive approach, we’ve seen shy school-leavers blossom into self-assured young professionals. It often starts with small steps: a little success, a bit of encouragement, and suddenly your confidence starts to grow. In the next sections, we’ll look at practical ways to start overcoming self-doubt and building a positive mindset, even before you land a job.

Overcoming Self-Doubt and Developing a Positive Mindset

Self-doubt can be one of the biggest hurdles for young jobseekers with disabilities. You might catch yourself dwelling on things you can’t do, or recalling negative comments from others. Turning this around begins with developing a more positive mindset and recognising your strengths. Here are some strategies to help overcome self-doubt:

• Focus on Abilities, Not Limitations: Instead of defining yourself by what you find difficult, make a list of your strengths, skills and things you can do well. Everyone has talents and abilities. Maybe you’re creative, good with technology, patient with others, or have a great memory. By focusing on your abilities rather than your limitations, you shift attention to your strengths. Employers value those strengths, and so should you! Next Gen Youth Employment can help you identify your unique skills and interests – often our participants discover they have more to offer than they realised.
• Reframe Negative Thoughts: When a thought like “I’m not good enough for this job” pops up, challenge it. Why do you believe that? Perhaps you do have the skills but just lack experience – that’s something you can gain. Remind yourself of what you’ve achieved despite challenges. For instance, finishing school or a training course while managing a disability is a sign of determination and resilience. Practise positive self-talk to replace the doubts (e.g. “I have valuable skills to contribute,” or “I am capable and eager to learn”). It might feel odd at first, but positive self-talk can cultivate a more positive mindset and boost self-confidence over time.
• Embrace Your Uniqueness: Your disability is part of you, but it doesn’t define all of you. In fact, living with a disability can equip you with unique perspectives and problem-solving skills that others might not have. Try to celebrate what makes you different – your uniqueness can be an asset in the workplace. Many companies appreciate diversity and the creativity and empathy that often come with it. As one career advisor put it, having a disability doesn’t need to hold you back – celebrate your differences, because you likely have a set of skills others don’t. When you start viewing your disability as just one aspect of who you are – and even a source of strength – your confidence will grow.
• Accept Support (and Don’t Be Afraid to Ask): Confidence doesn’t mean doing everything alone. It’s okay to need help or accommodations at work – that’s true for everyone, not just people with disabilities. Accepting help isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s often a smart strategy to succeed. If you’re offered guidance from a teacher, coach or mentor, or adjustments on the job, view it as a resource that’s there to help you shine. Likewise, don’t hesitate to speak up about what you need. Whether it’s asking for extra training time or a certain adaptive tool, being proactive in communicating your needs is part of confidence and self-advocacy. Next Gen’s team often assists young people in identifying and requesting workplace adjustments – we can even liaise with employers to ensure you have the right supports in place. Over time, seeing that you can get your needs met will reassure you that your disability is manageable in the workplace.
• Practise Self-Compassion: Finally, be kind to yourself. Job hunting can be tough and everyone faces setbacks. If you don’t hear back from an application or something doesn’t go as planned, don’t spiral into harsh self-criticism. Remind yourself that everyone has rejections and bad days, and that it’s okay to feel frustrated – just don’t let it convince you that you’re not capable. Treat yourself with the same compassion you’d show a friend. By practising self-compassion and positive self-talk, you’ll build a more resilient mindset and confidence that can weather the ups and downs.
• Next Gen tip: Keep a “success diary” to fight self-doubt. Write down any achievements or milestones – big or small – that you’re proud of. It could be “completed an online course on Excel”, “volunteered at the community event”, or even “spoke up about my needs in class”. When negative thoughts creep in, revisit this diary. Seeing a list of your victories is a great reminder that you are progressing and have lots of strengths to build on. We encourage our Next Gen participants to celebrate even small wins, because each step forward boosts your confidence a little more.

By shifting your mindset to focus on strengths, embracing help, and talking to yourself with encouragement rather than doubt, you lay the groundwork for true confidence. It’s a process, and it won’t change overnight – but each time you acknowledge your abilities or push back against a negative thought, you’re training your brain to be more confident. In the next section, we’ll look at how setting goals and celebrating small victories can further reinforce this positive momentum.

Setting Goals and Celebrating Small Victories

When you’re facing a big challenge – like finding a job – it helps to break it into smaller goals. Goal-setting is a powerful confidence booster. It gives you a roadmap and a sense of progress, which can be very motivating. Here’s how you can use goals (and celebrate the victories when you hit them) to build your confidence step by step:

Set Achievable Goals: Start by setting small, realistic goals related to your employment journey. For example, if the ultimate goal is to get a job, smaller goals could be “update my résumé,” “apply to three jobs in my field this month,” or “attend one networking event or workshop.” Achievable goals give you something concrete to work towards in the short term. Each time you achieve one, it proves to you that you can make progress. Setting achievable goals and working towards them can build self-confidence and provide a sense of accomplishment. Make sure your goals are specific and have a timeline (e.g. “complete an online course in customer service by the end of the month”). This way, you’ll know exactly what success looks like and when you’ve reached it.

Celebrate Each Victory – No Matter How Small: Don’t wait until you land your dream job to celebrate. Confidence grows with each small victory. Did you finish that résumé? High five! Did you push past anxiety and make a phone call to enquire about a position? That’s worth acknowledging. Every application sent, every skill learnt, every interview (even if you didn’t get the job) is progress. Celebrating accomplishments, no matter how small, boosts self-confidence and keeps you motivated to continue towards your goals. Reward yourself in healthy ways – maybe treat yourself to your favourite snack or a relaxing activity when you check off a goal. If you’re in a Next Gen program, our youth coaches will be cheering for you too. We love to highlight our participants’ progress, whether it’s gaining a new skill or simply improving in confidence over time.

Use a Step-by-Step Approach: Sometimes the gap between where you are and where you want to be can feel overwhelming. Bridge that gap by focusing on the next small step. For instance, if you’re nervous about the idea of working, your first step might be to talk with a career advisor or join a work-readiness workshop. Next, you might aim for a short volunteering stint or a part-time traineeship rather than a full-time job straight away. It’s absolutely okay to start small – even a short work experience or casual job can give you a bit of money, experience and confidence to build on. Each step into the working world, no matter how minor, will teach you something and boost your self-belief for the next step. Remember, your own timeline is the best timeline – there’s no rush to achieve everything at once.

Adjust Goals as You Grow: As your skills and confidence increase, don’t be afraid to set bigger goals. Maybe a few months ago your goal was “attend a job fair,” but now it might be “complete a TAFE certificate” or “apply for a leadership role in a volunteer project.” Regularly review and update your goals to keep pushing yourself a little further. And if your interests change or you discover new strengths, it’s perfectly fine to change your goals. The purpose of goal-setting is to keep you moving forward, not to box you in. Keep them aligned with what you want for your future – it’s about your aspirations, whether that’s a specific career path or simply gaining more independence.

By setting achievable goals and celebrating each success, you create a positive cycle: accomplishment builds confidence, which in turn empowers you to take on the next challenge. Over time, those small wins add up to big progress. Next, let’s talk about the role of support networks – peers, mentors, and programs – in boosting confidence. You might be surprised how much easier it is to believe in yourself when you have others believing in you too.

Building Confidence Through Peer Support and Mentorship

It often takes a village to build confidence. Connecting with others – whether they’re friends, peers with similar experiences, or supportive mentors – can really supercharge your self-esteem and motivation. You’re not alone on this journey, and there’s strength in reaching out to others for encouragement and advice.

Peer Support: Sometimes the best confidence boost comes from knowing “I’m not the only one.” Joining a peer support group or program for young people with disabilities can help you share experiences and learn from others in the same boat. For example, Next Gen Youth Employment runs group workshops and activities where participants encourage each other and celebrate each other’s wins. When you see a peer get through a challenge, it makes you think, “If they can do it, maybe I can too.” Working alongside other young people who understand what you’re going through creates a sense of community. You can swap tips, practise together (like doing mock interviews or teamwork exercises), and lift each other up on tough days. These positive relationships show you that you’re part of a team and that your contributions matter, which does wonders for your confidence. Even informally, consider connecting with friends or classmates who have jobs to talk about their experiences – their stories might demystify things and inspire you.

Mentorship: A mentor is someone with a bit more experience who can guide and encourage you. Mentors could be adults with disabilities who have navigated employment successfully, or simply professionals in a field you’re interested in. A good mentor is like a role model and cheerleader in one. They can share how they overcame similar doubts, give you practical career advice, and introduce you to networks or opportunities. Mentorship is proven to be an effective way to develop confidence and professional skills – it reinforces learning when you have a role model to look up to. For young people with disabilities, having a mentor who also has a disability can be especially empowering, because you directly see someone who has been there and succeeded. At Next Gen, we often facilitate mentoring relationships, whether it’s connecting you with industry professionals or our own experienced youth coaches acting as one-on-one mentors. Over time, a mentor’s faith in your abilities starts to rub off – you begin to believe in yourself more and more.

Social Activities and Networking: Confidence grows in social settings too. Pushing yourself to engage in community activities (like sports, clubs, or events) can build your interpersonal skills and comfort around new people. It’s all practice for the workplace. In fact, participating in social or group activities – be it a hobby club, a volunteer project or a sports team – can boost self-confidence through “social learning,” where you learn by interacting and observing others. Plus, you might make friendships that become part of your support network. Networking with others – a fancy term for getting to know people – can lead to moral support and even job leads. Many opportunities come from who you know, so don’t shy away from chances to meet new people in safe environments. Attend that youth event, disability employment expo, or Next Gen group outing. Each hello and handshake builds your social confidence a little more.

Family and Allies: Don’t forget the role of family or other allies (like teachers and support workers) in your confidence journey. Talk to your family about your work goals and fears – let them be part of your cheer squad. Sometimes, just having someone consistently remind you “you can do it” makes a big difference. If you have an NDIS plan, your support coordinator or providers like Next Gen are also your allies; lean on them for motivation and guidance.

Next Gen tip: Find a mentor or buddy to share the journey. We often pair our participants with peer buddies or industry mentors because having someone to bounce off can rapidly build confidence. Whether it’s a weekly check-in call or going along with you to your first day of work, a mentor/buddy can ease nerves and help you reflect on what you’re learning. Consider joining Next Gen’s programs or other mentorship initiatives – a helping hand from someone experienced can guide you past obstacles that might feel overwhelming on your own.

In short, don’t isolate yourself. Seek out people and communities that lift you up. Knowing others have your back gives you the courage to push further than you would alone. And one day, you might be the one mentoring someone else – because confidence is contagious! Now, with a growing sense of self-belief, how can you practically prepare for the workplace? One way is to practise workplace etiquette and skills in safe settings before you hit the real thing. Let’s explore that next.

Practising Workplace Etiquette in Safe Settings

One source of anxiety for many young people (with or without disabilities) is the unknown of the workplace. What will it be like? Will I fit in? How should I behave? These worries can chip away at your confidence. That’s why practice is so important – exposing yourself to workplace situations in safe, low-stakes settings can make the real thing far less scary. Essentially, you get to “rehearse” being an employee, so when you actually start a job, you already know you can handle it.

Work Experience and Volunteering: Taking part in work experience programs, internships or volunteering is one of the best ways to practise workplace etiquette and build confidence. These opportunities give you a taste of working life without the full pressure of a permanent job. You’ll learn simple but important things like how to follow a schedule, interact with co-workers, take instructions from a supervisor, and behave professionally day-to-day. And you’ll be doing it in a supportive environment, often with guidance available. For example, Next Gen’s NDIS-funded School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES) program offers structured work experience placements for school leavers with disabilities. Through SLES, you might try a short stint in a retail store, an office, or a café with a job coach checking in – giving you real-world experience and a safety net. These work placements or trials can be literally life-changing in boosting confidence. Spending a few weeks in a workplace helps you realise it’s not as scary as you thought, and might even be enjoyable. You begin to see yourself as a worker, not just a student or jobseeker, and that mental shift is huge for self-confidence.

Role-Playing and Workshops: If you’re not quite ready to jump into an actual workplace, you can start with role-playing exercises and skills workshops. For instance, Next Gen regularly runs workshops on things like workplace communication, customer service, and professional etiquette. In these sessions, we simulate common work scenarios – like answering a phone, handling a mock customer query, or working on a team task – in a relaxed setting where making mistakes is okay. You could also practise at home or school: get a family member or friend to act as a “boss” or “customer” and walk through how you’d handle a situation. Practising workplace norms in a low-pressure environment builds familiarity. The first time you try introducing yourself to a new colleague or managing an unhappy customer, it’s intimidating; by the tenth time, you know the script. By the time you face these situations in a real job, you’ll think “I’ve got this, I’ve done it before.”

Learn Workplace Etiquette: Etiquette just means the customary code of polite behaviour in society or among members of a particular group – in this case, the workplace. Key points of workplace etiquette include things like punctuality (arriving on time), dress code (wearing appropriate attire for the job), greetings (shaking hands or saying hello), email/phone manners, and respecting personal boundaries at work. These might sound like small details, but they add up to making a good impression and feeling confident that you know “how to act” at work. If you’re unsure about any of these, don’t worry – they can be learnt. Pay attention during any work experience or even when you visit someone’s workplace. Notice how people greet each other, how they organise their day, how they address problems. You can also ask mentors or Next Gen coaches: “What should I wear to this interview?” “How do I ask for a day off politely?” There are no stupid questions. Learning the unwritten rules of workplaces before you start a job means you won’t be caught off guard by professional expectations, which in turn keeps your confidence high.

Get Feedback and Reflect: Safe practice settings also let you get feedback to improve. After a volunteer shift or a mock workplace exercise, ask your supervisor or coach: “How did I do? Is there something I could do better or more professionally?” Constructive feedback helps you fine-tune your skills. Maybe you’ll learn to speak a bit more clearly on the phone, or that you should ask for help sooner when you’re stuck on a task. Take those lessons into your next practice round. Reflect on each experience: What went well? What felt challenging? By iterating in this way, your competence and confidence grow hand in hand.

Supported First Days: Even when you do land a job or an internship, it’s okay if you still feel nervous – that’s normal! One option Next Gen offers is a support person attending the first day or two with you (with your and the employer’s agreement). Having a familiar face there initially can ease you into the environment. They can quietly prompt you on etiquette if needed or just be there for moral support during breaks. While not everyone may need this, know that it’s an available support if you’re anxious about starting somewhere new. Soon enough, you’ll get comfortable and won’t need any hand-holding – but it’s nice to know the option is there.

By practising in safe settings, you essentially train for the real game. Each practice run – whether through volunteering, workshops, or mentorship – builds your skills and confidence so that when you step into a paid job, you feel ready. You’ll likely find you can focus more on doing the job well, rather than worrying if you “fit in,” because you’ve already proven to yourself that you can handle a work environment. Now that we’ve covered confidence and etiquette, let’s dive into those essential soft skills for employment – and how you can develop each one.

Essential Soft Skills Valued by Employers (and How to Build Them)

Aside from confidence, employers consistently look for certain soft skills in young employees. Soft skills are the personal attributes and interpersonal skills that enable you to thrive in a workplace. They’re called “soft” not because they’re unimportant – in fact, they’re often make-or-break for getting and keeping a job – but because they’re not technical skills specific to a job. Think of soft skills as your transferable life skills: how you communicate, work with others, manage your time, solve problems, and so on. For young people with disabilities, developing these skills is just as critical as learning any technical know-how. Let’s look at some key soft skills for youth employment and ways you can cultivate them:

Communication Skills

Why it matters: Communication is how you express yourself and understand others. On the job, this can include talking face-to-face, speaking on the phone, writing emails, and even your body language. Employers value clear and respectful communicators. Good communication ensures you can ask questions when you’re unsure, let people know if you need help, and interact well with customers and teammates. It’s also tied to self-advocacy – being able to communicate your needs (for example, explaining your disability accommodations in a confident way) is a powerful skill that helps you succeed in the workplace.

How to build it: Practise, practise, practise. Every interaction is a chance to improve. Challenge yourself to be a bit more outgoing in daily life – for example, order food yourself at a café if someone usually does it for you, or make the phone call to book an appointment rather than having a parent do it. These small acts build your communication muscles. You can also role-play common workplace communications: practise a polite phone greeting, or writing a professional email to a hypothetical boss. If verbal communication is a challenge due to speech or hearing difficulties, work with the tools or methods that suit you best (such as assistive communication devices, sign language, or written communication) and ensure you still practice expressing your thoughts clearly through those. Listening is just as important: try exercises like listening to someone explain a task and then paraphrasing it back to ensure you understood. If you have access to workshops, consider joining a public speaking or presentation skills class – they can be scary, but they really help you learn to organise your thoughts and speak confidently. Regularly interacting with diverse groups of people – whether through early work experiences or social activities – will naturally improve your communication and help you build relationships. And remember, communication isn’t just talking; it’s also learning to listen actively and read social cues, which comes with experience and observation.

Teamwork and Collaboration

Why it matters: Very few jobs exist in complete isolation. Most roles require you to work with others, whether it’s cooperating with a co-worker on a project, pitching in with a team to solve a problem, or simply being courteous and helpful in a shared workspace. Being a team player means you can work well with people of different personalities, accept others’ ideas, and do your share of the work. Employers love to see this, because a team that collaborates effectively is more productive and positive. For a young person who might have felt isolated or “different” due to a disability, learning to contribute as part of a team can also greatly boost confidence – you realise your input is valued.

How to build it: Think of any situation where you’re part of a group – that’s your teamwork practice ground. This could be a school project, a sports team, a drama club, or volunteering at an event. Pay attention to group dynamics: do you step up and take on tasks? Do you also allow others to have a turn? One good way to practise teamwork is through sports or structured group activities, where you have to coordinate and trust others. If sports aren’t your thing, consider any collaborative hobby (maybe a band, an art group, or a coding club). Volunteering is also fantastic for this – for example, volunteering at a charity event often involves working as a team and can simulate a work environment. In the workplace context, try to learn from examples: during any work experience or observation, notice how co-workers communicate and divide tasks among themselves. Teamwork also involves conflict resolution – disagreements happen, so practising how to calmly discuss differences and find solutions is key. If you struggle with social cues or anxiety in groups, let your coach or mentor know; they can give you strategies like having predefined roles (so you know what’s expected of you on the team) or signals to help you navigate group work. Over time, as you participate in more team activities, you’ll become more comfortable speaking up in a group, brainstorming together, and relying on each other – all signs of good teamwork skills.

Time Management and Reliability

Why it matters: Time management and reliability are about being organised, dependable, and able to manage your responsibilities. Employers need team members who show up on time, meet deadlines, and can juggle tasks effectively. For young people not used to a work routine, this can be an adjustment – suddenly you might have to wake up early, follow a schedule, or manage multiple duties in a shift. Demonstrating that you can handle time and tasks shows employers that you’re responsible and can be trusted, which increases your value as an employee. It also reduces your own stress, because you’re not constantly rushing or missing things.

How to build it: Start by creating routines in your daily life. If you have school or appointments, practise being ready 15 minutes early. Use tools like a planner, calendar app, or reminder alarms to plan your day. Set small daily goals like “By 10am I will finish writing my cover letter” – this builds a habit of allocating time to tasks. You can also simulate a work schedule on your own: for example, set a time you want to begin a task and a time to finish it, to mimic having a “shift” or a deadline. At home, you might take on chores that need to be done by a certain time to practice reliability. Parents and carers can help by expecting you to be accountable for some regular tasks – it’s all training for workplace responsibility. Another tip: get used to using checklists or apps to organise tasks. Many people with disabilities find that external organisation systems (like visual schedules or task lists) are lifesavers for staying on track – these are perfectly fine to use at work too. In Next Gen’s programs, we focus a lot on helping young people build independence in managing their time – from catching public transport to work on schedule, to planning out their week. Through supported practice, like a work experience placement, you’ll get used to the rhythm of a workday: showing up consistently and completing assigned duties. Managing your time well and being dependable are skills you can absolutely learn, and as you prove to yourself that you can stick to a routine, your confidence in handling a real job schedule will increase. Employers will notice your punctuality and consistency – traits that often matter even more than technical skills.

Problem-Solving and Adaptability

Why it matters: No job is without its challenges. Problems will pop up – big or small – and how you respond is crucial. Problem-solving means you can think through an issue and figure out a solution (or ask the right person for help if needed). Adaptability means you can adjust when things change – whether it’s a shift in your duties, a new team member joining, or an unexpected situation at work. Employers value employees who stay calm under pressure and tackle challenges with a can-do attitude. For young people with disabilities, you’ve probably already built some problem-solving muscles in daily life by navigating a world not always designed for you. You may also be quite adaptable, having to find creative ways to do things or adjust to various support systems. These are assets! Recognising and refining these skills will help you stand out.

How to build it: Encourage your “curious mindset” when confronted with a problem. Instead of immediately asking someone else to solve it, take a moment to think of possible solutions. Start with small issues. For instance, if you’re working on a group task and a tool you need isn’t available, what could you do? Maybe use an alternative tool or adjust the task order. In daily life, if a bus is cancelled, how else could you get to your destination? These everyday puzzles are practice for work challenges. Flexible thinking is like a muscle – you can practise by intentionally taking a different approach to something routine, just to see if it works. Even games and puzzles can sharpen your problem-solving. If you enjoy video games or brain teasers, know that they actually exercise your ability to think strategically and adapt when the game throws something new at you. Another strategy is to reflect on past challenges you’ve overcome: how did you do it? Maybe you broke the problem down into parts, or sought advice, or tried again differently. Those same strategies apply at work. If you tend to get flustered when something isn’t going as expected, practice a simple technique: pause, take a couple of deep breaths, and then use positive self-talk like “Okay, I can figure this out step by step.” This helps keep you calm and flexible rather than panicked. Mentors can also help build problem-solving skills by walking you through how they would approach an issue, giving you a model to imitate. And of course, real work experiences are gold for this – each time you face and overcome a little obstacle on the job, you become more confident in your ability to handle the next one. Over time, you’ll trust your own judgement and adaptability, which is exactly what employers love to see: a young person who can think on their feet and doesn’t give up at the first hurdle.

Other Key Soft Skills

The above are some of the big ones, but there are other soft skills worth mentioning too, such as positive attitude, self-motivation, professionalism, and integrity. A positive attitude means coming to work with enthusiasm and an open mind – it’s contagious and makes you someone people enjoy working with. You can practise this by consciously focusing on the positives each day (even just saying “I’m ready to give this a go!” when facing a new task). Self-motivation is your internal drive to start tasks and keep going – you build it by setting personal challenges and rewarding yourself for meeting them. Professionalism covers things like reliability (which we discussed), but also respect, confidentiality, and presenting yourself well – essentially, showing that you take your role seriously. And integrity means honesty and strong ethics, like owning up to mistakes and following workplace rules; this comes from personal values that you likely already have and just continue to uphold at work.

The great thing about soft skills is that they carry over everywhere. If you practise them in school, at home, in the community, they will serve you well in jobs, and vice versa. Soft skills often matter as much as technical know-how, especially for entry-level roles. Many employers say they’ll train someone in the specifics of the job if the person has a good attitude, communicates well, and is eager to learn. So by working on your soft skills, you’re giving yourself a real edge. And remember, Next Gen Youth Employment can support you through workshops and coaching focused exactly on these soft skills – from communication games to teamwork exercises, we help you build the confidence to let these qualities shine.

Overcoming Job Search and Interview Anxiety

Even with great preparation, it’s normal to feel nervous about the job search process itself – things like contacting employers, going for interviews, or starting a new role. Young people with disabilities might have additional anxieties, like whether to disclose their disability, or how to handle questions about their abilities. Let’s address some ways to manage and overcome this anxiety so it doesn’t derail your confidence.

Knowledge is Power: One big fear-buster is simply knowing what to expect. Take time to educate yourself on the job search steps – writing a résumé and cover letter, applying online, what happens in an interview, etc. The more you understand the process, the less it feels like a big unknown. Read guides (Next Gen’s blog and resource section is a good start), watch YouTube videos on interview questions, or ask a mentor to walk you through their experience. When you know, for example, that many companies now do an initial phone interview before any in-person meeting, you can prepare for that scenario rather than being caught off guard. This knowledge turns anxiety into action items: “Okay, I might get a phone interview, so I’ll practise speaking on the phone.” Each element you prepare for is one less thing to be anxious about.

Practise in Simulated Scenarios: We mentioned mock interviews earlier because they are incredibly effective for beating interview nerves. If you rehearse answering questions and even handling an awkward moment or two in a practice run, you’ll feel more confident about doing it for real. The same goes for other parts of job searching – you could role-play a phone call to an employer to ask if they’re hiring, or practise introducing yourself at a networking event. The first time doing these things might feel uncomfortable, but in a safe practice with a friend or coach, you can laugh off mistakes and learn. With preparation and rehearsal, your confidence will grow and your anxiety will decrease. Next Gen’s coaches specialise in helping young people with disabilities prepare through mock interviews and other simulated exercises – consider reaching out if you want one-on-one support in practising these skills.

Break it Down & Take Breaks: Job searching can sometimes feel like a full-time job itself, which can be overwhelming and lead to burnout or heightened anxiety. Break the process into smaller tasks and spread them out. For example, Monday: draft my résumé. Tuesday: search and list 5 jobs I want to apply for. Wednesday: draft application for Job #1, and so on. Tackle one thing at a time. Also, schedule in breaks and self-care. After you submit an application or finish an interview, do something relaxing or fun as a reward. This helps keep your stress levels in check. If you start feeling anxious while working on job stuff, step away for a bit and do a calming activity (listen to music, take a short walk, deep breathing exercises) before coming back. Managing your overall stress will make the specific anxieties easier to handle.

Addressing Disability in the Job Hunt: A common worry is “Do I tell them about my disability? If so, when and how?” This is a personal decision and can depend on the nature of your disability and the job. Some people choose to mention it in their cover letter or upfront if they need adjustments for the interview. Others wait until after they’ve shown their skills (for instance, during the interview or once a job offer is made). There’s no single right answer, but know that you are not obligated to disclose your disability unless you need accommodations. Employers are required to provide reasonable adjustments if you request them, thanks to anti-discrimination laws. Thinking through this topic in advance can relieve some anxiety. If you do decide to disclose, practise a confident, brief explanation that focuses on your abilities. For example: “I use a wheelchair to navigate, but it won’t affect my ability to perform in an office job. I just might need a wheelchair-accessible workspace.” Or “I’m autistic, which in my case means I prefer written instructions to verbal ones – it helps me excel at tasks when I have clear documentation.” By framing it as just one fact about you and highlighting how you manage it or how it can even be a positive, you stay in control of the narrative. Next Gen can help you craft disclosure scripts and even let you know which employers have inclusive track records, which can ease your mind.

Coping Strategies for Interviews and New Job Situations: It’s D-Day – you have an interview, or you’re starting a new job trial. The butterflies in your stomach are going wild. In these moments, a few techniques can help manage anxiety:

• Practise deep breathing before and during the event (quietly). Slow, deep breaths can physiologically calm you down.
• Use positive visualisation: Picture yourself in the interview room smiling, answering questions well, and imagine the interviewer nodding and liking you. It sounds cheesy, but visualising a successful scenario can trick your brain into feeling more positive and confident.
• Have a pre-interview routine that relaxes you – maybe listening to a favourite song, doing some light stretches, or a short meditation. Arrive early so you’re not rushed, which reduces stress.
• Remember that it’s okay to be a bit nervous and that interviewers are human too. If you need a question repeated or a moment to think, that’s completely fine – it shows you’re thoughtful.
• If allowed, bring notes. It can comfort you to have a small notepad with bullet points of key things you want to mention or questions you have for them. Just don’t read off it robotically; glance at it if you blank out.

For starting a new job, apply similar techniques: get enough rest the night before, plan your transport so you arrive early, perhaps arrange with your supervisor to have a short meeting on day one to clarify expectations (knowing what you’re supposed to do can ease a lot of nerves). Also, don’t hesitate to use any stress management tools that work for you, even once on the job – maybe on breaks you do a quick breathing exercise or jot down your feelings in a journal.

Lean on Support: You don’t have to handle job search anxiety alone. Keep communicating with your support network – tell a friend or family member when you’re nervous about an upcoming interview so they can give you a pep talk. Use your Next Gen coach or mentor as a sounding board; that’s what we’re here for. Sometimes just voicing your worries (“I’m really anxious I’ll mess up the interview”) and hearing reassurance (“You’ve got this – remember how well you did in the mock interview”) can calm your mind. Some Next Gen participants have even had their job coach accompany them to the interview location for moral support (waiting in the lobby, not in the interview itself!). Knowing someone has your back can make you braver. And if anxiety ever feels overwhelming, it’s absolutely okay to seek professional help from a counsellor or psychologist – mental wellbeing is part of the foundation for success.

By preparing well and using these coping strategies, you can significantly reduce job search anxiety and present your best self. Each interview or new experience will also raise your confidence for the next one. Soon, what once made you very nervous will feel routine. And remember: every single person gets nervous about interviews and new jobs – you are not alone in that. What matters is pushing through despite the nerves, and you’re clearly capable of that.

The Right Job Can Boost Confidence and Independence

It’s worth repeating: the end goal here isn’t just to get a job – it’s to get a job where you feel valued and capable, so that your confidence and independence soar. The whole reason we focus on building confidence and soft skills is so that when you find the right job, it becomes a launchpad for personal growth.

Young people with disabilities often find that getting into a suitable job changes their outlook on life. Suddenly, you’re earning your own money, which brings independence – maybe you can save up for something important to you, or just enjoy social activities without relying on parents for funds. You also gain a sense of purpose and belonging: being part of a workplace team means you’re contributing to society and connecting with others. One employment service manager noted that it’s not even the pay that’s the biggest deal – it’s the confidence young people come back with once they’ve got a job, and the feeling of being connected and able to go out with friends because now they have more independence. A good job can validate your sense of self-worth: all those things you doubted you could do, you’re actually doing in your daily work, and that feels fantastic.

Moreover, work can be a place where your identity shifts from “student” or “person with a disability” to “colleague,” “employee,” or even “expert” at something. It gives you new roles to be proud of. Your co-workers will see your abilities in action, which further reinforces that your contributions matter. Over time, challenges you face at work (and overcome) will continue to build resilience and self-esteem. Even setbacks become learning experiences that you handle with growing confidence.

Importantly, the right job is one that meets your needs and interests. It might take a few tries to find a good fit – and that’s okay. Each experience, even if it doesn’t last, is a stepping stone. As Rhianna (the mentor we quoted earlier) wisely said, you don’t have to start off in your dream career immediately; it’s okay to take something that gets you experience and confidence, learn from it, and go from there. Think of your early jobs as part of your learning journey. With each one, you’re polishing your soft skills, understanding your work preferences better, and gaining references and connections. Eventually, you’ll land in a role where you really thrive.

If you’re worried about the transition to work, know that there are programs designed to support you (like Next Gen’s SLES for school leavers, or disability employment services). These exist to make sure the move into employment is smooth and successful. They can help match you to a job that plays to your strengths and provide on-the-job support initially. There’s a lot of help available to find that “right job” – one where you feel safe, supported, and able to shine.

Finally, consider this: confidence is a cycle. By working on your confidence and skills, you increase your chances of getting a good job; and getting a good job further increases your confidence and skills, which then opens more opportunities. You deserve to experience that empowering cycle. It might seem far off now, but with the steps you’re taking – reading articles like this, seeking support, practising skills – you’re already on your way.

Next Gen Youth Employment: Here to Help You Succeed

Building confidence and soft skills is a journey, but you never have to travel it alone. Next Gen Youth Employment (Next Gen) is dedicated to helping young people with disabilities in Australia prepare for and find meaningful work. We believe every young person has strengths and potential waiting to be unlocked – and with the right guidance, you can achieve your employment goals.

Our team at Next Gen can support you in many ways: from one-on-one coaching to group workshops and real-world work experience placements. We tailor our approach to your needs. For instance, if you’re struggling with confidence, we’ll start there – perhaps pairing you with a mentor, or working on small achievable tasks to build up your self-belief. If soft skills are a concern, we have practical training sessions on things like communication techniques, teamwork activities, time management hacks, and problem-solving exercises. We also partner with local employers who understand the value of inclusion, meaning we can help connect you to disability-friendly workplaces where you’ll be given a fair chance to prove yourself.

At Next Gen, we’re not just about getting you a job – we’re about empowering you for a long-term career and independence. That means we stick with you through the process: helping you overcome anxieties, cheering you on as you hit milestones, and even advocating for you when needed. As you gain confidence and skills, we’ll help you showcase them to employers – whether that’s through improving your résumé and interview techniques or actually accompanying you to meet employers as a support. Remember the story earlier about bringing a familiar face to an interview or first day? That’s the kind of personalised support we offer.

If you’re a young person with a disability (or a parent or carer of one) who wants to boost confidence and get ready for employment, reach out to Next Gen Youth Employment today. Let us help you put these tips into action. You can contact us via our website or phone to learn more about our programs like SLES, our workshops, or just to have a chat about how we can assist you. No question is too small – whether you need guidance on career planning, help with building a particular skill, or support to find job opportunities, Next Gen is here for you.

Your journey towards employment and confidence starts with a single step – and we at Next Gen are ready to walk beside you every step of the way. With the right mindset, the right skills, and the right support, you can absolutely overcome self-doubt and find a job that makes you feel proud and independent. Let’s work together to make that happen. Contact Next Gen Youth Employment for more information or assistance, and take that next step towards a bright future with confidence!