ASD and looking for a job

To find a job the first thing you need to do is to think about the type of work you are looking for. Consider what you are passionate about and think about whether this passion can earn you money. Ask yourself the question, ‘what am I interested in doing?’ You then need to consider your ASD traits, how they will affect you in a work environment and what would need to be present to make a job successful for you. For more help with this head to our About Me  template.

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Some of things you might need to think about are when looking for a job:

  • What are my strengths
  • What skills do I have
  • What am I passionate about and can this be part of a job
  • What is likely to cause me anxiety in a workplace
  • Is it best for me to have a set work space or do I need to move around
  • Do I need a routine job or can I manage change
  • How many hours a week can I work before I get anxious or stressed
  • How far can I travel to a job

Once you have answered these questions it is time to start looking for a job that might suit you. Remember we don’t always get the job we want in our first attempt.

Today most people search for jobs online. Many websites advertise job vacancies, use a search engine such as Google by typing in the search window; jobs online. This will take you to a number of online listings and then you can refine your search further for your choice of job eg. Technology, childcare, hospitality etc.

Family and friends may also have contacts that you can use to discuss employment opportunities. Let people know you are looking for work. Volunteering for a company or workplace is often a good way to start. This way you can see if the environment suits you and if the opportunity for paid work comes up then you may have a better opportunity to gain employment as the boss and work colleagues know you.

If you live in an area that has a local newspaper, these papers usually have a job vacancies section. These jobs may be more suited to you as they are often located in the area that the newspaper is circulated.

Be proactive, show initiative and approach potential employers yourself by sending in or delivering your resume as an expression of interest for any future job openings at businesses you think may be suited to you.

Remember to think carefully about the type of job that may be suited to you, organise your thoughts and then search and apply for a job.

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