Tips For Transitioning Back To The Workforce After An Injury

If you’ve suffered a work injury that makes it impossible for you to return to the same role, it can seem like a daunting task to find a new job, especially if you have permanent damage from the injury. So how can you go about finding a new career that you’ll thrive in after a work injury? We share some tips in today’s blog.

How To Find A New Job After A Work Injury

If you know you won’t be able to return to the same role after a work injury, or a workplace injury has knocked you out of the workforce for a considerable period of time, consider these tips for helping you secure a new job you’ll love.

1. Consult a QRC – A QRC is a qualified rehabilitation consultant, and their job is to help you transition back to work or into a new role based on the limitations caused by your work injury. They can do a number of different helpful things, from assisting during physical therapy to teaching new movement techniques to avoid exacerbating an injury, and they can even work with your employer to adapt new roles at your job so they can create a position that suits your new needs.

2. Line Up References – If you are no longer working at your old job, be sure you have the contact information of old managers or bosses, especially if they know you performed good work. Let them know that someone may be reaching out for a reference. Word of mouth goes a long way in helping you land a new position. Speaking of which…

3. Ask Your Friends and Family For Leads – Oftentimes finding a job you know comes down to who you know, not what you know, so leverage your circle of friends and family. See if they know any places that are hiring, or if they may be able to put in a good word for you. However, if someone is going to stick their neck out for you, be sure you follow through on your end. Your friends and family are more likely to know your work ethic and go to bat for you, so it never hurts to ask around.

4. File For Workers’ Compensation – Workers’ compensation is designed to help provide financial assistance while you work towards returning to work. Don’t assume that you’ll be able to find a new job quickly or that filing for compensation is a sign of weakness; if you are injured on the job, you have the right to pursue compensation. Finding a new job may affect your benefits, but having a reliable source of income while you’re injured makes the new job hunt less stressful, and it allows you to wait for the right opportunity instead of jumping at the first offer.

5. Talk to a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer – Finally, be sure to talk to a workers’ compensation lawyer. Aside from being able to maximize your compensation claim, a workers’ compensation lawyer may be able to point you in the direction of a trusted employee placement center. They have connections in the industry that can help you find a new position after a work injury, so don’t be afraid to ask for their advice.

For more tips, or to talk to a workers’ compensation lawyer about your options, reach out to Dean Margolis today.