Constructing successful career paths for people with intellectual disabilities: Workplace innovation programs from Australia

This study examines how human resource management innovation programs in the early stages of employment can support a successful career path for workers with an intellectual disability (WWID). The first case study was carried out at a large national courier company where a film innovation program was used to enhance the socialisation process of WWID. The second case study was at a five-star hotel situated in a large city where a buddy system innovation program was used in the induction and training process of WWID. Our qualitative study is underpinned by socialisation and career construction theory which provides the framework to discuss the ways in which socialisation and socially inclusive human resource management practices enable participants and other WWID to achieve successful career paths. The participants displayed more confidence and independence in their ability and exhibited aspirations to advance and succeed in their roles. The study argues that human resource professionals need to be more proactive in finding innovative ways to engage WWID in the early stages of employment.