Hi I'm autistic and a manager, so I sort through CVs and conduct job interviews for my department. I struggled a lot with job interviews myself so here are a few tips which might help.
* Can it with the self-deprecation. Like your username for example. I used to do it a lot too, but it doesn't help. It just makes the people you meet go "okay then, I guess you are since you're telling me that."
* Confidence is a self fulfilling prophecy, go in telling yourself you got this. It doesn't matter how much sense it makes, or whether you believe it or not, just tell yourself it over and over again.
* Look at the forehead just above the eyebrows if you can't remain eye contact. You want to be looking at the person conducting the interview, but focus on specific things at a time. Shirt collar, eyebrows, nose, etc.
* Don't be honest. I used to trip over this, but when they say "what are your weaknesses" don't be honest. Keep it mundane and light, like "*sometimes I can get too detail oriented and loose sight of the picture bigger*" and then provide a way of how you'd correct this behaviour "*which has taught me to really listen to what my colleagues are saying.*"
* If you don't want to handshake, then do some other gesture first, i.e a slight head bow or bring your hand to your chest. If they act funny about it, say it's because of covid.
* Don't tell them that you're autistic. This is controversial, and personally I could be cool with it, but others might not be so I wouldn't risk it.
* Talking wise, try and keep the ball in the air. Radio silence is always worse then chattiness.
* Interviewers are not antagonists, they are more then likely somewhat busy and tired, and want to find someone to fit the role.
That's just some general advice, hope it helps!
>Don't tell them that you're autistic.
This. I recently attended a speech by someone with ADHD and is a hiring manager. I met him and spoke with him about autism and the difficulties with getting an interview when you disclose that you're autistic
Is it ethical to not mention you're autistic? No. But if you don't disclose that, it's not the end of the world
How can you avoid telling the manager you're autistic if you'll receive help on site like a job coach? Wouldn't they need to know why someone is helping you at work?
Not everyone with autism would require someone like a job coach on site
But if you did need someone like that on the job with you, then you'd definitely need to disclose that information
I would which is why I asked. And the fact that you'd need to tell them is conflicting with these people saying not to tell them. I was just confused :(
Usually getting a job is more than 1 interview round. Wait until the last round when contract, salary , worktimes is discussed.
You might still loose out.But if you mention it from scratch you are deminishing your chances very much.
I did/tried for 20 years (with 4 years self employed in between) . After about 15 years , with lots and lots of burn outs and depressions, I was so exhausted and traumatised that I couldn't keep more than a year contract (usual minimumvthey offer in my line of work).
Maybe it just is not healthy for some of us? At least not full time.
I am now much happier with my volunteerjob. But good financial social security is a part of that.
> still loose out
*lose
*Learn the difference [here](https://www.merriam-webster.com/words-at-play/lose-vs-loose-usage#:~:text=%27Lose%27%20or%20%27Loose%27%3F&text=Lose%20typically%20functions%20only%20as,commonly%2C%20a%20noun%20or%20adverb).*
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I would think though that they would fire you later if you say you are, because you lied to them. I don't know how likely it is, but it doesn't seem worth it. Plus, if they accept it outright, it might work out better in the long run, so it's pretty much the only thing I would consider if I ever wanted to have a job (currently not really interested in employment for other people, especially not in hourly wages)
unless they ask directly "are you autistic?" which is unlikely anyway given the ball-ache it would cause for HR reasons, how it leaving it out of an interview lying?
I would think more about indirect questions, like "can you communicate well", "are there any mental differences" etc. If you wouldn't want to disclose anything, you would have to lie there, or not?
Definitely.
By Dutch law (where I live) you are never legally obliged to give medical information to your employer. And even if you divulge this information, your employer is never allowed to record your medical information other than legally needed *like they can record that you had a sick day, but not why you were on sick leave*
That being said, I have always told recruiters/interviewers what my medical difficulties are when it affects my performance.
Like my visual disorders cause me to be a slow reader and such, and my hypermobility causes me to need a flexible work space, like I could work two handed and suddenly have both shoulders dislocated where I should find a new way to work asap.
This is however vastly different if you only have autism which does not affect you in such a way that you are less productive than your colleagues.
I fucking hate not being honest. I once wrote a thank you letter because I realized that the interviewer was exhibiting the same things that I do such as the lack of eye contact, mumbling, etc. I guess it is was too much a shit sandwich but I genuinely appreciated that he was not super fake positive like the other ones.
I have no problem with maintaining a job but it is definitely the getting a job that is the hard part for me. I was unemployed for a year which did lead to my diagnosis. It takes an incredible amount of energy to prepare for an interview and I never do well. (The job that I am at I never applied for or did any of the networking that I also don't know how to do.) I basically have to be a different person. I'm not sure how much I mask but preparing is definitely that times ten or a hundred. (I emphasize with those that can never hold a job. That got to be difficult. I am super scared of the next time that I have to search for a job.)
I think this sounds pretty much like "lie to them so you can get the results". Imo that's pretty irresponsible. I would rather be rejected on honest answers than get money based on lies like talking BS about weaknesses, selling yourself etc, because then they obviously will observe you and can fire you on the basis on having lied to them, especially if the interviews are recorded. I think when take this into consideration, it's much better to not get a job by saying your autistic than getting it and then working somewhere that's not suited for you on a lie, where you can't really tell anyone later that you are lest you want to be accused of deceit and lose it all, it just doesn't seem worth it (unless you really are in a life or death situation and there are no benefits to sustain yourself on, that would be different situation where you probably would have to do anything that's legally okay to get by)
The entire point of a job interview is to sell yourself, you are fundamentally presenting yourself as an asset which can maximise cost efficacy for the company.
Personally, I'd say it's better to get a job and grab cash when you can. If you don't like it then at least you've got a month's rent in your pocket.
And by lying, I mean basic interviewee advice like when asked "what are your biggest weaknesses" don't say "sometimes I fall into deep depression, don't shower for four days, and spend all my time gazing at my phone screen." But if you'd rather be honest about that, be my guest. Or saying that you've got four years experience at a company when I can see online that you only graduated last year.
And my medical background is none of my employees business if I don't want it to be. It's not deceit, it's me having boundaries.
In terms of money, I agree but only if you have no options. I wouldn't want to be bound to a company, having to sit up the time there, if they don't want me to begin with if you understand that. That doesn't sound quite right to me.
In terms of the weaknesses question, I would rather answer that I can't really say that because I'm not good observing and comparing myself since I don't know a lot of people. That's honest, at least, rather than saying my weakness is "being too perfect" or so.
Lying about having experience is something I think I could never do. I would also be too afraid about legal liabilities about that stuff, I would at least presume that lying about facts like this is at least a civil offence.
I don't think of me being autistic as a medical thing, but I agree with you that it's private, I don't shout it before me when I'm buying bread at a bakery for example. But I would be wary if I am dependent on someone not knowing my limits and potentially being able to force me to do things outside of what I can mentally manage to live through.
To the principle point: yes, in some way you're selling yourself, but I think that's already happened when you applied and said that you are willing to do that for them. After all, it's not my job to tell them what they are looking for. I expect them to tell me what they want me to do, then I can tell them if I would be willing or not. I don't think I should lie, because that will become obvious later, and that simply means I would answer the question without any tricks, and then they can decide if it's worth it. I don't really see what's wrong about that position
Jobs are not allowed to ask about your disability. It’s voluntary information. Companies can get in trouble for not hiring you because you disclosed a disability. It’s called discrimination. They’ll judge you based on your interview. They can’t fire you later for being autistic, that’s illegal.
Another tip: turn the spotlight on the interviewer and company, this is your future and time, make sure these guys are cut out to get it. It totally changes your heads perception and way of walking in and this easily throws the interviewer through a loop usually for the better.
Mostly agree, your advice especially regarding eye contact, handshakes and confidence is valuable. (Covid has been amazing for no handshaking :>, I am hypersensitive to touch and sound so I physically could not do them)
However, regarding don't tell them you're autistic, it depends where you are. Maybe in the US yes, but in the UK for example we have an obligation to interview anyone with a disability, and the best thing to do is just put it on your application. I am also a manager that hires for my own team but also interviews and completes paperwork and inductions for some of my colleagues if I have time.
Employers have a legal responsibility to make reasonable adjustments. If you feel they have ignored your application, you have a right to request feedback. If they interview you, and no matter how well it goes but you are refused, you can request feedback. If you receive feedback but you think they have made up another reason not to hire you when it's just because of your disability, you can speak to Citizens Advice Bureau for up to date advice.
Honestly because of the legal minefield most people will just interview regardless, if it works out it works out.
Note: they do not legally owe you a job. This is all to protect people not being hired when they are perfectly qualified but have some disability, or can do the job with minir adjustments, eg customer service with one arm, you can do that or, I read a lot about adjustments for deaf employees when I had to do research. However, if someone in a wheelchair applies for working on an oil rig or those technicians that climb pylons, it is not possible to do even with adjustments.
I also realise that I focused far too much on one specific point and I don't want this to come as an attack, just a different perspective. 😅
Also I am not speaking for Roses OP, but from my own experience it took a _long time_ for me to get to this stable job. I was only diagnosed a month ago so for the last 8 years it's just been assumed I am a stereotypically 'difficult bitch' (thanks previous bosses!) with mental health issues. Nope, just turns out I was overstimulated and having meltdowns, and the majority of my issues were down to the classic undiagnosed female autism.
It took me about 5 years to learn sufficient people skills to be given my promotions (I work in catering so my job is mostly physical labour with my close knit kitchen team, and then solo office work the rest of the time) and I've been here so long higher managers and auditors have generally realised that I'm good at my job if I am left to it 😂
Employment is a difficult road, and you can definitely make it work. Lacking necessity may make it more difficult, but it is an important process that can help you learn about yourself.
Sorry for ramble but at least I know you guys all understand 😂😂
you could look into ones that are based around stocking. there's also ones based around record keeping and inputting data. and ofc manual labor tends to not require much interaction, so you could look into something like landscaping or general upkeep, lots of larger places like cemeteries might be looking for somebody to do maintenance and upkeep. id do that if i didn't have other physical stuff stopping me.
most jobs might not let u speak to actually nobody, but there are a good amount where you'll only talk to like one person and those interactions are just around what they're asking you to do.
There is a labour shortage. If you try hard enough you will find a job, just don't shoot for the stars. Try a warehouse or a supermarket. If that doesn't work out try volunteer work to get some experience
There is not and never has been a labor shortage. Our whole system is dependent on there being a reserve army of labor, that is, an army of unemployed, in order for your boss to be able to remind you that there are 10 other people out there who want your job whenever you start doing things like talking about labor rights or asking for a raise.
A labor shortage implies there are more jobs than people to do them. This has never at any point in history been the case.
If you can handle large and often cranky crowds, the front end at Walmart could be something. They hire EXTREMELY easily, sometimes you won't even need an interview
Just being reminded of the concept of a job gives me an anxiety attack. The reason why has to do with MIXED MESSAGES that make myself feel "unemployable".
Don't tell them you have autism until after you get hired, trust me. Just keep trying, if you do enough interviews you will get hired. Just fake it until you make it, practice your talking voice, smiling and hand shake.
I’d say the opposite, if there’s space to explain how autism presents in you and you’re not applying for a job you’re going to find challenging then it could make them more understanding in the interview. If you’re applying for a warehouse job for example then a lack of eye contact isn’t going to affect how you carry out the role.
Are you in the U.S? My sister is a job coach for people with disabilities of all sorts including autism. Their are programs and organizations out there that will help you find a job, maintain the job and do weekly checks etc with you and more. There is something called DDA (Developmental Disability Administration) and they do life long support. Check it out and maybe they can help or something similar.
I know your struggle. It’s hard for me to maintain a job when I get one and I have trouble finding a job.
I recently got wrote up for not being “outgoing and socialable.
You’ll find one eventually. Try to find one that’s remote and interviews are by phone or video
I would start with volunteering if I were in that position. Food banks, animal shelters, and other places aren't too picky about social skills for volunteers. They want someone who can't sort stuff, walk a dog, play with cats for an hour or two, or do some basic cleaning.
Avoid the 'pay to volunteer' places. They are more about feeling good about volunteering and getting the donation pitch than actually doing anything.
The advantage of starting with volunteering is most volunteering experiences are short times and start as one-time experiences unless you and the organization want to continue. It lets you opt out politely if it's not for you. It also lets you explore different options. Even in this situation it can lead to a paid job. I knew someone who volunteered at a small animal shelter (6 employees). After three months of volunteering a part time position opened up and they were offered the job.
Most require you to fill out an application online. It's mostly so they can Google you and run your name through a local law enforcement database to make sure you aren't a violent felon or associated with something like a white supremacy group. It can take a few weeks for them to have time to do it so don't let that discourage you.
Good luck.
Find a passion, or two or three, then learn as much as you can. It provides a starting point. Example; I love rocks, they come in so many colors, strengths, textures, etc. And so many of them can be polished and be just stunning. From there I started rock hounding, which is going and finding my own. Turns out you can make a living doing that. Some people even do very well for themselves that way. (I would probably do ok if I sold them, but I kinda horde them instead.) There are a lot of things like that. Money can be made in ways people don't except.
I am sorry for you, but you need to remember this: stop trying to live up to societys' 'expectations'. You have unique talents as an autistic individual. I know youve got them somewhere. So do those. Dont try and be like 'normal people'. 'Normal people' are in fact boring with no special abilities or talents, unlike autistic people. So my advice would be: do whatever you are passionate about and strive to make it a career.
So why did you say `You have unique talents as an autistic individual`
and
`Normal people' are in fact boring with no special abilities or talents, unlike autistic people`
You can troll here I guess, until you get banned, but it's not really fair to the other people who are going to take your words at face value.
Haha, you dont get it obviously. Im not going to explain myself to somebody with little brain cells. Stop trying to criticise and create pointless drama with the hope of making yourself sound 'intelligent' when in fact i was trying to help the man. Go post some pointless shit replies to some other victim, please.
>It really doesn't make sense. Running a Fortune 500 company, being a General in the military, being a star athlete, musician...
>
>Those people don't have special abilities or talents?
State interviews have limited eye contact, because of the documentation that has to be kept. You do have to know your stuff though.
Source - I've worked State jobs for the past 15 years, in 2 different states.
This is insanely unhelpful advice but I take a dose of benzos when I anticipate a triggering situation that's work related, it's not at all sustainable but I can usually adjust to the new situation and people and then I don't need them
Customer service is sensory nightmare
I wouldn't need em jus getting on with a job with minimal social interaction but most minimum wage jobs are customer service
(I'll add I don't make it habit of it it's.literslly when I'm having debilitating anxiety attacks)
Oh I am not devalidating you need it. You sure do and those jobs are sensory hell.
Was just worried for you falling off a 75 foot petrol tank or skewering your favorite coworker on the forklift or mis directing a stream of oxidants towards reductors in a plant at the edge of town where your family lives. And you getting fired if they catch you with pills. Thats all.
I jus got scrip propanol and am so happy it works well, reg benzo use should only be for extreme cases imo they're handed out like tic tacs some places
I have a bud scrip too so I doubt they'd bother drug testing me anyway, that plus the autism makes people thinking I'm high when I'm sober and vice versa lol
People having the occasional toke on some construction I don't have a problem with but not heavy machinery for sure
Euhm are you sure..?
Propanol... You actually mean C3H8OH, like alcohol but with 1 C more? It gets your drunk and is really good at cleaning stuff?
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Propan-1-ol](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Propan-1-ol)
Or maybe propan**olol**? a beta blocker?
xD That sounded really weird for a moment..propanol
I am autistic and have learned everything is a skill. Stop viewing the world in "some people can do x and I can't". Everything is a learnable skill and you can learn to interview well.
I am not saying you can learn to be the best interviewer, but I think you can work yourself into the top 20% of anything.
I don’t think i will be allowed to drive due to Having ADHD and Autism and ODD but not getting a Job must really Sting. Feel bad for you, fellow comrade.
dude are you me?? because this is exactly my problem. i can't look at people and i can't understand basic things regardless of how many ways/times it's explained, and everyone is pressuring me to get a job
My question was far more induced by the financial status of OP than anythimg about the autism experience. (The reason I read it at all is because I experience simikar work problems.)
But sadly I do not have a rich daddy.
And, no,I will never shut up any more. I will use my voice.
sorry.
seriously i am. reddit might be glitching for me because i all that showed up for me was "hmm is this a troll" so i couldn't see the other part about it.
I feel the same way. I got an IT certification, a UX design certificiation, and a degree and I still can't be hired. Maybe Dr. Asperger was right to send autistic people like me to Auschwitz. I hate myself, because my autism makes me worthless to employers.
If you have to tell someone you’re not autistic, isn’t it detrimental? I mean, autists are well known to apply for jobs that should be out of their league. They can do them, but they are burning themselves out having to run at 120%.
I understand not telling you’re autistic. But at the same time it makes things much harder in that way.
Honestly if this not a Troll.
Volunteer. You can still do somthing, have work but theirs not same pressure that you have as a paid worker.
Thrits not same level of commitment, theirs commitments sure but it's not like you have notice periods or contracts.
Use it as a time to learn, and if you like it you have no legal commitment to carry on.
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My Grandson is autistic. He got his first job with the help of a job coach. It took a few attempts, but he finally got a job as kitchen help in a senior home. He loves it. He is intelligent and sweet but has difficulties with the social day to day stuff. So far it is working out great. He is making decent money and has purpose. He loves the residents and often when I go to pick him up after work, he is sitting talking with them. They adore him. This is helping him with socializing too. Can you try a job coach?
My Grandson went to ARC for the coaching once he graduated high school. They help a lot of autistic kids find jobs. They helped him do a resume (and he had zero work experience). They went with him to interviews. It was amazing help. I took him there for an hour once a week to be with his coach. They even run their own coffee shop at a local area that people in ARC work at to gain hospitality experience. And they have a packaging line to gain factory experience. Even a dog groomers if you love animals. These teaching jobs are even paid! It was the best help he could have had, give them a call.
I would recommend a job where you don’t deal with people. Amazon, or stocker in a grocery store or else car pickup. I work at Kroger as a pickup and I love it. I do the same thing every day. Show up, grab my harvester, grab my route and the rolling tote cart. Put the labels on the cart, scan and then set off. Walk in circles all day, almost never speak to customers aside from a random question about where a product is, and then put the totes on the shelf and grab another route. It’s a physically demanding job, those carts get super heavy, and I walk about 12-17k steps a day. But there’s almost no social interaction and grocery stores are just looking for someone who fogs a mirror.
I would suggest warehouse kind of work. Typically you have many locations you have to go to in the Warehouse and it tells you how many items you have to pick very basic. You work with a team of other people doing the same thing, but you're on your own to complete the orders. It can pay pretty good depending where you go. When I started this line of work 8 years ago, I was making $11 an hour I'm up to $25 an hour now. I recommend it, iit's not too hard, it's busy work. Plus I like the fact you're basically working solo, granted you work with a team but they're all doing separate work orders and your responsible for your own orders.
The job that I like best as an autistic person is washing dishes. You don't have to talk to anyone and you just focus on the dishes. It's also something I am good at because I like monotomous work. Maybe it is something for you? Many restaurants are looking for people to wash the dishes
Hi I'm autistic and a manager, so I sort through CVs and conduct job interviews for my department. I struggled a lot with job interviews myself so here are a few tips which might help. * Can it with the self-deprecation. Like your username for example. I used to do it a lot too, but it doesn't help. It just makes the people you meet go "okay then, I guess you are since you're telling me that." * Confidence is a self fulfilling prophecy, go in telling yourself you got this. It doesn't matter how much sense it makes, or whether you believe it or not, just tell yourself it over and over again. * Look at the forehead just above the eyebrows if you can't remain eye contact. You want to be looking at the person conducting the interview, but focus on specific things at a time. Shirt collar, eyebrows, nose, etc. * Don't be honest. I used to trip over this, but when they say "what are your weaknesses" don't be honest. Keep it mundane and light, like "*sometimes I can get too detail oriented and loose sight of the picture bigger*" and then provide a way of how you'd correct this behaviour "*which has taught me to really listen to what my colleagues are saying.*" * If you don't want to handshake, then do some other gesture first, i.e a slight head bow or bring your hand to your chest. If they act funny about it, say it's because of covid. * Don't tell them that you're autistic. This is controversial, and personally I could be cool with it, but others might not be so I wouldn't risk it. * Talking wise, try and keep the ball in the air. Radio silence is always worse then chattiness. * Interviewers are not antagonists, they are more then likely somewhat busy and tired, and want to find someone to fit the role. That's just some general advice, hope it helps!
>Don't tell them that you're autistic. This. I recently attended a speech by someone with ADHD and is a hiring manager. I met him and spoke with him about autism and the difficulties with getting an interview when you disclose that you're autistic Is it ethical to not mention you're autistic? No. But if you don't disclose that, it's not the end of the world
How can you avoid telling the manager you're autistic if you'll receive help on site like a job coach? Wouldn't they need to know why someone is helping you at work?
Not everyone with autism would require someone like a job coach on site But if you did need someone like that on the job with you, then you'd definitely need to disclose that information
I would which is why I asked. And the fact that you'd need to tell them is conflicting with these people saying not to tell them. I was just confused :(
Usually getting a job is more than 1 interview round. Wait until the last round when contract, salary , worktimes is discussed. You might still loose out.But if you mention it from scratch you are deminishing your chances very much.
I don't think I'll ever work a salary job :/
I did/tried for 20 years (with 4 years self employed in between) . After about 15 years , with lots and lots of burn outs and depressions, I was so exhausted and traumatised that I couldn't keep more than a year contract (usual minimumvthey offer in my line of work). Maybe it just is not healthy for some of us? At least not full time. I am now much happier with my volunteerjob. But good financial social security is a part of that.
> still loose out *lose *Learn the difference [here](https://www.merriam-webster.com/words-at-play/lose-vs-loose-usage#:~:text=%27Lose%27%20or%20%27Loose%27%3F&text=Lose%20typically%20functions%20only%20as,commonly%2C%20a%20noun%20or%20adverb).* *** ^(Greetings, I am a language corrector bot. To make me ignore further mistakes from you in the future, reply `!optout` to this comment.)
I would think though that they would fire you later if you say you are, because you lied to them. I don't know how likely it is, but it doesn't seem worth it. Plus, if they accept it outright, it might work out better in the long run, so it's pretty much the only thing I would consider if I ever wanted to have a job (currently not really interested in employment for other people, especially not in hourly wages)
unless they ask directly "are you autistic?" which is unlikely anyway given the ball-ache it would cause for HR reasons, how it leaving it out of an interview lying?
I would think more about indirect questions, like "can you communicate well", "are there any mental differences" etc. If you wouldn't want to disclose anything, you would have to lie there, or not?
Definitely. By Dutch law (where I live) you are never legally obliged to give medical information to your employer. And even if you divulge this information, your employer is never allowed to record your medical information other than legally needed *like they can record that you had a sick day, but not why you were on sick leave* That being said, I have always told recruiters/interviewers what my medical difficulties are when it affects my performance. Like my visual disorders cause me to be a slow reader and such, and my hypermobility causes me to need a flexible work space, like I could work two handed and suddenly have both shoulders dislocated where I should find a new way to work asap. This is however vastly different if you only have autism which does not affect you in such a way that you are less productive than your colleagues.
I fucking hate not being honest. I once wrote a thank you letter because I realized that the interviewer was exhibiting the same things that I do such as the lack of eye contact, mumbling, etc. I guess it is was too much a shit sandwich but I genuinely appreciated that he was not super fake positive like the other ones. I have no problem with maintaining a job but it is definitely the getting a job that is the hard part for me. I was unemployed for a year which did lead to my diagnosis. It takes an incredible amount of energy to prepare for an interview and I never do well. (The job that I am at I never applied for or did any of the networking that I also don't know how to do.) I basically have to be a different person. I'm not sure how much I mask but preparing is definitely that times ten or a hundred. (I emphasize with those that can never hold a job. That got to be difficult. I am super scared of the next time that I have to search for a job.)
I think this sounds pretty much like "lie to them so you can get the results". Imo that's pretty irresponsible. I would rather be rejected on honest answers than get money based on lies like talking BS about weaknesses, selling yourself etc, because then they obviously will observe you and can fire you on the basis on having lied to them, especially if the interviews are recorded. I think when take this into consideration, it's much better to not get a job by saying your autistic than getting it and then working somewhere that's not suited for you on a lie, where you can't really tell anyone later that you are lest you want to be accused of deceit and lose it all, it just doesn't seem worth it (unless you really are in a life or death situation and there are no benefits to sustain yourself on, that would be different situation where you probably would have to do anything that's legally okay to get by)
The entire point of a job interview is to sell yourself, you are fundamentally presenting yourself as an asset which can maximise cost efficacy for the company. Personally, I'd say it's better to get a job and grab cash when you can. If you don't like it then at least you've got a month's rent in your pocket. And by lying, I mean basic interviewee advice like when asked "what are your biggest weaknesses" don't say "sometimes I fall into deep depression, don't shower for four days, and spend all my time gazing at my phone screen." But if you'd rather be honest about that, be my guest. Or saying that you've got four years experience at a company when I can see online that you only graduated last year. And my medical background is none of my employees business if I don't want it to be. It's not deceit, it's me having boundaries.
In terms of money, I agree but only if you have no options. I wouldn't want to be bound to a company, having to sit up the time there, if they don't want me to begin with if you understand that. That doesn't sound quite right to me. In terms of the weaknesses question, I would rather answer that I can't really say that because I'm not good observing and comparing myself since I don't know a lot of people. That's honest, at least, rather than saying my weakness is "being too perfect" or so. Lying about having experience is something I think I could never do. I would also be too afraid about legal liabilities about that stuff, I would at least presume that lying about facts like this is at least a civil offence. I don't think of me being autistic as a medical thing, but I agree with you that it's private, I don't shout it before me when I'm buying bread at a bakery for example. But I would be wary if I am dependent on someone not knowing my limits and potentially being able to force me to do things outside of what I can mentally manage to live through. To the principle point: yes, in some way you're selling yourself, but I think that's already happened when you applied and said that you are willing to do that for them. After all, it's not my job to tell them what they are looking for. I expect them to tell me what they want me to do, then I can tell them if I would be willing or not. I don't think I should lie, because that will become obvious later, and that simply means I would answer the question without any tricks, and then they can decide if it's worth it. I don't really see what's wrong about that position
Jobs are not allowed to ask about your disability. It’s voluntary information. Companies can get in trouble for not hiring you because you disclosed a disability. It’s called discrimination. They’ll judge you based on your interview. They can’t fire you later for being autistic, that’s illegal.
Another tip: turn the spotlight on the interviewer and company, this is your future and time, make sure these guys are cut out to get it. It totally changes your heads perception and way of walking in and this easily throws the interviewer through a loop usually for the better.
Mostly agree, your advice especially regarding eye contact, handshakes and confidence is valuable. (Covid has been amazing for no handshaking :>, I am hypersensitive to touch and sound so I physically could not do them) However, regarding don't tell them you're autistic, it depends where you are. Maybe in the US yes, but in the UK for example we have an obligation to interview anyone with a disability, and the best thing to do is just put it on your application. I am also a manager that hires for my own team but also interviews and completes paperwork and inductions for some of my colleagues if I have time. Employers have a legal responsibility to make reasonable adjustments. If you feel they have ignored your application, you have a right to request feedback. If they interview you, and no matter how well it goes but you are refused, you can request feedback. If you receive feedback but you think they have made up another reason not to hire you when it's just because of your disability, you can speak to Citizens Advice Bureau for up to date advice. Honestly because of the legal minefield most people will just interview regardless, if it works out it works out. Note: they do not legally owe you a job. This is all to protect people not being hired when they are perfectly qualified but have some disability, or can do the job with minir adjustments, eg customer service with one arm, you can do that or, I read a lot about adjustments for deaf employees when I had to do research. However, if someone in a wheelchair applies for working on an oil rig or those technicians that climb pylons, it is not possible to do even with adjustments. I also realise that I focused far too much on one specific point and I don't want this to come as an attack, just a different perspective. 😅 Also I am not speaking for Roses OP, but from my own experience it took a _long time_ for me to get to this stable job. I was only diagnosed a month ago so for the last 8 years it's just been assumed I am a stereotypically 'difficult bitch' (thanks previous bosses!) with mental health issues. Nope, just turns out I was overstimulated and having meltdowns, and the majority of my issues were down to the classic undiagnosed female autism. It took me about 5 years to learn sufficient people skills to be given my promotions (I work in catering so my job is mostly physical labour with my close knit kitchen team, and then solo office work the rest of the time) and I've been here so long higher managers and auditors have generally realised that I'm good at my job if I am left to it 😂 Employment is a difficult road, and you can definitely make it work. Lacking necessity may make it more difficult, but it is an important process that can help you learn about yourself. Sorry for ramble but at least I know you guys all understand 😂😂
some jobs may be willing to just do a trial basis instead of an interview, especially if the job doesn't require social interaction.
Ok And I feel like 99.999999% jobs require socializing and im looking for the 0.0000001 that wont require it but i hope im wrong
you could look into ones that are based around stocking. there's also ones based around record keeping and inputting data. and ofc manual labor tends to not require much interaction, so you could look into something like landscaping or general upkeep, lots of larger places like cemeteries might be looking for somebody to do maintenance and upkeep. id do that if i didn't have other physical stuff stopping me. most jobs might not let u speak to actually nobody, but there are a good amount where you'll only talk to like one person and those interactions are just around what they're asking you to do.
I wish I didn't have to work honestly, I absolutely hate it
There is a labour shortage. If you try hard enough you will find a job, just don't shoot for the stars. Try a warehouse or a supermarket. If that doesn't work out try volunteer work to get some experience
Good idea
There is not and never has been a labor shortage. Our whole system is dependent on there being a reserve army of labor, that is, an army of unemployed, in order for your boss to be able to remind you that there are 10 other people out there who want your job whenever you start doing things like talking about labor rights or asking for a raise. A labor shortage implies there are more jobs than people to do them. This has never at any point in history been the case.
THIS. This is the only truth. Labor Shortage is BS
Screw that. Shoot for the stars.
What kind of job are you looking for?
I always wanted a job that nobody else wants because the job sucks and it pays bad
If you can handle large and often cranky crowds, the front end at Walmart could be something. They hire EXTREMELY easily, sometimes you won't even need an interview
Just being reminded of the concept of a job gives me an anxiety attack. The reason why has to do with MIXED MESSAGES that make myself feel "unemployable".
Don't tell them you have autism until after you get hired, trust me. Just keep trying, if you do enough interviews you will get hired. Just fake it until you make it, practice your talking voice, smiling and hand shake.
I’d say the opposite, if there’s space to explain how autism presents in you and you’re not applying for a job you’re going to find challenging then it could make them more understanding in the interview. If you’re applying for a warehouse job for example then a lack of eye contact isn’t going to affect how you carry out the role.
That does not work in the real world. I would not have a job right now if I had taken your advice.
No need to be rude, I’ve known people who have done just that and it’s helped when they’ve been struggling to get past the interview stage.
Are you in the U.S? My sister is a job coach for people with disabilities of all sorts including autism. Their are programs and organizations out there that will help you find a job, maintain the job and do weekly checks etc with you and more. There is something called DDA (Developmental Disability Administration) and they do life long support. Check it out and maybe they can help or something similar.
I know your struggle. It’s hard for me to maintain a job when I get one and I have trouble finding a job. I recently got wrote up for not being “outgoing and socialable. You’ll find one eventually. Try to find one that’s remote and interviews are by phone or video
i feel the same way in life
I would start with volunteering if I were in that position. Food banks, animal shelters, and other places aren't too picky about social skills for volunteers. They want someone who can't sort stuff, walk a dog, play with cats for an hour or two, or do some basic cleaning. Avoid the 'pay to volunteer' places. They are more about feeling good about volunteering and getting the donation pitch than actually doing anything. The advantage of starting with volunteering is most volunteering experiences are short times and start as one-time experiences unless you and the organization want to continue. It lets you opt out politely if it's not for you. It also lets you explore different options. Even in this situation it can lead to a paid job. I knew someone who volunteered at a small animal shelter (6 employees). After three months of volunteering a part time position opened up and they were offered the job. Most require you to fill out an application online. It's mostly so they can Google you and run your name through a local law enforcement database to make sure you aren't a violent felon or associated with something like a white supremacy group. It can take a few weeks for them to have time to do it so don't let that discourage you. Good luck.
Find a passion, or two or three, then learn as much as you can. It provides a starting point. Example; I love rocks, they come in so many colors, strengths, textures, etc. And so many of them can be polished and be just stunning. From there I started rock hounding, which is going and finding my own. Turns out you can make a living doing that. Some people even do very well for themselves that way. (I would probably do ok if I sold them, but I kinda horde them instead.) There are a lot of things like that. Money can be made in ways people don't except.
You're getting interviews? Most applications require me to submit medical history and once they see *Autism* my application is instantly denied.
I am sorry for you, but you need to remember this: stop trying to live up to societys' 'expectations'. You have unique talents as an autistic individual. I know youve got them somewhere. So do those. Dont try and be like 'normal people'. 'Normal people' are in fact boring with no special abilities or talents, unlike autistic people. So my advice would be: do whatever you are passionate about and strive to make it a career.
Is this supposed to be a joke?
Er.... no
Yeah I'm not sure either
What are you going on about?? Make sense, please
So why did you say `You have unique talents as an autistic individual` and `Normal people' are in fact boring with no special abilities or talents, unlike autistic people` You can troll here I guess, until you get banned, but it's not really fair to the other people who are going to take your words at face value.
Haha, you dont get it obviously. Im not going to explain myself to somebody with little brain cells. Stop trying to criticise and create pointless drama with the hope of making yourself sound 'intelligent' when in fact i was trying to help the man. Go post some pointless shit replies to some other victim, please.
what
What
>It really doesn't make sense. Running a Fortune 500 company, being a General in the military, being a star athlete, musician... > >Those people don't have special abilities or talents?
State interviews have limited eye contact, because of the documentation that has to be kept. You do have to know your stuff though. Source - I've worked State jobs for the past 15 years, in 2 different states.
This is insanely unhelpful advice but I take a dose of benzos when I anticipate a triggering situation that's work related, it's not at all sustainable but I can usually adjust to the new situation and people and then I don't need them
You do not work at a chemical plant or with heavy machinery then?
Not at all, god no, just serving drinks
Customer service is sensory nightmare I wouldn't need em jus getting on with a job with minimal social interaction but most minimum wage jobs are customer service (I'll add I don't make it habit of it it's.literslly when I'm having debilitating anxiety attacks)
Oh I am not devalidating you need it. You sure do and those jobs are sensory hell. Was just worried for you falling off a 75 foot petrol tank or skewering your favorite coworker on the forklift or mis directing a stream of oxidants towards reductors in a plant at the edge of town where your family lives. And you getting fired if they catch you with pills. Thats all.
I jus got scrip propanol and am so happy it works well, reg benzo use should only be for extreme cases imo they're handed out like tic tacs some places I have a bud scrip too so I doubt they'd bother drug testing me anyway, that plus the autism makes people thinking I'm high when I'm sober and vice versa lol People having the occasional toke on some construction I don't have a problem with but not heavy machinery for sure
Euhm are you sure..? Propanol... You actually mean C3H8OH, like alcohol but with 1 C more? It gets your drunk and is really good at cleaning stuff? [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Propan-1-ol](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Propan-1-ol) Or maybe propan**olol**? a beta blocker? xD That sounded really weird for a moment..propanol
Yes propanolol woops, phone autocorrected it
I am autistic and have learned everything is a skill. Stop viewing the world in "some people can do x and I can't". Everything is a learnable skill and you can learn to interview well. I am not saying you can learn to be the best interviewer, but I think you can work yourself into the top 20% of anything.
I was discharged from the Army, with a primary reason being Autism caused issues which they described as “bad headaches”
I don’t think i will be allowed to drive due to Having ADHD and Autism and ODD but not getting a Job must really Sting. Feel bad for you, fellow comrade.
dude are you me?? because this is exactly my problem. i can't look at people and i can't understand basic things regardless of how many ways/times it's explained, and everyone is pressuring me to get a job
hmm is this a troll?
It has to be
"someone has different autism experience than me so it must be a troll" shut up
My question was far more induced by the financial status of OP than anythimg about the autism experience. (The reason I read it at all is because I experience simikar work problems.) But sadly I do not have a rich daddy. And, no,I will never shut up any more. I will use my voice.
sorry. seriously i am. reddit might be glitching for me because i all that showed up for me was "hmm is this a troll" so i couldn't see the other part about it.
Don't sweat it. Your apology is really accepted.
I feel the same way. I got an IT certification, a UX design certificiation, and a degree and I still can't be hired. Maybe Dr. Asperger was right to send autistic people like me to Auschwitz. I hate myself, because my autism makes me worthless to employers.
If you have to tell someone you’re not autistic, isn’t it detrimental? I mean, autists are well known to apply for jobs that should be out of their league. They can do them, but they are burning themselves out having to run at 120%. I understand not telling you’re autistic. But at the same time it makes things much harder in that way.
Honestly if this not a Troll. Volunteer. You can still do somthing, have work but theirs not same pressure that you have as a paid worker. Thrits not same level of commitment, theirs commitments sure but it's not like you have notice periods or contracts. Use it as a time to learn, and if you like it you have no legal commitment to carry on.
Why do you doubt the sincerity?
probably something like "people having different autism experience than me is fake and bad"
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My Grandson is autistic. He got his first job with the help of a job coach. It took a few attempts, but he finally got a job as kitchen help in a senior home. He loves it. He is intelligent and sweet but has difficulties with the social day to day stuff. So far it is working out great. He is making decent money and has purpose. He loves the residents and often when I go to pick him up after work, he is sitting talking with them. They adore him. This is helping him with socializing too. Can you try a job coach?
how do i find a job coach
My Grandson went to ARC for the coaching once he graduated high school. They help a lot of autistic kids find jobs. They helped him do a resume (and he had zero work experience). They went with him to interviews. It was amazing help. I took him there for an hour once a week to be with his coach. They even run their own coffee shop at a local area that people in ARC work at to gain hospitality experience. And they have a packaging line to gain factory experience. Even a dog groomers if you love animals. These teaching jobs are even paid! It was the best help he could have had, give them a call.
contact your state's disability services department
I would recommend a job where you don’t deal with people. Amazon, or stocker in a grocery store or else car pickup. I work at Kroger as a pickup and I love it. I do the same thing every day. Show up, grab my harvester, grab my route and the rolling tote cart. Put the labels on the cart, scan and then set off. Walk in circles all day, almost never speak to customers aside from a random question about where a product is, and then put the totes on the shelf and grab another route. It’s a physically demanding job, those carts get super heavy, and I walk about 12-17k steps a day. But there’s almost no social interaction and grocery stores are just looking for someone who fogs a mirror.
I've been thinking of doing this but I was extremely unsure cause I am afraid my processing time would've been far too off-putting for pickup.
I would suggest warehouse kind of work. Typically you have many locations you have to go to in the Warehouse and it tells you how many items you have to pick very basic. You work with a team of other people doing the same thing, but you're on your own to complete the orders. It can pay pretty good depending where you go. When I started this line of work 8 years ago, I was making $11 an hour I'm up to $25 an hour now. I recommend it, iit's not too hard, it's busy work. Plus I like the fact you're basically working solo, granted you work with a team but they're all doing separate work orders and your responsible for your own orders.
The job that I like best as an autistic person is washing dishes. You don't have to talk to anyone and you just focus on the dishes. It's also something I am good at because I like monotomous work. Maybe it is something for you? Many restaurants are looking for people to wash the dishes
Ever thought about starting a small business or something like that? Even if it doesn't make much money it'll give you something productive to do.