What are good careers for autistic people?

[PearlBird]

1. last job complained I lack workplace etiquette and social skills e.g. inappropriate communication to clients, working from home without explicit communication from the boss etc.

Was told I was a very good analyst and to stick with research

Self employment suits me, although it's not without its challenges. Eg, I can not ignore emails or calls from prospective clients, no matter how much I want to!

I gather that the IT and engineering industries are pretty much massive ND sanctuaries, although I'm not that way inclined myself.

ITnand accounting have a lot of neurodiversity

I’m going to follow this. I’m autistic but also rubbish with numbers so accounting etc wouldn’t suit me and I have real trouble with anything computer/technology based (I also have adhd so wonder if my inability to focus due to that makes things like numbers and computers out of my reach).
I am very good at reading and writing but any career I can think of that would use those skills also involve interacting with people which I really wouldn’t be good at. Like you op I’m unsure of etiquette, and I feel like my body language and facial expressions probably aren’t right. I have been self employed before but I felt like clients didn’t like or trust me because of these things.

*edited for typo

Law - technical legal side, not the people-y glad handing side.

Surgeon or anaesthetist

... also watching as I have 2 ND kids one ASD and one ADHD and ASD

Lab work?

IT, could be coding but also less technical areas such as test management, software integration, web, etc.
It is very common to see developers working with headphones on even in formal industries such as finance, most communication happens via written messages, clear processes to follow, knowledge is valued more than soft skills… Perfect IMO

IT. I know it's a bit of a stereotype but computers are very logical and will do exactly what you tell them, unlike most people. In the right company you can usually go for a more technical expert roles to progress, rather than the traditional management. I do do a bit of client interaction, but usually to explain the technical stuff and someone else does all the sales stuff.

My bit of the nhs is pretty supportive to people who are neurodiverse. So I’d say an analyst in public health in the nhs.

Depends on the persons areas of special interest, follow them and you'll find your niche. Probably easier to identify careers that are not likely to be aligned. For instance I don't think a sales career would work out, as can see how social communication challenges, inflexibility, rigid thinking, and theory of mind issues would be barriers to success.

Im autistic and work in an organisational psychology field. Im successful because I am a systems thinker with a huge body of knowledge in psychology and philosophy, which are special interests I have had since childhood. Im also very good at understanding data and processing insights from it.

@FloofPaws an anaesthetist - no way - communication skills are of paramount importance

DD will be studying history and hopes for some research postition, stately home archives etc.

It is her absolute passion and when it comes to her favourite topic, she is diligent and thorough (unlike her attitude to things which she sees as unimportant, like the state of her room)

What do you enjoy? Do you have a long term special interest?

My DD is autistic and I know, whatever she does in the future, the key to success will be that she must enjoy what she is doing.

There are organisations like the National Autistic Society that can help with work placements. Perhaps see if there are any lists of autism friendly employers who are sensible enough to overlook any social etiquette type issues and will focus on how well you get your work done.

For anyone thinking of law, choose carefully. The law degree and post grad training is great if you are good with detail and absorbing large amounts of written information. Some law jobs, however, there’s a huge amount of client contact and soft skills required. In terms of specific areas, tax and financial regulation are very content heavy and are generally servicing a corporate team who have gone out and done the glad handing to win the work.

The women with autism that I know are working as admin, teaching assistant, housing solicitor, hairdresser, waitressing. The men with autism that I know are working as gardeners, engineers, electrician, dentist, dental lab tech, accountant, surveyor, musician and music teacher. Some of them work part time.

How to improve answers to job interview for a graduate role?
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PearlBird · Today 11:42
Why I want to apply to the job
"I am excited to apply to X because its mission to 'bring health through food and drink to as many people as possible' aligns with my values and professional goals. I am passionate about sustainability and social impact, as demonstrated by my work on integrating ESG data in investment management and creating an urban garden for local foodbanks. Danone’s commitment to becoming a B Corp and its innovative initiatives, like promoting healthy dietary habits and reducing food waste, inspire me.
I am also drawn to X’s dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion. As someone from a BAME background, I value the company’s efforts to create a supportive environment through initiatives like the Inclusive Diversity Forum. I believe diverse teams drive innovation and want to be part of a company that champions these values.
X’s ‘One Planet. One Health’ vision speaks to me, and I am eager to contribute to local initiatives like the Early Years Nutrition Partnership and Eat Like A Champ program. My experience in finance, sustainability, and social impact makes me confident I can help drive these efforts forward and be part of a team committed to creating a healthier, more sustainable world.
HOW DO YOU CONTRIBUTE TO THE COMPANY?
I would contribute to the company by leveraging my strong analytical skills, creativity, and passion for technology to drive innovation and efficiency. My experience in finance and restructuring has taught me to use data-driven approaches and digital tools, such as AI and PowerBI, to solve complex problems and optimize processes. I am enthusiastic about incorporating technology to enhance productivity and improve outcomes, and I am always exploring new tech solutions to help achieve strategic goals.
Additionally, my passion for sustainability and social impact aligns well with the company’s mission, and I’m committed to bringing fresh perspectives that support both business growth and positive societal change. I thrive in diverse, inclusive environments and am eager to contribute to a culture of collaboration, openness, and continuous learning.
WHY DID YOU LEAVE LAST COMPANY?
I was made redundant from Y as part of a 'first in, last out' restructuring approach, which primarily affected newer team members like myself. While it was an unexpected change, I chose to view it as a valuable opportunity for growth. During my time there, I gained extensive experience in turnaround and restructuring and developed strong analytical and problem-solving skills. The experience taught me to be adaptable and resilient in the face of challenges, and it reinforced my passion for learning and

@PearlBird Did you mean to post that last message? It seems like a copy paste error

I occasionally employ a jobbing gardener who I think probably has ADHD. He's terrifically energetic and goes at the garden like a demon, AirPods in. He's also doing a landscaping training course and delivers Amazon parcels.

Well, you meet one person with autism, then you have met one person with autism.
A good career for one could be hell for another.
MY DP is autistic and works in transport planning. It is related to his special interest, and it is 100% WFH so he does not have to deal with office politics etc.
I met another autistic chap today who loves his evening cleaning job, as he can just turn up, do it, and go home. No interacting with people and no stress.

The best career, whatever the focus, is one where the person with ASD feels well supported, and their strengths celebrated. Sadly, considering the low employment rate amongst people with ASD, this seems to be not a thing.

Analyst is good with autism. I’d say it depends on the sector tho, rather than your role and it also sounds my e the company you worked for wasn’t particularly good for people with nd

ive worked in it and thats pretty neuro diverse but now i work in cyber/information security and thats a bloody haven. Nobody bats an eyelid if you tell them you’re autistic except maybe to roll their eyes and tell you you’re not unique here.

but my organisation positively recruits those on the spectrum

what organisation is it?

Same for surgeons. The actual surgeries are only part of their job and bedside manner and communication are so important. What weird suggestions...