Job interviews can be nerve-wracking for anyone. For autistic adults, job interviews can be especially intimidating, given the sensory, social, and communication challenges they can present. It can be a high-pressure situation, but never fear – we have some interview tips for autistic adults that will help you feel prepared to land your next job.
Essential Job Interview Tips for Autistic Adults
Employment can be very rewarding, especially for people with disabilities. Getting and keeping a job can be a huge step towards financial independence. Plus, it helps you build self-confidence, develop useful life skills, and find opportunities to grow.
A study from the A.J. Drexel Autism Institute found that young adults on the spectrum were less likely to have a job than people with other disabilities. Building job-seeking skills and having the resources to understand and advocate for reasonable accommodations can help close this gap.
We created these tips to give more autistic adults the tools they need to join the workforce. So, without further ado, let’s take a look!
Before the Interview
It’s important to be well-prepared for any job interview. But what does being prepared mean? Here are some ways you can set yourself up for success:
- Research the company. While you might have already done this when you applied for the job, it’s good to brush up and review details about the business. What are their core values? Do people say good things about them? Do they treat their employees well?
- Review the job description. Re-read the job posting so you can have the responsibilities and requirements fresh in your mind.
- Ask for alternative interview methods if needed. Before the scheduled interview time, request an interview format that works for you. You might opt for a pre-recorded interview, a written interview, or any other format that helps you best express yourself.
- Prepare some questions to ask the interviewer. Asking questions shows interest and thought about the position. For example, you might ask, “How will I be evaluated?” or “What do you like about working here?”
- Practice makes perfect. Have someone you trust ask you typical interview questions so you can practice your answers. Rehearsing common topics that come up in interviews can help prepare you for the real thing.
During the Interview
When it comes time for the scheduled interview, here are some good habits to keep in mind:
- Dress for success. Dress yourself in a way that shows you are professional and respectable. You don’t need to look too fancy, but looking clean and wearing appropriate clothes goes a long way toward making a good impression.
- Use positive body language. Nodding, smiling, and making eye contact when comfortable are good ways to show you are interested and engaged. For virtual or video interviews, keeping your eyes pointed toward the screen is a good practice.
- Take notes. Even though you’re the one being interviewed, the person asking questions will probably share a lot of details, too. It’s good to have a way to make quick notes while they talk so you can keep track of any details you want to remember. But be mindful to not keep your attention solely on note-taking and stay engaged with the person talking.
After the Interview
Once an interview is over, it can be hard to wait for a response. Here are some things you can do while you wait to hear back about the job:
- Follow up. If a week has passed and you haven’t received a message, reach out with a personal message. You can re-state your interest in the job and mention that you enjoyed the interview. This can help keep the employer’s attention on your application. However, you shouldn’t follow up more than once.
- Reflect on the interview. How did it feel for you? Take some time to think about what you did well and what you might do differently next time.
- Plan your next steps. If you receive an offer, prepare for job onboarding, training, and arranging accommodations. If you weren’t picked for the position, think about what you learned from the experience and take those lessons into your continuing job search.
Other Things to Consider
People with disabilities have some decisions to make when it comes to getting a job. Choosing if or when to disclose your disability and ask for accommodation should be a key consideration when looking for employment.
- Disclosure. Most job applications will have a section that asks about applicants’ disabilities. It’s your decision whether you wish to disclose any disability diagnoses or not. Disclosing a disability is only legally required if you need to ask for accommodations to do the job.
- Accommodations. Depending on the position’s responsibilities, you may need to request adjustments to the standard schedule, work environment, or workplace rules to help you do the job well. Companies are required to make reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities. If you know you will need accommodations (such as wearing headphones where they are not normally allowed or using specialized communication tools, for example), you can include that information in the job application or during the interview.
Discover More Tools & Tips for Success
There are lots of great employment opportunities for autistic adults out there, and NeuroNav is here to support you on your journey with helpful tips, guidance, and information. Getting a job is a great way to find more independence and financial freedom.
If you are looking for more support in reaching your goals, California’s Self-Determination Program can help you pay for select services and tools to get you where you want to go. NeuroNav’s independent facilitators will help guide you through the process and advocate for your needs.
Whether you are already enrolled in SDP or interested in learning more, schedule a consultation to see how NeuroNav can help you.