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Solomon: Finding hidden treasures among those with autism

solomonPeople come in all shapes, sizes and abilities and our society has become more open and tolerant to many who in the past were not included.  More and more, that tolerance has been extended to people with autism spectrum disorder.

I want to introduce you to a wonderful group of individuals…a group of people just like you and me.  People that you may recognize as being your sibling, your child, your friend, your co-worker or even yourself.

Who are they? A graduate of Cornell, with a major in urban development; a civil servant; a person with an education degree; a lawyer; a cosmetologist; a receptionist at a fitness club; an actor; a volunteer at a museum; an entrepreneur; a software engineer.  All of these people have one thing in common: they are all on the autism spectrum.

People on the spectrum have similar goals to most of us. They want to have a place in the world and have the same opportunities for success. That can mean different things to different people but, at the end of the day, everyone wants to lead a fulfilling life.

As all people, those on the autism spectrum are individuals, with their own strengths and challenges.  However, there are some characteristics that they often share. Many have high-level critical thinking skills, tend to be single-minded, are honest, fair, committed, all traits that are often held in high regard.

So how can we all benefit from having these individuals reach their potential?  It goes beyond the support within families and at school.  It must include providing a level playing field in society at large.  And that requires providing support and acceptance in the workplace.

Whether you are paid or not, working makes us feel good.  It helps develop confidence and self-esteem. And receiving compensation for our work allows us to live independently and achieve personal fulfillment.

Being part of the workforce helps develop social and professional skills, as well as potential friendships and a social network. And the benefits are often not just to the person with autism spectrum disorder.  Diverse work teams that have members with and without disabilities benefit from the different strengths of each member.

Hiring workers with autism spectrum disorder can benefit employers seeking well-educated, committed, motivated candidates.  Individuals with autism spectrum disorder often have these precise exceptional qualities, in addition to the schooling and degrees. This can often be a win/win situation.  From their focus on details to their sense of loyalty, honesty, integrity, sincerity and fairness, those with autism often have traits that benefit the employer.  Employers and society can gain from incorporating these individuals into their companies and corporations.

Education and awareness is needed by potential employers.

Employers have options, such as establishing internships, allowing individuals to have an opportunity to learn “on the job” whether on a paid or unpaid basis.

Employers can appoint a person on the management track as a mentor or liaison to provide guidance to interns and employees. The future manager gains leadership skills; the employee or intern gains knowledge and develops a level of comfort that helps them better contribute to the company.

Long Islanders are at the cutting edge on so many fronts.  It’s time to be on the forefront of expanding the opportunities for everyone, including employing people who may be different but whose minds think brilliantly and creatively.


Solomon is a Life & Career Coach.  Her specialty is working with young adults with autism spectrum disorder, previously called Asperger’s, as well as those with other learning differences, as they transition from college to sustainable employment.


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