Work and Autism: What Employers Should Know About Neurodiversity

Work and autism can sometimes be challenging, but some types of jobs may play to the strengths of someone on the spectrum.I am sometimes asked whether being on the spectrum is a factor when it comes to work and autism.  

Well, yes. And no. So the answer is complicated, and it really just depends. That can be said for today’s workforce in general, because the ways companies attract and maintained their workforce has changed significantly since the pandemic.

Work and autism can be an advantage in some ways and a disadvantage in others. With reasonable care and accommodation, if needed, individuals with autism can be successful on the job.

Advantages of an Autistic Worker

Neurodiversity can be a massive advantage in many types of jobs as they pertain to work and autism. Why? Because just like in sports, it can allow a person to completely focus on and be really good at a job.

Whether it’s coding,  cooking food, writing, making deliveries, or whatever it is, individuals with autism can often display a sense of hyper focus, willingness to “deep dive” (although I don’t like this overused phrase too much), and be detailed on facts, correctness, and meeting customer needs.

Jobs or careers that require research and analysis are often very good for individuals with work and autism. Technology is a good choice, and since I have training in that field as well, I’m told that many people are likely those who exhibit traits of it. 

In fact, Elon Musk and Bill Gates are said to both have Asperger’s Syndrome, which is what I have been diagnosed with.  As you know, they have done quite well for themselves.

(Learn more about autism vs. Asperger’s syndrome.)

Another advantage is that individuals with autism often have interests in particular areas and really focus on those niches. While other people may find routine and limited focus limiting, it is often not felt for those on the spectrum.

Now I can’t say this enough: Everyone is different and no two people with autism feel the same or have the same interests, just like society in general.

So these are just comments by me in terms of things I have been told and experienced. I am not trying to categorize anyone, but in a generality, it is said that these type of positions work well with work and autism.

Work and Autism:  My Early Jobs

My earliest jobs were a mix of being good, great, and not so good. I was a lifeguard at a water park and I really enjoyed that. I was told I was good because I really focused on watching swimmers and on safety rules.

While there was a team of lifeguards, we really worked alone in an area. That was probably the best job I had as a teenager.

But because that was seasonal, I did other things as well.  I worked at a pizza place, but behind the scenes. I was primarily a dishwasher. Although I stayed with that job for over a year, but it wasn’t great. I got really wet all the time and had to deal with people’s half eaten food and grease.

I learned a lot in that job and everyone was nice to me, but I don’t plan to ever work in fast food again.

A not-so-good job I did briefly was working at a movie theater. We waited outside of the theater and when movies let out we were supposed to go in and sweep up all the popcorn, throw away trash, and do anything needed to get it ready for a next showing.

I didn’t like it because of the nasty things you find with spilled drinks, gum, etc. So this whole work and autism thing didn’t work for me very well there.

Disadvantages of an Autistic Worker

Trying to be social and fitting in can be stressful at times with work and autism, but understanding employees and supportive workplaces can help.There are also disadvantages of being on the spectrum as it relates to work and autism. Some of the pros/cons may vary as to whether it is an early job (like a high school part-time variety) or a professional career type. 

The reason I mention the types it because it could be easier for some autistics to be successful at a job that is seasonal or part time only vs. one that requires full-time work and going into an office or work environment every day.

The biggest disadvantage I have found, and one that is repeated over and over by others, is that people with autism often have poor social skills. Since so much of work is reliant on effective communications and building a positive rapport with others, it can impact a person’s overall success in a position.

(Read about 8 popular ways to manage and master autistic social awkwardness and avoiding these oversocializing and autism pitfalls. )

The Dreaded Interview

Not having good social skills can be a problem from the very beginning, because job candidates have to interview for positions. An interview can be stressful for anyone but probably even more so for someone with autism.

The social banter that can come with an interview in terms of an icebreaker or the dreaded “tell me about yourself” question can hurt our chances before we have a chance to show an employer how great we can be. One way that neurodivergent individuals try and overcome these potentially-awkward experiences and fit in with others is through masking, often called code switching. 

But, doing so can take its toll in mental health because trying to “fit in” can be exhausting. It can also lead to increased anxiety. 

A plus is that many companies seem to be realizing that someone with ASD can be a great hire in terms of work and autism, and additional training and awareness with employers often lets interviewers see the potential in someone beyond their ability to talk their way into a position.

As a result, individuals might be given a pass in interviewing technique of given an alternative screening to determine overall fit with an organization because they have good potential.

Work and Autism: More Autism Awareness Is Needed With Employers

I have experienced interviews that have gone really badly without much follow up and lacking conversations.  I have also experienced interviews that have gone well.

I have identified myself as having autism and the person doing the interview seems to understand that I may not be chatty.

(Learn more about autism disclosure and whether revealing your disorder is helpful or hurtful.)

But with understanding means that I am able to show off my skills, explain why I would like a job, and discuss why autism could be advantage to them.

I do think the corporate world is realizing how valuable it is having autistic employees, so I tell people to take advantage of it!

According to Nathan Chung, an autistic renowned for advocating diversity and inclusion, a major barrier to autism acceptance is “ableism.” He recently was quoted as saying, “Organizations often view people with disabilities negatively and as a burden, focusing on what they cannot do instead of what they can do. The script needs to be switched.” 

I couldn’t agree more, and autism acceptance through education and understanding is a key purpose of why I started this blog.

Work and Autism:  What Type Of Career is Best?

In terms of careers, being an individual contributor is often a preferred option over being a supervisor or manager when talking about work and autism.  

Don’t get me wrong.  I’m not saying you shouldn’t be one or another. Your career path should be up to you and your strengths and weaknesses.

Typically, however, being an individual contributor allows you time to do your own job and not focus on the social dynamics as much.

Plus, when you are an individual contributor, you can achieve goals and tasks and not be as reliant on teamwork, which can be a huge social issue when communications are not clear and precise.

Managers have even more challenges because the dynamics can get complex and sometimes even frustrating. That’s because supervising others has its own set of issues.

There are ways to work on teamwork so that if managing others is a goal, it is achievable. Sometimes team building can be start with basics by playing team sports, being part of a team with gaming, and working on your own motivation, discipline, and self awareness.

(Read about 10 best competitive strategies for autism and ways to make challenges fun.)

I’ve never supervised anyone in a professional capacity, but I’ve heard from my parents, siblings, and others that it stressful for anyone.

It’s not anything I want to tackle anytime soon  in terms of work and autism but I will figure it out. 

Autism in Adults:  Living, Learning, and Overcoming Challenges for a Fulfilled Life

Autism in adults requires additional support and coping skills to achieve independence in today’s world. Learn more about ways adults can live fulfilled lives and the challenges they face.

Picture of Connor McClure

Connor McClure

I'm a young adult navigating life with autism. By sharing my experiences and views, I hope to create a better awareness, understanding, and compassion for those on the spectrum. Let's connect!