Job Applications and Applying For Jobs
Many autistic individuals aren’t applying for jobs, even if they want the actual job. One of the reasons why they don’t is due to the application forms they have to fill in/covering letters/their CV.
Let’s look at some of the issues with this:
- Many adverts/applications don’t read very well. This confuses them which puts them off. They may dislike the wording if it’s incorrect which could put them off also.
- Phrases like ‘exceptional verbal and written communication skills’, does every single job need this? If not why out it in? Autistic people can take things literally.
- Including fancy wording/general phrases not relevant to the role same as above. They may think they’re not qualified to do the role, even if they are.
Complex forms – if there are boxes included asking irrelevant questions/asking for info they don’t understand they’ll probably just leave it.
- Ask yourself – do all these questions need to be included?
- Can you give more guidance over what is required?
- What questions can we remove?
- Do you need their full working history and qualifications included when they can just attach their CV?
Duplication – Many employers have application forms that ask for information that is on their CV. Why is this needed? Do you really want to spend hours reading through unnecessary info?
Not understanding what is required of them – if they’re applying for a data analyst role that is home based where they send reports via email but the app form says ‘excellent oral communication skills’ they may be unsure what to say. ‘Interpersonal skills’ – this may confuse them, what does this mean exactly in terms of what the company is wanting?