Evidence-based Practice #5 and #6.

Job finding is individualized.

Job finding is based on consumers’ preferences, strengths, and work experiences.

Follow-along supports are continuous.

No arbitrary time limits are placed on the length of contact with consumers or the employer when appropriate.

Transcript

The fifth principle is that job finding is a collaborative process of identifying jobs. This collaborative process emphasizes use of a consumers’ preferences, strengths, and prior work experiences. Job selection takes into account job duties, location, hours of employment, work environment, and other factors related to satisfaction and success in working.

Four studies have examined the role of occupational preferences. These studies have found that consumers whose initial supported employment positions are consistent with their job preferences are much less likely to quit their jobs. Moreover, consumers working in a field consistent with their preferences also have higher job satisfaction. The emphasis on job matching is in contrast to conventional ideas of developing a pool of jobs and then offering consumers jobs from this pool.

The sixth principle is that assistance from the supported employment program is not arbitrarily discontinued after a fixed period of time. In many states, funding for supported employment services is time-limited, triggering rules about how long someone is eligible. Or, the funding may shift from one source (such as vocational rehabilitation) to a second source (such as Medicaid) after a specific period of time that a consumer is employed. It is very apparent from clinical experience that arbitrary time limits can be detrimental to the design of a supported employment program. Therefore, programs that find ways to individualize the support for consumers and to continue to stay in touch over the long term appear to be more effective than those that establish strict rules about time limits.

A study by McHugo and others in 1998 illustrates the importance of long term-support from the supported employment program. This study interviewed consumers over 3 years after they enrolled in supported employment. Among consumers still in close contact with the supported employment team, 71% were employed. Among those who were not in close contact only 28% were employed. The study concluded that higher rates of employment over time were associated with continuous vocational services.