Intensive Support • Mid-Career • Goal 1:
Prepare to Change Jobs
Action step 1.
Develop a transition plan for adjusting to your new job.
Moving into a new job can be stressful, even in the best of situations. Getting a new job or accepting a promotion brings a lot of change. Even if you're considering a new job within the same company, it’s important to think about how key aspects of the job might be different than what you're used to. You'll likely have new responsibilities, a new manager and a new team.
Creating a transition plan might make this adjustment process easier. A transition plan involves creating a step-by-step plan of things to do so you don't become overwhelmed. A transition plan may include any of the following:
- Updating your resume
- Reviewing your disability benefits
- Setting a date to give your employer two weeks notice
- Reviewing accommodations or supports needed to be successful in the workplace
Resources
Action step 2.
Consider the pros and cons of the new position.
Before switching jobs, it is important to consider if this new work opportunity is a positive change. You don't need to take the first job opportunity that comes your way, especially if it isn’t as beneficial as the one you currently have. When you make your list of the pros and cons of the new job, reflect on the following questions:
- Will the hours be increased, reduced or stay the same?
- Will the commute be longer, shorter or the same?
- Will my income increase, be reduced or stay the same.
- What is the workplace environment like?
- Will there be a gap in my benefits when switching jobs?
Resources
Action step 3.
Review work-related "soft skills."
While every career field requires different technical skills and knowledge, success in any field also depends on soft skills. These include things like work ethic, teamwork, organization, willingness to learn and creative problem solving. Consider which soft skills might be needed if you change jobs and how they align with your strengths. In some cases, you may have to ask your employer for accommodations to address your differences in soft skills.
Talk to a support person who can help you identify which soft skills are areas of strength for you. You can also talk about strategies to improve in other areas.
Resources
Words to know
Action step 4.
Prepare for job interviews.
After you apply for a job, you might be contacted for a phone, video or in-person interview. Job interviews can be stressful, but they are just a type of conversation that gives you and the employer a chance to find out if you are a good match. Remember — this is your opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the organization, workplace environment and company culture.
Some autistic people find that working out answers to common interview questions and practicing through role-play helps them stay calm and feel more confident. If verbal communication is a challenge for you, you can use another communication method. You can also ask that a support person such as a job coach be allowed to attend with you.
