Purpose Past studies have emphasized a compelling need for enhanced understanding to effectively tackle the employment and employability challenges faced by marginalized groups such as Persons with disabilities (PwD). Although numerous studies have examined barriers and solutions from a larger scope, there is a dearth of research focusing on individual-level concerns, particularly with the self-perceptions of people with disabilities. The present study seeks to address this gap, by examining the perceptions of employability among PwD. Design/methodology/approach Using survey data from 180 employees with disabilities working in public and private sector organizations in India, we tested hypothesized linkages using structural equation modeling. Findings Results highlight that organizations’ customized interventions such as idiosyncratic deals, co-worker support (CWS), as well as protean career orientation (PCO) of employees with disabilities, have a significant positive bearing on perceived employability (PE) of individuals with disabilities. In addition, we found job self-efficacy (JSE) beliefs of employees with disabilities playing a significant mediator role in the PCO-PE relationship. Research limitations/implications This study highlights the critical role of key stakeholders in fostering communities of practice within organizational contexts besides outlining a future research agenda. Originality/value The study underscores the importance of viewing PwD not merely as recipients of support but as active agents in shaping their careers, drawing on employability perceptions of people with disabilities in an understudied country context, India.
Suresh et al. (Tue,) studied this question.