What does autism look like in the workplace?

If you have a coworker who tends to keep to themselves or has trouble following conversations, they could be on the spectrum. Instead of avoiding them, try to include them in conversations and social activities. Just be patient and know that they may not contribute in the same way as your other coworkers.

Should I tell my boss about my autism?

It is not necessary to tell your co-workers and colleagues about your autism or your need for accommodations. They might become aware of the accommodations you have, if any (like extra breaks or a flexible starting time), but they are not entitled to know why.

What are autism accommodations?

planning and practicing of communication strategies and social routines. earplugs or noise-canceling headsets in hallways or lunchroom. a quiet area where the student can take a time-out if necessary. visual schedules and graphic organizers.

How do you deal with a coworker with autism?

What You Need To Know About Working With Colleagues On The Autism Spectrum Avoid eye contact (if they do). Take their affect in stride. Listen patiently. Embrace structure. Minimize “social clutter.” Embrace project management solutions. Embrace universal design.

Is your colleague on the autism spectrum?

It’s possible that your colleague may be on the autism spectrum – one of the 1 in 68 people in the U.S. that the CDC estimates has ASD, or autism spectrum disorder . This is a major rise from the 1 in 88 that the CDC reported just six years ago, in 2008.

Can autistic people work in the workplace?

With the prevalence of autism standing at around 1.5\% of the population, many workplaces will be employing people on the autism spectrum whether they have declared it or not. I write this article as a neurotypical coach who has been supporting autistic people in the workplace as well as coaching their managers for the past decade.

Should you work with autistic coworkers with hyperfocus?

In the case of hyperfocusing, if the employee with autism’s hyperfocus is on the work that you are doing, that’s great, but it will make for boring breakroom conversations. If the focus is on something else, you may spend a lot of your life hearing about your autistic coworker’s current hobby.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KzW2uJAczFc