Supporting Minnesotans with ASD to Get Jobs in Technology Fields

Employment and Autism

Employment outcomes for individuals with ASD have traditionally been poor. Finding the right position begins with discovering the interests and skills of the person; assessing the learning style and the work environment. The Autism Society of Minnesota concluded that since people with ASD have difficulties with social cognition and sensory processing, they initially need a more formalized network of support, structured teaching of tasks, ample time to learn the job, and accommodations for sensory differences. The Autism Society of Minnesota advise businesses that these eight accommodations may be the key to successful employment outcomes:

1.       Clarify job expectations
2.       Use visuals to instruct and organize
3.       Communicate in a direct manner
4.       Structure the workplace to avoid distractions or sensory overloads
5.       Minimize multi-task assignments
6.       Allow independent roles, assign a job mentor
7.       Establish job routines
8.       Work with a job coach

For more information about the topic of employment and autism go to these resources: