IGNITE is a program of the Autism Society of North Carolina, with founding support from the Evernham Family-Racing for a Reason Foundation. Spring 2018 • Volume 5, Issue 1
IGNITE is a unique ‘peer-to-peer’ community center for young adults with high-functioning autism (HFA) or Asperger’s Syndrome (AS) offering activities, skills training, and educational workshops that foster social, financial, educational, and employment independence for its members. More importantly, IGNITE offers a social environment where members can connect with others and experience a sense of community.
For more information:
Mindy Govan, IGNITE Director 704-897-8982 mgovan@autismsociety-nc.org www.ignite-davidson.org www.autismsociety-nc.org You can donate to IGNITE online or send a check made out to the Autism Society of North Carolina: IGNITE • 209 Delburg St., Suite 134 Davidson, NC 28036
Hidden Barriers in the Workplace By Mindy Govan, IGNITE Director
Many individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are very good at the work tasks they have been hired to do. They are very dependable, showing up for work as expected, and they rarely take days off. But to be successful in the workplace, individuals on the spectrum must overcome hidden barriers. Let’s begin with job duties. When someone is hired, they usually are given a broad description of their duties, but so often, the specific duties are not included. Think about it: Does your job description adequately describe what you actually do day to day? In addition, some duties are unspoken but expected, such as answering the phone and checking email. It would help individuals on the spectrum to have all of the expectations and duties spelled out clearly, organized, and prioritized. Job duties also can be fluid and change based on situations and need. For individuals with ASD, it can be difficult to incorporate new tasks and duties into their routine. Unexpected change can cause frustration. Individuals on the spectrum can struggle to build a new routine, causing a significant decrease in productivity, or they may appear insubordinate when they do not adapt to the changes. Employers can support their workers with ASD by helping them to establish new routines if needed and by being patient and understanding that this is difficult for the employee. If your job tasks change and you are feeling confused, you just ask for help, right? But asking for help is a complicated skill. Let’s look at all that is required. First, you must recognize that you need help. Then you must understand that other people have different skill sets and someone might have the skill or knowledge that you are lacking. Next you must be able to put into words the need that you have AND you must be able to present these words to a person who might be able to help you. “What do I say and when do I say it?” If a breakdown occurs during one of these steps, the whole process can fail. (Continued on page 2)