If you are smart, but you have A.S.D., how do you convince an employer to let you work at their business?

Question

Should I not tell about it or should i explain properly about it or hope for the best and if don't get the job, go to court about it?

Or is there another option?

Note: A.S.D.= Autism Spectrum Disorder

Answer 1

You don't tell your potential employer or any one you interview w/any disabilities/disorders you have, that would open the door for them to discriminate against you.  If you are qualified to do a job then they will select you based on that. If your offered a job and you require some special accommodations then you can tell them of your disorder and what special accommodations you need, an employer is required to make a reasonable accommodation to the known disability of a qualified applicant or employee if it would not impose an "undue hardship" on the operation of the employer's business. If you require no special accommodations then don't mention your disorder at all. You are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (http://www.eeoc.gov/types/ada.html).  So you do your job search, interview, and would be selected like any other candidate.

HR Manager

Answer 2

My 3 year old daughter has ASD.  Just thinking about her, here is what I will tell you:  I think the key is knowing your strengths.  Do you anticipate having problems doing this job effectively?  Does this job play to your best attributes?  I honestly would not tell your potential employer.  As long as you can do the job then it should not matter.  With Autism being so much in the news I would be cautious about telling your boss or coworkers because they are going to make a judgement about you based on what they have seen on tv.  This may make it much harder for you to be successful at  your job.  You have to also remember that everyone has their strengths and weaknesses and everyone makes mistakes at work sometimes.  If they all know  you have ASD then they will automatically attribute everything to that.  

Mind you, I am not saying  you should be ashamed or never tell anyone.  I am just saying to wait to mention the ASD to anyone until you have proven to them all that you are competent at your job.  Imagine their surprise when they finally do find out about the ASD! Also, sometimes when employers notice a deficit in some area - maybe communication in a business environment - they choose to send that person to a seminar or workshop to improve that area.  Maybe you can look to take advantage of these types of things if they are offered.  I hope that helps and I truly wish you the best of luck!

Answer 3

If an employer really wants you, you'll get the job regardless of your A.S.D. If you can perform the job with reasonable accommodation, I don't think you need to be worried. Just be confident and let them know why you would be a great asset to the company. If the employer asks, explain. If not, you don't have to say anything immediately unless you need special accommodations to work at the business.

Answer 4

I wouldnt say anything about it.... Unless its something they can really notice.