Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can pose challenges in thinking, sensory processing, communicating, and interacting. Students with these conditions can have difficulty finding fulfilling employment, but alongside these challenges, it is important for students to recognize their strengths as they transition to adult life.
The good news is that employers now realize there are a range of benefits to hiring individuals with ASD and welcome this group of potential workers. Check out common positive attributes of youth with ASD (courtesy the Society for Human Resource Management).
- Trustworthiness
- Strong memory
- Reliability
- Adherence to rules
- Attention to detail
- Pattern recognition
- Very direct communication style
- Diversity in thinking
- Innovation and creativity
While no one with ASD possesses every attribute listed above, this list can help your students identify their strengths. Students can match their strengths to employers looking for those attributes, resulting in a good job fit or in customized employment.
To help students identify these qualities, consider having them create a portfolio or resume as a transition activity. You can also have them explore any of the resources below to recognize their strengths and how they can benefit an employer. Your encouragement will help students foster a positive mindset about themselves and their ability to work.
Resources
- ASD-friendly Employers—10+ Examples of Companies with Autistic Hiring Programs
- Videos
- Article
- Autistic and Unapologetic: Finding Jobs for Autistic People: A Complete Guide to Autism and Employment.
- Organizations Promoting Positive Autism in the Workplace