Career fairs are an excellent way to start or advance your job search. Whether they’re in person or online, job fairs let you engage with potential employers and learn about job openings. If you’re aware of an upcoming job fair that our readers would find helpful, please email us at TTWsocialmedia@ssa.gov with the event name, dates, and official website.

The websites below provide listings of career fairs that are taking place in many different locations across the country. Many also include virtual career fairs. We’ve provided a sampling of specific events, but please be sure to visit the organizations’ websites for complete details.

Links to these job fairs are not affiliated with nor endorsed by Social Security and may not follow the same privacy, security, and accessibility policies. To learn more about accommodations available to job seekers wanting to attend a fair, please contact each organization directly for their accommodation request process and deadlines.

CareerEco

Below are some virtual career fairs being hosted throughout the nation this month.

• September 9: Volunteer Opportunities Virtual Fair
• September 10: Bender Virtual Career Fair
• September 16: Marketing and Communications Virtual Fair
• September 19: Neurodiversity Virtual Career Fair
• September 24: Explore Careers in Higher Ed - All Roles & Experience Levels
• September 25: Seasonal Surge: Holiday Hiring & Gig Work Fair

Job FairX

Find your next job at one of these virtual job fairs hosted this month.

• September 9: Jacksonville Healthcare Virtual Job Fair
• September 19: Allen Technology Virtual Job Fair
• September 22: Kansas City Entry-Level Virtual Job Fair
• September 24: Birmingham Healthcare Virtual Job Fair

RecruitMilitary

RecruitMilitary seeks to tap into the extensive talent pool that veterans represent for employers.

• September 10: Boston Veterans Job Fair
• September 18: Phoenix Veterans Job Fair
• September 25: Job Fair at Fort Bliss
• September 30: Eastern Region Virtual Career Fair for Veterans

USAJOBS

USAJOBS is the federal government's official employment site. As part of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM), USAJOBS helps recruit and retain a world-class government workforce. USAJOBS connects job seekers with federal employment opportunities across the United States and around the world.

• September 11: IRS Holtsville, NY - Contact Representative Hiring Event

Need help on your career path?

Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program can help. The Ticket Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) and want to work.

Through this free and voluntary program, eligible participants can work with service providers to receive the supports and services they need to find and maintain employment as they move toward financial independence through work. Connect with one today to learn how the Ticket Program can help you on your path.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket to Work Program, call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.; or visit choosework.ssa.gov.

You can also learn more by registering for a free, online Work Incentives Seminar Event webinar. Or text TICKET to 1-571-489-5292 to receive Ticket Program texts. Standard messaging rates may apply, and you can opt out at any time.

Have you ever dreamed of working on your own terms — setting your own hours, choosing your clients, and building something that reflects your talents and values? For many people with disabilities, self-employment offers not just a source of income, but a sense of control, creativity, and purpose. Whether it's turning a hobby into a source of income or launching a full-fledged business, working for yourself can be empowering.

But where do you start? What resources are available? And how do you make sure your path supports your financial goals?

In this post, we are exploring practical tips for starting a business, free tools to help you get going, and how Social Security’s Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program can support your efforts.

6 Tips for Starting Your Own Business

Whether you're dreaming of launching a small business, offering freelance services, or simply earning extra income, self-employment can open possibilities. The key is to approach it with clarity of purpose, resourcefulness, and confidence.

Here are six practical tips to help you build a business that fits your life, supports your strengths, and moves you closer to the independence you deserve.

1. Begin with What You Already Know

Leverage your existing skills, interests, and lived experience. Whether it’s baking, organizing, writing, crafting, or technology, there could be a business idea waiting in what comes naturally to you.

2. Choose a Business That Matches Your Energy and Interests

Whether it’s tutoring, crafting, consulting, or content creation, go with something that you are passionate about and that fits your lifestyle. Your business should support your health — not work against it.

3. Explore Free Business Planning Tools

Sites like the Small Business Administration offer free templates, webinars, and guides for business plans and startup steps.

4. Learn with Free Online Education

Platforms like Coursera, edX, and YouTube offer free courses on marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship. Look for “audit” options to access content without payment.

5. Market Yourself Without Paying for Ads

Use free social media accounts to showcase your work. Join niche online groups where you can share expertise and attract interest naturally. You can also find free tools for creating a blog or a website.

6. Connect with Free Communities and Mentorship

Check out local libraries, disability advocacy groups, and online forums. You can even get free mentorship through organizations like the Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) or the National Disability Institute’s Small Business Hub.

Final Thought: You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

Starting your own business is exciting — but it can be complicated. That’s where the Ticket Program can help. If you're age 18 through 64 and receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI), this free and voluntary program connects you with employment services which may include, business planning assistance, ongoing support of your entrepreneurial efforts, and benefits counseling — all designed to help you succeed while maintaining access to p your health coverage and some or all of your benefits or payments as you pursue financial independence.

To find out if you’re eligible to participate in the Ticket Program and access services to help you pursue self-employment, you can call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. ET. You can also send us an email at TicketToWork@ssa.gov.

Whether you're creating a source of income or building a full-time business, the Ticket Program can be your partner as you progress toward your goal. You’ll get help understanding Work Incentives, learn how earnings from work affect your benefits or payments, and build a path toward career satisfaction.

Your business, your pace, your future — with the right support, it’s all within reach.

Want to learn more about how the Ticket Program can support you while you pursue self-employment? Check out our August WISE webinar: Working for Yourself with Ticket to Work!

Looking for a job? Your resume, cover letter, and portfolio show employers who you are and what you can bring to their organization. Understanding their purpose can help you make the most of each of them. Let's break it down.

Resume

A resume is your professional snapshot. It's a quick, one-page overview of your work experience, skills, education, and even volunteer work. It's your chance to make a strong first impression on hiring managers, showing them why you are the right fit for the job. Think of it as your career highlight reel. It also helps interviewers frame their questions to understand how your background aligns with the position.

Cover Letter

A cover letter is your personal introduction. It's a one-page document that gives employers a glimpse into your skills and enthusiasm for a job. Not all applications require one, but sending a cover letter is your chance to explain why you are excited about the role and how your experience makes you a great fit.

A good cover letter follows a standard letter format and includes your contact details, the employer's information, a warm greeting, an engaging introduction, a few strong body paragraphs showcasing your skills, and a professional sign-off. The key? Always tailor it to the specific job to make a lasting impression!

Portfolio

A portfolio is your proof of expertise. It's a collection of your best work that lets employers see your skills in action. It should feature projects relevant to the job you are applying for, whether that is marketing campaigns, design pieces, writing samples, or coding projects. Portfolios can be physical, like a printed binder, or digital, such as a personal website that showcases your work. Having a well-organized portfolio can help you stand out and show potential employers exactly what you can do!

How Ticket to Work Can Help

A well-crafted resume, cover letter, and portfolio are essential for making a positive impression and highlighting your experience and strengths. If you are not sure where to start or want help improving your materials, Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program can connect you with a service provider who understands what employers are looking for. They can guide you step by step to make sure your documents are clear, professional, and tailored to your goals. With the right support, you will be better prepared to take the next step toward meaningful employment

Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program is designed to help people who receive SSDI/SSI and are ages 18 through 64, and want to work to gain financial independence.

If you're interested in the Ticket Program, getting started is easy. You can contact us directly by calling the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.; or visit choosework.ssa.gov. Our Help Line representatives can send you a list of service providers in your area or you can find one on your own using the Find Help tool.

Career fairs are an excellent way to start or advance your job search. Whether they’re in person or online, job fairs let you engage with potential employers and learn about job openings. If you’re aware of an upcoming job fair that our readers would find helpful, please email us at TTWsocialmedia@ssa.gov with the event name, dates, and official website.

The websites below provide listings of career fairs that are taking place in many different locations across the country. Many also include virtual career fairs. We’ve provided a sampling of specific events, but please be sure to visit the organizations’ websites for complete details.

Links to these job fairs are not affiliated with nor endorsed by Social Security and may not follow the same privacy, security, and accessibility policies. To learn more about accommodations available to job seekers wanting to attend a fair, please contact each organization directly for their accommodation request process and deadlines.

CareerEco

Below are some virtual career fairs being hosted throughout the nation this month.

• August 5: Back-to-School Education Virtual Career Day
• August 12: Farm to Future: Food and Ag Sciences Virtual Expo
• August 13: Student Success: Internships & Entry-Level Virtual Fair
• August 14: AI & Automation Virtual Career and Grad Summit
• August 27: Blue-Collar Boom: Essential Jobs Virtual Hiring Expo

Job FairX

Find your next job at one of these virtual job fairs hosted this month.

• August 7: Utica, NY Technology Virtual Job Fair
• August 15: Virginia Beach, VA Entry-Level Virtual Job Fair
• August 20: Overland Park, KS Healthcare Virtual Job Fair
• August 25: Nashville, TN Entry-Level Virtual Job Fair
• August 26: Elk Grove Healthcare Virtual Job Fair

RecruitMilitary

RecruitMilitary seeks to tap into the extensive talent pool that veterans represent for employers.

• August 5: Transitioning Service Member & Spouse Virtual Career Fair
• August 21: Greater Denver Area Veterans Job Fair
• August 26: National Virtual Career Fair for Veterans
• August 28: Indianapolis Veterans Job Fairs

USAJOBS

USAJOBS is the federal government's official employment site. As part of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM), USAJOBS helps recruit and retain a world-class government workforce. USAJOBS connects job seekers with federal employment opportunities across the United States and around the world.

• August 19: August 2025 Veterans Strategic Hiring Event 

Need help on your career path?

Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program can help. The Ticket Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) and want to work.

Through this free and voluntary program, eligible participants can work with service providers to receive the supports and services they need to find and maintain employment as they move toward financial independence through work. Connect with one today to learn how the Ticket Program can help you on your path.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket to Work Program, call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.; or visit choosework.ssa.gov.

You can also learn more by registering for a free, online Work Incentives Seminar Event webinar. Or text TICKET to 1-571-489-5292 to receive Ticket Program texts. Standard messaging rates may apply, and you can opt out at any time.

This month marks the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)! Signed into law in July 1990, the ADA gives people with disabilities the right to request reasonable accommodations in the workplace. Reasonable accommodations are adjustments to a job or work environment that can help make tasks more manageable and jobs more accessible. These accommodations often come at little or no cost and can improve the overall work environment for everyone.

If you're unsure about what kind of accommodation might meet your needs, the Job Accommodation Network (JAN) offers the Situations and Solutions Finder. JAN, a service of the United States Department of Labor, helps individuals with disabilities explore accommodation ideas and provides practical suggestions for requesting and negotiating accommodations with an employer. This tool allows workers with disabilities to browse examples of jobs and accommodation strategies to help them determine what might work best in their own workplace.

According to JAN, the Situations and Solutions Finder draws on information collected from JAN customers. JAN receives this information from customers who choose to provide feedback, usually in an email or through an ongoing survey JAN conducts in which employers contribute information about workplace accommodations. Participating employers represent government agencies and a variety of industry sectors, including health care, education, manufacturing, service, wholesale/retail sales, etc., and span from very small businesses to global corporations.

Using the Situations and Solution Finder

While this tool isn't a one-size-fits-all solution, it can serve as a helpful starting point for individuals exploring the types of workplace accommodations that may align with their specific needs.

You can use the tool to search for accommodations by disability type, limitation, or occupation, and choose multiple keywords and filters when you search.

For example, returning to work after a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) can come with challenges like memory loss and difficulty focusing during conversations. If you use the tool to search for brain injury accommodations, you will learn about one employee who found it difficult to concentrate and retain information during meetings. To help manage these symptoms, the employee began using an artificial intelligence (AI) powered notetaking tool that captured key points in real time—allowing the employee to review detailed notes afterward and stay engaged more confidently.

How Can Ticket to Work Help

Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) and want to work. Through this free and voluntary program, eligible participants can work with service providers to receive the services and supports they need to find and maintain employment as they move toward financial independence through work.

Ticket to Work Program service providers—like Employment Networks (EN) and State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agencies—can play a key role in helping you understand, request, and implement reasonable accommodations at work.

They can:

• Help you identify what accommodations you may need based on your disability and job duties
• Coach you on how to request accommodations, including what to say and who to talk to (e.g., HR or your supervisor)
• Assist with documentation, such as helping to write or reviewing your accommodation request
• Provide education about your rights under the ADA, so you feel confident navigating the process
• Suggest tools or strategies, like assistive technology or schedule adjustments, that have worked for others in similar situations

Want to learn more about requesting accommodations for work? Join us for our next WISE webinar on July 30 at 3 p.m. ET! The topic will be Ticket to Work and Reasonable Accommodations. Register now: https://choosework.ssa.gov/wise/

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket to Work Program, call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.; or visit choosework.ssa.gov. You can also email us at TicketToWork@ssa.gov.

If you are interested in receiving text messages from the Ticket Program, please text TICKET to 1-571-489-5292. Standard messaging rates may apply. We'll send updates from our blog, identify steps on the path to employment, and notify you about the latest webinar. We hope you'll find this way to stay in touch helpful. You can opt out at any time.

When it comes to finding a job, who you know can matter just as much as what you know. In fact, studies — including one from LinkedIn — show that around 85% of jobs are filled through networking. That means many roles never even make it to job boards. If you are relying only on online applications, you could be missing out on great opportunities.

The good news is networking isn’t just for extroverts or seasoned professionals — it's something most people can do with a little effort and the right approach. Social Security’s Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program can also provide valuable support, helping you build connections, clarify your goals, and find the resources you need to succeed. Here are a few simple things to keep in mind as you start building your network.

Be clear about your goals

To make the most of networking, it’s important to be clear about the type of job you are looking for and why you are a strong candidate. Being able to explain your goals and what you bring to the table helps others understand how they can support you or connect you with opportunities. Make sure your resume and online profiles — especially LinkedIn — match the kind of job you want. If you are unsure about your job goals, you don’t have to figure it out alone. A Ticket to Work service provider can help you explore options based on your interests, experience, and skills.

Consider online and in-person options

Start by doing a little online research. Check out potential employers, industry leaders, or professionals you admire. Getting familiar with them can give you an edge.

Next, make a list of people you already know. Your network is probably larger than you realize! Friends, former colleagues or classmates, professors, and even past teachers can be valuable connections.

And remember, networking isn’t just about face-to-face meetings. Social media is a powerful tool for expanding your circle. Whether you are reconnecting with old acquaintances or discovering new professionals in your field, engaging online can open unexpected doors.

Reach Out

When you are searching for a job, reaching out to your network can make all the difference. Whether you make a call, send an email, or drop a message on social media, let people know you are looking.

Be clear about what you need — whether it’s a reference, a job lead, or insights into the industry. Give them a quick update on your skills and recent experience so they know how they can help. You can even ask if they would be willing to review your resume and offer feedback.

A simple message could open doors you did not expect, so don’t hesitate to put yourself out there!

Attend a Networking Event

Finding the right networking event can be a game-changer in your job search. Start by choosing one that aligns with your career goals. If you are aiming for a job in IT, for example, look for industry-specific gatherings where experts and potential employers will be present.

Also, consider the event format that best suits your personality and social preferences. Some networking events are large conventions with name tags and panel discussions, while others are intimate meetups at coffee shops or even virtual gatherings on platforms like Zoom. Job fairs — whether online or in-person — can be a great opportunity to connect with hiring managers.

If you are preparing for a career fair, check out our blog, 5 Questions to Ask at Career Fairs, for tips on making the most of the experience! Investing time in the right events can open doors and help you build valuable connections.

Set up an Informational Interview

An informational interview is a casual conversation with someone who works in a job, at an employer, or in a field you are interested in. It’s not a job interview; you are not asking for a job. Instead, you are asking questions to learn more about what they do, how they got there, and what advice they might have. It’s a great way to explore career options, make connections, and get insider tips from people with experience.

Asking someone for an informational interview shows you are motivated to work, eager to learn about employment opportunities, and interested in exploring a particular workplace or field.

Stay Organized and Keep in Touch

Keep a list of the people you have connected with and those you want to follow up with. Make notes about your conversations, and schedule time for a quick phone call, message, or meeting. Staying in touch doesn’t always have to be about your job search. Sometimes a simple check-in or thank you goes a long way. Building strong relationships means keeping the connection going, so when you need advice, ideas, or support, you will have a network you can count on.

How Can Ticket to Work Help

Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) and want to work. This free and voluntary program connects eligible participants with service providers to receive the services and supports they need to find and maintain employment as they move toward financial independence through work.

A Ticket Program service provider such as an Employment Network (EN) can help you set clear career goals, strengthen your resume and online profiles, and even guide you in building and expanding your network. They may also have connections with local employers or know of opportunities you wouldn’t find on your own. With the right support, you don’t have to navigate your job search alone.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket to Work Program, call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.; or visit choosework.ssa.gov. You can also email us at TicketToWork@ssa.gov.

Career fairs are an excellent way to start or advance your job search. Whether they’re in person or online, job fairs let you engage with potential employers and learn about job openings. If you’re aware of an upcoming job fair that our readers would find helpful, please email us at TTWsocialmedia@ssa.gov with the event name, dates and official website.

The websites below provide listings of career fairs that are taking place in many different locations across the country. Many also include virtual career fairs. We’ve provided a sampling of specific events, but please be sure to visit the organizations’ websites for complete details.

Links to these job fairs are not affiliated with nor endorsed by Social Security and may not follow the same privacy, security and accessibility policies. To learn more about accommodations available to job seekers wanting to attend a fair, please contact each organization directly for their accommodation request process and deadlines.

CareerEco

Below are some virtual career fairs being hosted throughout the nation this month.

• July 17: Western Region Virtual Career and Grad School Fair
• July 24: Second Act: Career Pivots & New Paths Virtual Fair

Job FairX

Find your next job at one of these virtual job fairs hosted this month.

• July 8: Fargo, ND Virtual Healthcare Job Fair
• July 14: Salt Lake City, UT Entry-Level Virtual Job Fair
• July 18: Richmond, VA Technology Virtual Job Fair
• July 22: Sacramento, CA Healthcare Virtual Job Fair
• July 24: National U.S. Technology Virtual Job Fair

RecruitMilitary

RecruitMilitary seeks to tap into the extensive talent pool that veterans represent for employers.

• July 10: Tampa, FL Veterans Job Fair
• July 15: Western Region Virtual Career Fair for Veterans
• July 17: Job Fair at Naval Station Norfolk
• July 24: St. Louis, MO Veterans Job Fair

Need help on your career path?

Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program can help. The Ticket Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) and want to work.

Through this free and voluntary program, eligible participants can work with service providers to receive the supports and services they need to find and maintain employment as they move toward financial independence through work. Connect with one today to learn how the Ticket Program can help you on your path.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket to Work Program, call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.; or visit choosework.ssa.gov.

You can also learn more by registering for a free, online Work Incentives Seminar Event webinar. Or text TICKET to 1-571-489-5292 to receive Ticket Program texts. Standard messaging rates may apply, and you can opt out at any time.

Searching for a job is hard enough without having to worry about scammers. But unfortunately, fake job postings are out there – and they can look very real. The good news? With a few simple tips, you can learn how to spot the red flags before it’s too late.

Here are 6 common signs of a job scam and what you can do to protect yourself.

1. Do Some Research

Scammers often create fake job listings that appear legitimate. Always check the official employer website to see if the job is listed there. If it’s not, it might be a scam. You can also look up the employer on Google and LinkedIn to make sure it’s real and has actual employees. If you’re unsure, contact the employer directly to double-check.

2. Never Pay for a Job

Legitimate employers will never ask you to pay for job applications, training, or equipment. If someone wants you to send money, it’s a scam.

Scheduling can also help with prioritizing equally important tasks. For example, if you need to work with a coworker on a specific project, but the only time you’re both available is next week, you can move the project lower down on your list and prioritize the tasks you can complete on your own this week.

3. Beware of Too-Good-to-be-True Offers

If a job offer seems too good to be true (enormous salary or fantastic perks with minimal effort required), it probably is. Be cautious of unrealistic promises. This is a common tactic used by scammers to lure people in.

4. Check for Professional Communication

Legitimate employers use professional email addresses and communication methods. Be wary of job offers from personal email accounts or poorly written messages. Larger employers will have their own domain. Carefully examine an email address to see if it is real or fake.

5. Protect Your Personal Information

Never provide sensitive personal information (your Social Security number or bank details) early in the hiring process. Legitimate employers usually wait to ask for this information until later in the hiring process – typically on the first day of work.

6. Trust Your Gut

If something feels off, trust your instincts. Don’t rush into anything. Take your time to verify the job before giving out any information or making any commitments.

Final Thoughts: How Ticket to Work Service Providers Can Help

Job scams are frustrating, but you can protect yourself by staying alert and asking the right questions. Ticket to Work service providers can offer trusted guidance throughout your job search. They can teach you what to watch for – like fake job listings, requests for payment, or suspicious emails – so you know how to spot warning signs early.

Our service providers have experience working with employers and understand common scams, so they can help you verify job offers and connect you with legitimate opportunities. Plus, they’re a safe resource to turn to if you’re unsure about a job or recruiter.

Connecting with a Ticket to Work service provider means you’re not alone in your search – you get expert help to find legitimate jobs, avoid scams, and build a career with confidence.

Start building your employment team today! Visit our Find Help Tool or call the Ticket to Work Help Line today! Call the Help Line: 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. You can also email us at TicketToWork@ssa.gov or visit choosework.ssa.gov.

Have you ever looked at a posting for a job announcement and noticed the following phrases: "self-starter," "fast-paced environment," "ability to meet deadlines," or "ability to work independently”? What these and similar phrases mean is you will need to be good at managing your time. In this blog, we’re going to look at the importance of time management and how you can have a more efficient workday.

What is Time Management?

Time management is a set of smaller skills that help make you an efficient employee. Because there are limited hours in a workday, it's important to understand how to make the most of each hour and how to create systems that work for you.

1. Prioritizing

It’s possible that you may not have enough time to complete all of your assigned tasks. Knowing how to look at a list of tasks and rank their importance based on value to your employer, approaching deadlines, or complexity is something employers look for in their employees. Being able to set realistic work goals for your day and achieving them not only brings personal satisfaction but also shows your employer your professionalism.

2. Scheduling

Once you've ranked the tasks on your list, the next step in good time management is scheduling. Keeping a schedule and using tools like a planner or email reminders can help you stick to your plans, build daily routines, and manage your priorities. If you know you have a meeting at 9 a.m. and get a reminder at 8:30 a.m. to attend, you're less likely to be late and disrupt the flow of the meeting.

Scheduling can also help with prioritizing equally important tasks. For example, if you need to work with a coworker on a specific project, but the only time you’re both available is next week, you can move the project lower down on your list and prioritize the tasks you can complete on your own this week.

3. Workload Management

Finally, time management means discussing and setting reasonable expectations. Staying organized through to-do lists, using scheduling systems, and prioritizing your required tasks can make large workloads more manageable. However, working at your top speed all day, every day is not sustainable. You may want to break larger projects into smaller milestones with realistic deadlines leading to the larger, final deadline. Taking breaks throughout the week lets you recharge and refocus on new tasks. Have open conversations with your supervisor about his or her expectations for you and about tasks or projects that you may need help with. Knowing when to ask for help is not a sign that you're unable to do the work; it's a recognition that you understand the assignment and what is involved in accomplishing it. That recognition is an important skill employers look for in their future leaders.

Tips to Improve Time Management

Though soft skills (or people skills) like time management aren't as easily taught as technical skills, there are ways to practice and improve your abilities. Here are some tools that may help support your time management.

Create a routine. Routines give us stability and eliminate the time wasted trying to answer the question, "What comes next?" By establishing and sticking to a routine, you're less likely to forget the tasks you need to complete every day.

Plan your day. As part of your daily routine, set aside time to plan your day. Once you've prioritized your to-do list, create a schedule and plan for how and when you'll start and complete each task.

Track your timeframes and adjust them as needed. Occasionally time yourself on certain projects, but don't try to race the clock. Go through tasks at your normal, comfortable pace. Be honest about how long certain tasks take. If you only allow 15 minutes for a reporting task on your schedule, but the report normally takes you closer to 30 minutes to complete, you're not setting a realistic goal for yourself. And your frustration may make you even less productive on other tasks later in the day. Make adjustments as needed to your scheduling, confirm deadlines, and discuss it with your supervisor if you find you need additional time on certain tasks. Your supervisor may be able to help streamline some processes or adjust your workload.

Use time management tools. Most email programs also have task tracking and calendar features. Many employers provide their employees with collaborative software that helps them track big and small projects. Or find a pen and paper planner system that works for you. For some, a combination of all these tools works well to stay on top of everything you need to do. This is not a one-size-fits-all solution. You may have to go through some trial and error to find the system that works for you.

How Can Ticket to Work Help

Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) and want to work. Through this free and voluntary program, eligible participants can work with service providers to receive the services and supports they need to find and maintain employment as they move toward financial independence through work.

Ticket Program service providers can help you learn more about soft skills, how to develop and polish your skills and even think about the accommodations that may help you improve them. A Ticket Program service provider, like an Employment Network, can also help you navigate situations that arise in the workplace to find solutions or ask for accommodations.

Remember — no one is born with good time management skills, but with practice and the right tools, you can master this important skill.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket to Work Program, call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. You can also email us at TicketToWork@ssa.gov or visit choosework.ssa.gov.

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When you hear the word “self-employment,” what comes to mind? Owning a brick-and-mortar store? Working in your own space—maybe a studio in your own home? Spending time doing something you love? Being your own boss? All of these may be associated with self-employment. Does the prospect of being responsible for how you earn your living appeal to you? Today we’ll talk about the many ways you can work for yourself, what makes for successful self-employment, and resources that can help you make self-employment a reality.

What are examples of self-employment?

Self-employment comes in many forms. For example, you could:

• Own a business. This could be owning a brick-and-mortar store, working out of your own home or selling products online.
• Be an independent consultant. Instead of providing services to just one business client, you can provide your services to many. Independent consultants usually have contracts with clients to provide specialized expertise.
• Work as a freelancer. A freelancer often provides a specific type of product or service such as web development, photography, data entry, translation, programming, etc. Often, assignments are short term or temporary with multiple clients.

What are some benefits of self-employment?

Some obvious advantages of working for yourself include increased control and flexibility as well as personal satisfaction.

• Control. You choose your clients, work colleagues, work environment, accommodations, and what type of work you do. You can also choose how much to charge for your work based on your experience and mastery of your skill.
• Flexibility. You make your own work schedule and set your business hours based on client needs. This flexibility allows you to manage transportation needs and schedule around important events, personal activities, holidays, etc.
• Satisfaction. When you like what you do, and you get paid for it, you satisfy your passion for the work and gain financial rewards.

What defines successful self-employment?

Another word for self-employment could be “entrepreneurship.” To consider whether self-employment is for you, let’s look at the most common characteristics among successful entrepreneurs. A few that rate most highly are attributes like motivation, creativity, discipline, resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to accept some risk. An entrepreneur needs a vision of their business’ purpose and a practical plan to achieve its goal.

What's next?

If you think self-employment may be your path to a successful work journey, there are many paths you can consider.

• Find a mentor. One of the most helpful paths is to find a mentor. A mentor is someone who has gone through a similar process as you and can share their real-life experiences. They can help you develop your own business goals as well as help you create your business plan and forecast financial needs. One way to find a mentor is by visiting SCORE. SCORE is a nonprofit organization that provides free and confidential business mentoring services to prospective and established small business owners in the United States. You can type in your zip code to find free available mentors in your area.
• Visit online resources. Many organizations offer free resources to help you as you plan, launch, and grow your business including counseling, mentoring, education, and business plan development.
  • Small Business Administration. The Small Business Administration (SBA) provides resources that can help you plan your business, launch your business and even get free business counseling. You can also find ways to get loans and other financial advice.
  • National Disability Institute. The Small Business Hub section of the National Disability Institute provides several online resources including free one-on-one counseling, help creating your business plan, and events for small business owners or potential owners.
  • Job Accommodation Network. The Job Accommodation Network offers the State Small Business and Self-Employment Guides as a resource for finding SBA offices and affiliated programs.
  • U.S. Department of Labor. The U.S. Department of Labor offers a section for Small Business and Self-Employment for people who have questions about self-employment and its potential advantages for people with disabilities.
  • Social Security’s Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program. The Ticket Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) and want to work. Through this free and voluntary program, eligible participants can work with service providers to receive the services and supports they need to help start their entrepreneurial journeys, such as business counseling, identifying funding resources, and finding business mentors.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket to Work Program, call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. You can also email us at TicketToWork@ssa.gov or visit choosework.ssa.gov.