Employer toolkit to support inclusive employment practices when hiring individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

With the incidence of Autism Spectrum (ASD) on the rise, more and more individuals living with ASD are looking to enter into meaningful employment. Research has clearly demonstrated that individuals with ASD may often meet and/ or succeed employer expectations in the workforce. They are often punctual, professional, hard-working employees who work well in repetitive, routine situations where a high level of attention to detail is required. Due to the nature of the ASD diagnosis however, some individuals with ASD may demonstrate difficulties multi- tasking, learning new skills and transferring skills from one situation to another and as such, employment opportunities for this demographic of individuals as a whole is limited. The unemployment, and underemployment rates for individuals in this demographic are staggering demonstrating a clear need for education, resources and supports. In order for employers to see the true benefits of hiring an employee with ASD, it is important that they learn and implement strategies to ensure success. Understanding the difficulties that some employees with ASD may face is as important as providing routine, structure and predictability. This website has been designed as an easily accessible and distributable toolkit to assist employers in the recruitment, hiring and retention of employees living with ASD.