I'm high functioning Asperger's, how do I avoid being discriminated against in interviews?

Question

I am a software engineer with Asperger's and depression that tend to interfere with people skills. I do very well with what I have but there are still limits that some people still detect as "wierd vibes". If I am competing with normal people I am almost never given an offer. I have occasionally tried mentioning the truth and citing ADA to protect myself but that doesn't help only makes it worse. With offshoring there seems to be no room left for compensators like myself who were previously tolerated during the Sputnik era but in this deindustrialized age all the niches have been taken away. I have been unemployed for 2 years and feel like a complete waste of training.

Answer 1

I'm am sorry you are being discriminated against. In Michigan we have "michigan rehabilatation services" which match the person w/ the job, is it possible that your state has this type of service? If not you sound like like you would be able to co-found some type of organization. Look in the govt. section of the phone book.

Answer 2

The ADA ruling only works if the company feels that accommodating you is "reasonable". Meaning, if they hear Asperger's, not knowing anything about the condition, someone may make an unfair assumption that you will need extra days off or something of that nature, which is simply not true.

Since Autism is more recognized these days you shouldn't have a problem building a network around people who have family members who are autistic. There must be a support group or something in your area, if you can join or visit and state what is going on you may find that a person in that group is a manager in a department that can use your skills. If they understand what your needs or vibes are, they will be able to introduce you smoother into the office environment.

I work in the software and electronics industry, and without knowing you, I would say that your Aspergers probably makes you a better engineer that the regular joe that walks in. It will work for you, so don't give up the faith.

And network your butt off.

Answer 3

Perhaps you might find a coach or a class that could help you with your interviewing skills and strategies.

Can you look for jobs through contacts rather than just from cold calling or ads? I think employers listen when someone who knows a job candidate can say "Yeah, he's a good guy."

I can see that, while mentioning that you have Asperger's might be OK, an employer who heard you cite ADA to protect yourself could view that as a threat.

Good luck.

Answer 4

Never tell them.

From my experience, I have found that it is the people who do little work but know how to smooze, that get ahead more quickly, but they do get found out sometimes.

You can't fight it, so focus on your strong points, what you can do well, and put that out there. Sooner or later you will come across an intelligent person who can see what you have to offer!

Also, people with Aspergers are gifted with some very great qualities, we all get stuff to work with and stuff that works against us. You must be your own best supporter, believe in who you are and what you can do!