The value of part-time work and autistic adults

The value of part-time work and autistic adults

Employment is a major concern for adults on the autism spectrum. While some companies have selected employees with autism for various job opportunities, others continue to cling to previous stereotypes and limiting beliefs. Sometimes solutions to a problem are literally right in front of us, but for countless reasons we can't see them. This is the case with many employers who are unable to fill vacancies because they have difficulty finding qualified workers. Taken together, several factors contribute to making this a sensitive issue for companies. First, many of the really hard-to-fill jobs are part-time positions with no benefits. This is an important point of distinction that is often not mentioned when employment statistics are presented by state and federal agencies. Additionally, these same positions are often entry-level positions and offer little to no opportunity for career advancement. The reality is that there is an abundance of talent – ​​but very little interest from potential employees.

The robust economy is often cited as a reason for the lack of qualified employees. To some extent this is true, but it doesn't explain why these jobs are available even as the job market slows. This scenario seems tailor-made for adults with autism for several reasons. The fact that a number of part-time job opportunities are available is significant as it relates to adults on the autism spectrum. In many cases, adults with autism can only work part-time due to physical or financial limitations. Those who receive Social Security and Medicaid are allowed to earn additional income up to a certain limit without jeopardizing those benefits. The idea of ​​making extra money appeals to some people with autism who pursue an independent lifestyle. Maintaining government benefits is an essential part of the equation that provides flexibility and income. Additionally, part-time work is often best suited for autistic adults because secondary physical conditions preclude full-time work.

Dealing with underlying medical conditions is an accepted part of life for some people with autism. Time-consuming commitments such as constant therapy appointments, psychological counseling, regular doctor visits regarding digestive issues, and managing countless sensory challenges are common. The truth is that so many autistic adults simply cannot hold a full-time job due to the time required to manage health issues. The timing couldn't be better, both for adults on the spectrum and for companies looking to fill part-time positions. This is the ultimate win-win for everyone involved, allowing companies to fill entry-level positions that are difficult to place and often repetitive. On the other hand, this is a legitimate opportunity to constructively address the dismal unemployment rate among autistic adults, which currently stands at around 80%.

It could be argued that this is highly speculative as there simply isn't much evidence to support this theory. However, the current course we are on is clearly not working – at least for the majority of autistic adults. Society is not the shining example of inclusion when we have people with autism who have amazing talents not participating in the workforce. Some workplace changes are necessary, but such adjustments have proven to be highly successful in the past. Additionally, the long-term goals are encouraging as employers learn more about the nuances of autism and the unique skills they offer. For companies willing to invest in training and a supportive environment for autistic workers, the outcome can be very rewarding. Sometimes the solutions to problems that seem monumental are right in front of us, just waiting for an invitation.

Inspired by George David Williams