Writing a brilliant CV to secure your dream job can be a challenge to anyone, but applicants with autism can face a few extra difficulties. A CV is how a potential employer will get their first impression of you and it’s important for you to present yourself in the best way possible.
If you have autism, then you will be aware of how a potential employer might form preconceptions towards you before you have even met him. It’s your job to show possible employers that you are the best person for the position. Not despite your autism, but because of it.
People’s understanding of autism has continued to grow and more people with autism are getting into work. More potential employers are beginning to see how autistic candidates can be a value to their business as long as they provide the correct support and working environment.
When to tell a potential employer about your autism?
This complicated question often comes up with autistic applicants and has many different answers that really depend on what you think is best. It’s generally agreed that a CV isn’t the right place to tell a potential employer about your autism. Instead, you can use the disability question section of a job application to let a potential employer know as soon as it is appropriate.
Your CV is best used to convince an employer that you are the best candidate for the job, so it is possible to mention your autism if it provides you with a unique set of skills or traits that would make you well suited to the position. Use your best judgement and just remember to be upfront and honest.
Focus on your positives
This is sound advice for anyone who is writing a CV, but if you have autism and you are worried it might affect your chances of getting a job then it is essential to present your strengths.
We know that everyone on the autism spectrum is different and that they will excel or struggle in different areas. When writing your CV it’s important to consider what skills you have, such as higher attention to detail, that will make you a strong candidate for the position and focus on them.
If you focus on your positives whilst you write your CV rather than your shortcomings, then your CV will be much more likely to impress a potential employer.
A suitable job
When you are searching for jobs it is important to try and find a position that will allow you to play to your strengths and excel. Autistic candidates often do well in a clear and well-defined job role that has a lot of structure.
Finding a company with the right culture and workplace environment is also important. Try to find a workplace that is quiet and has a solid routine. These are the sort of questions you should feel confident asking during an interview to find out if they are a good match for you.
Find the right employer
It’s against the law for an employer or potential employer to discriminate against you for being autistic or having any other kind of disability. However, it is still possible that they will form a negative opinion of you. It’s important that you find an employer that will want to work with you and support you, rather than someone who is begrudgingly hiring you just to comply with the law. Look for potential employers who have other autistic employees and will know how best to support you and will be happy to make adjustments for you.
Ask for adjustments
Parts of a job application can be challenging for autistic candidates and it is important that you ask for adjustments if you feel like you will need them to perform your best. Many potential employers will be willing to make adjustments, like providing the interview questions in advance to let you prepare for them better. This is also a good way of discovering if they would be a supportive and understanding employer.
Writing an effective CV is a challenge whether you have autism or not. Fortunately, CV Nation offers a specialist, bespoke CV writing service that will work with any special circumstances, like autism, and help you achieve your career goals.
This post first appeared on the getsetResumes.com Blog
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