How to Welcome Customers with Disabilities

With the implementation of the AODA and Customer Service Standard many are asking how to welcome customers with disabilities and increase profits. In order to make accessibility a natural part of your business, here are some things to consider as you welcome more customers with disabilities.

People with disabilities have dreams, hopes and goals. They have problems, challenges and needs. It is important to treat customers with disabilities with patience, understanding and courtesy.

Here are some general tips to help you welcome customer with disabilities in your establishment.

*Don't make assumptions about what type of disability or disabilities a person has.
*Some disabilities are not visible. Be patient. People with some kinds of disabilities may take a little longer to understand and respond.
*If you're not sure what to do, ask "Can I help?"
*If you can't understand what someone is saying, just politely ask again.
*Ask before you offer to help -- don't just jump in. People with disabilities know if they need help and how you can provide it.
*Find a good way to communicate. A good start is to listen carefully. Use plain language and speak in short sentences.
*Look at the person, but don't stare. Speak directly to a person with a disability, not to their interpreter or someone who is with them.
*Don't touch or address service animals -- they are working and have to pay attention at all times.
*Ask permission before touching a wheelchair or a piece of equipment.

What tips do you have to welcome customers with disabilities?

These tips are adapted from the Accessibility Directorate of Ontario, the regulator of the AODA and all it's standards. Please refer to www.accesson.ca for more information.

If you are interested in learning more about Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) or how to make accessibility a natural part of your business through the application of Corporate Social Responsibility, please contact Sandra Broekhof @ 416-503-1035 or sandra_broekhof@sympatico.ca or visit www.accessibilitycompliance.ca