How to Teach Interaction Skills for Job Advancement With Autistic Adults

Autism is disability of unknown origin caused by neurological disorder. Children and adults face significant struggles in verbal and non-verbal communication, according to the advocacy non-profit organization Council for Exceptional Children. Autistic individuals can face significant barriers in both obtaining employment and advancing in a professional setting due to their challenges with interpersonal communication. Teaching autistic adults successful interview skills and methods for successful interactions in a professional environment can boost their chances for professional success.

Instructions

    • 1

      Organize a guided social group for autistic adults to practice social interactions in a variety of settings, as recommended by non-profit Achieving in Higher Education with Autism/Developmental Disabilities (AHEADD). Establishing a safe and positive environment can provide opportunities for adults to practice communication skills over time. Enlist parents and volunteers to engage participants in mock interviews, meetings and professional networking.

    • 2

      Utilize video technology for unbiased feedback on non-verbal communications. Film the student answering interview questions or giving a professional presentation. Guide grading the performance using a rubric which can include items such as eye contact, vocal inflection and nervous movement.

    • 3

      Establish a partnership with the student to develop a guidebook for professional interactions that consists of concrete rules and tips. Develop ground rules for appropriate and inappropriate topics of conversation in a workplace environment. Include examples of positive and negative body language that can aid the student in initiating and ending conversations.

Learnify Hub © www.0685.com All Rights Reserved