Tips on Answering Queries

First, let the person know that you appreciate hearing from him or her.
Let the individual know that you value his or her effort to seek out information.
Acknowledge the individual's feelings (frustration, anxiety, etc.).
If the query is from an intermediary, mention that the person who is blind or visually impaired may also contact you directly.
Share your experiences in deciding on a career and securing the "right" job, including the length of your job search and what other jobs you held during this time.
Provide any suggestions you may have for researching, identifying, and approaching suitable companies...stress the importance of getting to know other employees, whether through volunteer or temporary positions.
Ask for details about where mentees are in their academic or training programs and how that training realistically compares with yours.
Discuss how to keep skills current, whether through continuing education courses or internship programs.
Recognize a prospective mentee's positive efforts (such as membership in a consumer organization or civic club) and remind her or him how a personal/professional network may provide helpful job leads.
Address concerns about transportation, assistive technology, and accommodations.
Provide questions to ask local rehabilitation practitioners, assistive technology (AT) trainers or AT vendors, to learn more about related products and services.
Specify how much, if any, vision you have so individuals can evaluate whether the tools you use would be suitable for their use.
Share any other resources with which you might be familiar.
Encourage mentees to maintain contact and let them know that you are available for further questions.
Refer visitors to the CareerConnect staff, as needed.