Work and Autism Spectrum Disorder

Transition to work may commence with a part time job while you are still at school or it may not start until you complete your secondary school education. Think about your interests and skills and begin to make plans. Consider how your ASD might impact upon your choices and what things are realistic and what things could be put in place to help you.

To make a start think about what areas you are interested in working in. Talk with your teachers about subjects that you should select over the next few years that would help get a job in the area. Discuss the job area you are thinking about so you can get more information about the number of jobs available, types of jobs, whether you would have to do further study and how you would look for a job.

Discuss with your teachers if they are able to link you with someone in the industry so you can get a better understanding of the job requirements and possibly some volunteer or work experience. Ask your teacher to help you develop a resume. A resume introduces you to an employer by listing your personal details, skills, interests, any work experience or voluntary work you have done, any awards or achievements and your referees. Referees are important people that an employer will phone to get further information about you to see if you are a suitable employee.

Discuss with your teachers and family where to look and apply for a job and how to submit an application.  Every job usually requires you to have an interview. Ask your teacher to help you prepare for an interview by setting a meeting time, helping you to decide what to wear and asking you questions similar to those that would be asked in an interview.

Skills and interests

Think about areas of interest for possible employment

Talk with your teachers

Ask your teachers advice about jobs and what might be required

Select your subjects

After talking with teachers review your subject choices