INTRODUCTION
The Autism Speaks Employment Tool Kit
Employment plays an important role in adulthood. It leads to greater financial independence, higher self-esteem and higher rates of participation in the community. These are all known to lead to better health and increased life expectancy. Through employment you can find out more about your interests, discover new ones, explore career options and meet new people.
The goal of this guide is to walk you through the steps to get a job. You will find information to help with the following: figuring out what you want and can do, creating a resume and cover letter, searching for jobs, submitting a job application, interviewing and sending a thank-you note. It will also teach you about
self-advocacy, including accommodations, disclosure and your employment rights.
Throughout, you will read stories from successful autistic adults in various roles and at various stages in their careers. You will also hear from employers and parents who share job tips and advice.
Our Employment Tool Kit was developed by autistic adults, parents, business leaders and academic experts dedicated to increasing the employment rate of autistic adults. The process began with the Autism Speaks Employment Think Tank in June 2012. For a history, read the Employment Think Tank Executive Summary.
Although this is geared towards you, we know that families, transition coordinators, job coaches and vocational rehabilitation staff, human resources departments, hiring managers, business leaders and anyone helping someone with autism find employment will also find this resource helpful.
Note: The bold, italicized words within sentences in this guide are terms that you may hear often when learning about employment. If you click on one of these words, you’ll see its definition. There’s also a complete Glossary of all terms at the end.
Employment Tool Kit Workbook
Throughout this guide you will see suggested Workbook activities to help you in your employment search. This workbook can be downloaded here. Use blank paper if you need any more space than what is provided.