The total number of people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) worldwide is approaching several tens of millions; in the U.S. alone, there are more than 5 million people (2.21% of the total population) of working age with autism. However, most of them have never even had work experience.
There is a popular myth that people with disabilities don’t need jobs because they have benefits. In fact, employment is important to them not only as a way to earn money, but also as an opportunity for self-esteem and personal development. However, research shows that it is difficult for people with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) to get competitive jobs. Despite their positive attributes and useful skills, they are more likely to be unemployed, only partially employed and receive low wages.
It is thought that around 50-75% of adults with ASD are unemployed. Statistics compiled in the UK give a figure of 85%.
Why people with autism will be successful employees
Employees with ASD have many skills that can benefit a variety of business sectors. For example, research shows that they typically pay close attention to detail, enjoy certain work tasks that their peers may find monotonous or leading to isolation, and bring a different perspective to problems, helping to find innovative solutions. People with autism often prefer repetitive work and do not require constant novelty. Research also shows that they have high levels of reliability, integrity and honesty. They are most often accurate, efficient, and consistent. In addition, employees with autism may show higher productivity in the workplace compared to their peers due to their increased attention to detail, work ethic, and quality of work.
Employment difficulties for people with ASD
Employment difficulties for people with ASD are most often related to soft skills rather than work skills. Therefore, successful employment projects for people with autism are not focused on teaching how to use a computer, but on how to talk about oneself or how to stay in a team. In other words, adaptive skills related to social context and communication. How to get to work, how to get an interview – all of these can be more difficult for a person with autism. He or she needs counselors, supported employment trainers, but at the same time, efforts on the part of the employer, who must be ready for a special approach to employees with ASD, are also important.
Key conditions for successful employment for adults with autism
- Self-regulation and emotion management
One of the key skills is self-regulation. People with autism can use visual tools such as the ‘five-point emotion scale’ to label their state of mind and reduce levels of anxiety or irritation. This helps to prevent inappropriate emotional reactions and adapt to the work environment.
- Effective communication
Unconventional ways of communicating, such as indicator cards (green – everything is clear, red – you need help), help employees with autism communicate their needs in a stress-free way. Also useful are “social stories” that help employees learn the unspoken rules of behavior in the workplace.
- Sensory features
Some people with ASD may have difficulty with noise, odors, or lighting. Considering these characteristics when selecting a location or working environment – e.g., quiet room, limiting odors – can greatly increase comfort and productivity.
- Suitable working environment
It is important to consider the culture of the organization. Strict office dress codes or formal settings will not suit everyone. A personalized approach allows the workplace to be tailored to the individual’s interests and sensory characteristics.
- Focus on strengths
Focusing on unique abilities helps to find unconventional but appropriate roles. Behavior perceived as a problem in one setting may prove to be an advantage in another. The right task unlocks an employee’s potential.
- Practice and life skills
Successful employment requires not only job skills, but also the development of everyday skills: planning, self-care, and adapting to routines. Internships and mentoring help to adapt and prepare for work responsibilities.
Employer and team support
The successful integration of adults with autism into the workplace is not possible without the involvement of the employer and team. Training colleagues on basic principles of interacting with people with ASD helps to reduce prejudice and create an inclusive environment. Even brief training on autism provides employees with an understanding of how to respond appropriately to behavioral and communication issues. For example, it is important to recognize that a lack of eye contact or emotional expression does not mean rudeness or indifference.
Employers can also implement adaptive practices such as flexible schedules, clearly structured tasks, visual instructions, and mentor support. This is not costly, but greatly increases the chances of success for an employee with ASD.
Where people with autism can work
People with autism spectrum disorders can be successful in a wide range of jobs – especially those that value attention to detail, resistance to routine, high levels of concentration and systemic thinking. Here are a few areas where employees with autism are particularly sought after:
1. Information technology and data analysis
Many people with ASD have logical thinking, an aptitude for the exact sciences, and an attention to detail that makes them excellent at:
- software testing (QA),
- data processing and analysis,
- web development,
- technical support.
Some major companies, such as SAP, Microsoft and IBM, have launched inclusive hiring programs specifically targeting people with autism.
2. Administrative and office work
Working with clear and repetitive tasks can be comfortable:
- archiving and scanning documents,
- data entry,
- sorting and organizing information,
- inventory.
If the work environment is adaptable, these positions can be a great start to building a career.
3. Manufacturing and technical specialties
Areas where precision and repeatability are important are also well suited:
- product packaging,
- quality control,
- conveyor belt work,
- equipment maintenance (with appropriate training).
4. Animal care and agriculture
Some adults with autism feel more comfortable working with animals or in a quiet natural setting:
- helping in shelters,
- working on farms,
- caring for horses or small livestock,
- gardening and landscaping.
5. Creative professions
People with ASD may have an unusual perception of the world and a well-developed visual style, which is revealed in:
- illustration and graphic design,
- video editing,
- text writing,
- creating music or sound design.
6. Maintenance and logistics
Examples of suitable tasks:
- sorting parcels or mail,
- cleaning the premises,
- packing of goods,
- short distance deliveries (accompanied if necessary).
Conclusion
Employment of adults with autism is not only a matter of social justice, but also an opportunity for society to unlock valuable potential. With the right support, understanding and adapted working conditions, people with ASD can become reliable, productive and talented employees, contributing to a wide range of areas of work. An inclusive approach opens the way to a fairer and more diverse world of work for all.
