Job Search Strategies
When helping someone on the autism spectrum look for a job, what should an employment specialist focus on first?
Answer: Their strengths and interests
Example: An Employment Specialist might ask what types of tasks the person enjoys, whether they prefer working independently or with others, and what kind of environment helps them feel comfortable. This information can then guide the job search toward positions that match their preferences.
When working with someone on the autism spectrum, what might an employment specialist want to know about their preferred work environment?
Whether they prefer working alone or with others
Example: Someone may prefer a quieter work environment, such as stocking shelves before the store opens, rather than working at a busy checkout.
Which job skill may be a good match for someone on the autism spectrum who enjoys routines and paying close attention to details?
Answer: Following a set routine
Example: Tasks such as organizing materials, checking inventory, or data entry may be a good match for someone who enjoys routines and paying close attention to detail.
Everyone on the autism spectrum prefers to work alone.
Myth, everyone has different preferences and strengths.
A person with a Specific Learning Disability, such as dyslexia, is having difficulty reading a job application. What could an employment specialist suggest?
Answer: Use assistive technology or provide support
Example: An Employment Specialist might suggest using text-to-speech or having the application read aloud so the person can understand the questions and complete the application independently.
When working with someone with a Specific Learning Disability, such as dyslexia, what might an employment specialist want to know?
What helps them learn and complete tasks
Example: They may learn best with step-by-step instructions or a visual checklist, such as using a picture or written list to guide them through each step of a task.
Which job skill may be a good match for someone with a Specific Learning Disability, such as dyslexia, who has strong hands-on skills?
Answer: Hands-on and practical skills.
Example: Jobs that involve building, assembling, repairing, or working with tools may be a good match for someone who learns best through hands-on activities.
Myth or Fact: A person with dyslexia can have strong skills in areas that do not involve reading.
Fact
A job seeker with an Other Health Impairment (OHI), such as ADHD, has several applications and interviews to keep track of. What would be most helpful?
Answer: A calendar or checklist
Example: An Employment Specialist might suggest using a calendar, phone reminders, or a simple job-search checklist to keep track of applications, interviews, and follow-ups.
When working with someone with an Other Health Impairment (OHI), such as ADHD, what might an employment specialist want to know about their work style?
What helps them stay organized and focused
Example: An Employment Specialist might use a written task list, reminders, or break larger tasks into smaller steps to help the individual stay organized and focused at work.
Which type of work may be a good match for someone with an intellectual disability who enjoys hands-on, routine tasks?
Answer: Active work with variety and movement.
Example: Jobs such as stocking shelves, working in a warehouse, or landscaping may be a good match for someone who enjoys staying active and moving between tasks.
Myth or Fact: A person with ADHD cannot be successful in a job that requires organization.
Myth, with appropriate strategies and supports, they can be successful.
An individual with an intellectual disability wants to apply for a job but feels overwhelmed by the process. What is a good strategy for an employment specialist?
Answer: Break the process into smaller steps
Example: An Employment Specialist might help the individual focus on one step at a time, such as finding a job first, then completing the application, and later preparing for the interview.
When working with someone with an intellectual disability, what might an employment specialist want to know about learning new tasks?
What type of instruction and support works best for them
Example: An Employment Specialist might learn that a student does best with clear, step-by-step instructions or demonstrations and use that information when preparing them to learn new tasks.
Which type of work may be a good match for someone with an intellectual disability who benefits from predictable routines, learns best by doing, and prefers clear expectations?
Answer: Structured, hands-on work with consistent routines.
Example: Packaging, stocking, or preparing materials may be a good fit because the tasks can be demonstrated, practiced, and repeated.
Myth or Fact: People with intellectual disabilities can learn job tasks with appropriate training and support.
Fact
A job seeker with an Emotional-Behavioral Disability, such as anxiety, is nervous about an upcoming interview. What is the BEST way an employment specialist can help?
Answer: Practice the interview with them
Example: An Employment Specialist might practice interview questions and teach simple breathing or relaxation techniques the job seeker can use before or during the interview to help manage nervousness.
When working with someone with an Emotional-Behavioral Disability, such as anxiety or depression, what might an employment specialist want to know?
Answer: What helps them manage stress, stay motivated, and handle challenges during the job search and at work?
Example: An Employment Specialist might learn what helps the individual manage anxiety, cope with rejection, stay motivated, and feel comfortable such as clear expectations, predictable routines, or breathing and relaxation strategies.
Someone with an emotional-behavioral disability, such as anxiety, may prefer a job with clear expectations and a supportive work environment. Which is an example of a good job-search strategy?
Answer: Look for job postings that clearly describe the responsibilities, schedule, and work environment.
Example: A job with predictable routines, clear responsibilities, and a supportive environment, such as library assistant, stock clerk, or data entry.
Myth or Fact: A person with an emotional-behavioral disability, such as anxiety or depression, cannot be successful at work.
Myth, people with emotional-behavioral disabilities can be successful at work, especially when they have the appropriate support when needed.