Hiring employees with autism can be a strategic move that benefits both your business and your team.

• Creates a more inclusive and diverse workplace
• Tap into a pool of highly skilled and dedicated talent

Fostering a safe and inclusive space for neurodiverse employees is not only the right thing to do, but it can also lead to a more innovative and productive workforce. Supporting autism in the workplace can include: implementing training for your staff, providing flexible work arrangements, and creating quiet spaces for those who need them. These accommodations are often very reasonable, and empower all employees and contribute to a successful work environment.

The Power of Neurodiversity

It’s important to dispel a common myth, not everyone with Autism has the same strengths and weaknesses. Many people with autism excel in traditional workplaces and in fact, often bring valuable skills to the table such as:

• Increased Concentration: Many can focus intensely on tasks, minimizing distractions and maximizing productivity.
• Attention to Detail: Most have a keen eye for detail, ensuring accuracy and a high standard of work.
• Exceptional Hands-on Skills: Many excel in technical roles or those requiring manual dexterity.
• Reliability: They are known for their commitment and follow-through, making them dependable employees.

“If an autistic person is seeking employment in your workplace, they most likely have education or special interest in this 
field of work, you are gaining passionate, knowledgeable and skilled worker, hire them!”

– Autistic adult with ADHD

Beyond Skills: The Value of Diversity

Hiring a diverse workforce goes beyond just skills. And by supporting ASD in the workplace, you actually help many more employees than your neurodiverse ones! Moreover, by creating a space that welcomes people with different abilities, you send a powerful message of inclusion. As a result, this not only fosters a more positive work environment but also helps attract top talent and future customers who value diversity.

Disability Rights and Law

• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
• Disability Rights Michigan
• Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund
• Michigan Disability Rights Coalition
• U.S. International Council on Disabilities (USICD)
• United Nations, Division for Social Policy and Development

Michigan Developmental Disabilities Institute

Employer Assistance and Resource Network (EARN)

• List of organizations dedicated to advancing people with disabilities in the workforce
• Training courses on employment of people with disabilities: Self-Paced Trainings & Webinars
• Resource Library