I started my first job when I was sixteen. I had been volunteering with activities at a local nursing home and I wanted to do more. One of the positions that was open for kids my age was a junior server. I applied as quickly as I could.
What I found in my first few days of work was that it was way different than I’d anticipated. The kitchen was a completely different environment that the activity room. It was extremely fast-paced and full of sounds and smells and demands. On top of that, I had a coworker that convinced everyone else I didn’t need training. I had to jump right in and race her so she could get done with her shift early. Additionally, my uniform was way too big and my coordination was way off. The cart was very difficult to maneuver. Most of the residents teased me while I poured their coffee. Some found it amusing to change their orders on me as I walked away. It was incredibly stressful for me.
Needless to say, this job was really unfriendly for an autistic person with my symptoms. While others were able to manage it fine, it just wasn’t a good fit for people like me. So how can autistic people find a job that’s right for them? Here’s some tips I’ve learned throughout the years.
Consider the work itself. When looking at jobs to apply for, it’s super important to consider what you’ll be doing. Are you physically, emotionally, and mentally able to do your work? Is it something you have experience in or can learn easily? Will it keep your interest? Do you enjoy it? These are all great questions to ask yourself when considering different jobs.
Check the location. You’ll want to make sure the job is nearby or in a place you’re planning to move to. Make sure you have adequate transportation to get you back and forth. If you’d like, you can also apply for an online job that you can do anywhere (as long as you’re connected to the internet!) Additionally, check that the surroundings are safe.
Ask a friend or family member what their experiences have been with different jobs. This is an awesome step to take in your job search! If a job worked for your loved one, there’s a chance it might work for you. Ask them what jobs were most enjoyable and most challenging. Use their advice to tailor a vision for yourself. An added bonus of having these conversations – possible referrals for your application.
Make sure the pay is enough. Consider your financial goals and how a job could help you reach them. Are you a child or teen looking for some fun money to spend on whatever you’d like? Are you a little older and saving for college, a house, or retirement? Do you already have a home and bills you’re responsible for? Think about your responsibilities and future and make sure the job’s pay meets or exceeds these goals.
Visit the place ahead of time. This is a huge step in finding a good job. By doing this, you’ll gain familiarity with the environment and get a better sense of where you’d be working. Also, you get the opportunity to make professional connections. You can even meet your potential boss and coworkers ahead of time and decide if they’re people you’d like to work with.
Make connections. There’s that word again – connections! These are extremely important in the professional world. Connections enable you to gain information and find new opportunities. They can also link you to other people and recommend your skills.
Ask a friend, family member, or professional contact if they have any opportunities or recommendations for you. This is actually one of the main ways in which people find jobs – and typically, these are much more personalized and enjoyable than standard online postings. Someone you know can be a great help in finding your next gig.
Update your social media. When searching for a job, you’ll want to keep your social media nice and fresh. Employers look at your pages! Delete any posts that are overly negative, contain foul language, or show things inappropriate for the workplace, such as suggestive material, substance use, violence, and strong political or religious statements. Some examples of things that are okay to keep up include pictures with friends and family, vacation memories, kind greetings, clean jokes, and pets. Employers want to know that you’re a positive, open person who exhibits kind, appropriate behavior. Your online reputation is important! Aside from cleaning up your existing pages, make sure you join a website such as LinkedIn and update your profile with your skills and experience. These sites are also great at helping you build connections and find new opportunities!
I wish I’d known all these tips when I was a teenager. Now, I use them all the time when finding new work!
My first job ended after only a few days. With all that pressure in such an overwhelming environment, I learned a very important lesson in regards to work – it’s okay to quit. Some people will push endurance, but honestly, your health and well-being are much more valuable than any job. Jobs are temporary, but you’ll be a central focus in your own life from the beginning to the end. They’re also a tool in helping you find satisfaction, not the satisfaction itself, and if that tool isn’t working, it’s okay to discard it and find a new one.
Best of luck to you in your job search! Remember to work hard and keep these tips in mind. With a good attitude and an air of professionalism, you are sure to succeed!