Some perspectives on being in work from people on the autistic spectrum and an autism practitioner. Quotes from Autism Initiatives Number 6 Service Users and Andrew Horseman, Number 6 Employment Advice Coordinator.
Not that different? Work is important to me for a sense of purpose, for my self worth and as part of how I define my self as an adult in society I think my skills and abilities can be valuable to an employer If I can find a way to fit in at work and understand how things are done, I think I might manage ok
The first dilemma? Does my employer or maybe my manager and colleagues, need to know about how I think and function? Is it sensible for me to mention autism/asperger Syndrome to my employer? How do I know what people will think and do if I tell them about Asperger Syndrome?
Some common experiences I have told some people at work about Asperger Syndrome, I m not sure if they really understand, but they seem ok about it In a past job I told people and it seemed to make things more complicated than they needed to be There is someone who is very helpful and supportive, although some other people at work I find very difficult and would never tell them about my condition.
A practitioners perspective Being listened to is one of the most valuable things an employer can do for someone on the autistic spectrum. Constructive, supportive relationships can be hugely significant to the well being of an employee with Asperger Syndrome. Situations that don t allow a person to use their strengths and abilities are anxiety provoking for someone with Asperger Syndrome.
Being listened to? It s very difficult to explain my autism to anyone. Sometimes I don t quite understand it myself. Because my diagnosis is quite recent, until recently I found it quite emotionally difficult to say the word autism. Not everything about Asperger Syndrome is relevant to my work. If I can sometimes remind people of what I need and am able to get those things, then my life can become easier.
Supportive relationships. My new manager has arranged regular meetings so that we can have the time to discuss work and how best to progress, which has been very helpful. It might seem like a small thing, but the people at work that are nice and straightforward make a big difference to how my job is. The only way a job can be ok for me is if the people don t involve me in the office politics or pressure me to be someone I m not.
Recognising strengths & ability? I spend quite a lot of my life being unsure of myself, so it s nice to be told I ve done something well. In the past I wouldn t apply for a job if they asked for good communication skills. I now know that, in the right situation, I have the necessary skills. As far as I can tell, everyone struggles with some things at work, it s difficult to know why the things I struggle with seem harder for people to accept. I know I do a good job most of the time.
A practitioners perspective. It seems that many complications for people on the autistic spectrum in employment come about because someone involved isn t sure of what to do for the best. Maintaining constructive communication with the employee is also crucial to progress for everyone involved. Active listening and collaborative problem solving are two of the key factors that contribute to successful sustainable employment.
A practitioners perspective. The willingness to consider the employees needs underpins any successful outcome. I believe successful examples show that this willingness doesn t create more work for the employer, rather it results in productive outcomes. The effect of creative problem solving can also be beneficial in contributing to work place cultures which are beneficial to other employees.
Is it really that easy? We know that work places are dynamic and changeable. It isn t possible to accommodate any employees needs 100%. Many adults with Asperger Syndrome can work with occasional complications. This ability increases when there is trust and evidence that what helps has been acknowledged.
An employee. Employing someone is based on making the decision that they are the right person for the job and the employer. Employing someone is the start of the relationship. Employees rarely come fully formed. Employees can influence and change a business or organisation.
It is not possible to separate the autism from the person --- It is pervasive; it colours every experience, every sensation, perception, thought, emotion, and encounter, every aspect of existence --- and if it were possible, the person you'd have left would not be the same person you started with. Jim Sinclair Don t mourn for us.
The right job. Anyone involved with someone on the autistic spectrum needs to keep an open mind about the persons potential. The right job and any necessary adjustments are a starting point for someone to thrive. Support also needs to be able to provide ideas and solutions when they are needed.
Reasonable adjustments. Flexible working hours Compressed hours Flexible use of annual leave Environmental adjustments Single channel for communication Consistent and updated information Mentoring Information delivered or supported by written text Structured tasks and clear task switching Clear agendas for meetings and notice of necessary contribution Support for unstructured social time Briefing/Debriefing on office politics
Reasonable adjustments. I become unsure what it would be reasonable to ask for. It helps to have someone to discuss ideas with. It s daunting to consider asking my employer for something that other people aren t getting. I don t like to do something that makes me feel more awkward than I do already. I don t think what I need are big demands, but they could make a big difference to me It s frustrating when it seems others can negotiate and get what they need and I can t seem to manage that.
Added value. Most examples of successful jobs are when the employer/employee relationship is healthy and other sources of support add to that relationship when necessary. Support needs to be flexible, responsive, knowledgeable and creative. Support can be a safety net for all concerned.
Not that different? Sometimes I just need to talk about what is happening at work and then I can get on with my job. If I dwell on something about work it becomes a major source of anxiety and I start going round in circles thinking about it. It helps to know I have someone I can ask for a view point about something at work if I need to.