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IDD, the creation of strong links between the school and potential employers is
an essential mechanism for improving future employment opportunities. This
qualitative phenomenological study examined the perceptions of employers who
had a history of hiring individuals with IDD to identify strategies that improved
employment opportunities. A scenario-based survey first identified employers who
expressed consistent willingness to select individuals with IDD. A smaller subset of
these people then completed a checklist that identified their perceptions of desirable
qualities in potential employees. Finally, a virtual interview occurred with employers
who further delineated their insights into the hiring practice. The results indicated
that these employers were willing to hire individuals with IDD and believed there
was room for the community to increase the feasibility of such hires. Suggestions
emerged for strategies and activities that could promote relationships and further
expand hiring in the future. Systematically strengthening the ties between the school
and potential employers appears to be an excellent opportunity for ensuring that
well-prepared graduates with IDD will become the successful employees of the
future.

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24 The Delta Kappa Gamma Bulletin: International Journal for Professional Educators