Finding a Job While on the Spectrum

Finding a job can be an overwhelming task for anyone. It can be especially difficult for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities such as Autism. Studies estimate that around 75% of the nearly 5.6 million autistic adults in the United States are unemployed or underemployed. Due to restrictions and biases, almost half of all 25-year-olds with Autism have never had a paying job. Many adults who are on the spectrum can’t get the fulfillment and feeling of self-satisfaction that a job provides. In this post, you will find some quick and helpful tips to finding gainful employment when you're on the spectrum.

The Challenges of Finding a Job While on the Spectrum

What makes things more complicated is that school services end at the age of 22. After a person with an intellectual or developmental disability turns 22, they are no longer entitled to some of the help and/or services that they were.

Matthew Lerner, who is a professor of pediatrics, psychology, and psychiatry at Stony Brook University in New York, has performed a study on this subject. Lerner says “ that the most important factors in being able to get a job are past work experience and vocational training. It helps people get a sense of the norms and expectations.” He also said, “For maintaining a job, focusing on individual strengths – like attention to detail and accuracy on work tasks – is important.

The most important part of Matthew Lerner’s research is the following, “people with autism are people, and often their needs don’t differ so dramatically from people without autism.” He went on to say, “If we can better accommodate their needs in ways that are easy and low-cost, they can be phenomenal contributors when given the right opportunity.”

Tips for Finding a Job as an Adult with Autism

One of the first steps towards finding an inclusive job is finding somewhere that lists available jobs. One such website is thespectrumcareers.com. They help those who are on the spectrum find understanding companies willing to hire them. You just have to answer a few questions, and you can be on the job hunt within minutes.

You should then create a list of your skills – everything you’re good at. As well as create a list of everywhere near that you can walk to or even take public transportation to.

The next, and likely one of the most important steps, is to create a resume. Most humans need help with this step, but there are plenty of resources online to help you with creating a easy-to-read, straightforward email.

Another great tip that anyone looking for a job can follow is practicing your interviewing skills. You can try to get a friend or family member to help you with this card. Try to make these practice interviews as realistic as possible – shake hands, maintain eye contact, and be as professional as possible.

If you follow these steps and have a bit of hope and perseverance, you can likely find a job. All you have to do is take the plunge. Practice and put yourself out there, and most importantly – GOOD LUCK!