This how-to book assists individuals on the autism spectrum in finding meaningful employment. The how-to process includes setting career goals, writing emails to potential employers, developing résumés, identifying job references, determining strengths and weaknesses, role-playing effective communication, handling conflicts, responding to bullying, and regulating strong emotions. The book includes résumé templates, job analysis worksheets, and lists on maintaining daily hygiene, finding technology tools to support interviewing skills, and understanding what not to say to fellow employees. This practical guide is tailored for high school and college career counselors and individuals on the spectrum. Distinguishing itself from general job search books, it addresses autism-related challenges in job searches, including social skills, language use, and restrictive behaviors. It also emphasizes and enhances strengths such as attention to detail, reliability, honesty, and expertise. The last two chapters extend beyond hiring to summarize the legal and social challenges employees on the spectrum may face. Recommended. All readership levels.

Choice Reviews

The employment journey for autistic and other neurodivergent candidates is complicated. Employers, employment specialists, parents and candidates can sometimes feel overwhelmed by both the process and the resources available for those seeking jobs. This handbook collects a number of useful resources and activities that provide a professional with a roadmap to assist those on this journey. It is written in a clear and accessible way, and organized in a manner that makes it easy to use as a reference for all parts of the employment process.

Lee Burdette Williams, PhD, executive director, College Autism Network

This book has a lot of great data, information about ASD, and strategies and informative practices for service providers, families, and perhaps employers.

Katie Oliver, Office of Special Education, Colorado Department of Education

Through real-life examples, engaging case studies, and permanent product activities, the authors have essentially created an interactive curriculum to support the transition of young adults with ASD to the employment setting. A must-read for high school educators, parents, and any others with the role of guiding employment acquisition for young adults with ASD.

Francis J. DeMatteo Ed.D, professor and director, School Psychology Program, Cal Poly Humboldt; author of of Delivering Psycho-educational Evaluation Results to Parents: A Practitioner's Model

You're Hired! Practical Strategies for Guiding Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder to Competitive Employment provides a detailed road map for supporting autistic individuals in getting and maintaining employment. It is brimming with resources and practical guidance; it is truly a must-read for anyone who supports autistic individuals.

Nicholas Gelbar, University of Connecticut; Educational Testing and Consulting