August 01, 2022
Advice for Helping an Adult with Autism Get a Job
Verywell Health recently published a list of 10 issues that can help an adult with autism (or parents of adults with autism) understand the challenges they may face when searching for employment. This much-needed list also includes resources that can lend support when looking for a job.
Most Adults with Autism are Underemployed. This Is Due to:
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- Low Expectations
- Competition and challenges
- Lack of Programs
School Sevices End at Age 22
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- Remember IDEA ends on the 22nd birthday
- Apply for adult services once IDEA runs out
Transition-to-Adulthood Programs Are Few
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- Until recently, having an adult autism diagnosis was rare
Adult Services Vary by Location
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- IDEA is federally mandated, but most adult services are not
State and Federal Agencies Are Just Starting to Understand Autism
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- Bureaucracy and funding limitations are making it challenging to keep up with the needs of a fast-growing group of adults with autism
Tap Into Informational and Advocacy Resources
Employment Choices Should Be Self-Directed
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- Vocational and aptitude tests can help adults with autism figure out a good fit
Job Options Depend on Abilities and Challenges. Consider these factors:
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- Social anxiety
- Severe sensory challenges
- Inflexibility
- Difficulty with handling criticism
- Unwillingness to share or collaborate
Look for New Upcoming Job Opportunities
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- Large corporations are starting to have autism-friendly outreach programs
Prepare for Success, Which Includes:
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- Involve at least one, if not more disability-focused agencies
- Active engagement of the employer (and sometimes an employer-managed training or internship program)
- Training and practice of employees with autism
- Job coaching and mentorship
- Ongoing evaluation, troubleshooting, and problem-solving
