Understanding Autism in the Workplace and Supporting Colleagues with Autism: Practical Tips and Real Stories

Autism is a neurological developmental disorder that affects how individuals perceive the world, interact with others, and communicate. Although autism is often referred to as a "disorder" many researchers and organisations, such as the National Autistic Society, regard it more as a "difference" in perception. People with autism may experience and engage with the world differently, which influences their daily lives and professional activities.

1. Perception and Communication Differences in People with Autism

Most people with autism experience challenges in social interactions, communication, and processing sensory information. These challenges may arise in the following areas:

Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication

• Literal Interpretation: People with autism often take information literally, which can lead to misunderstandings. For example, phrases like “break a leg” or “let’s take it to the next level” may be interpreted as instructions for physical action rather than figurative expressions.
• Social Norms: Greetings and questions like “How are you?” or “What’s new?” might be perceived as abstract and not requiring a direct answer. An autistic person may struggle to know when to end a conversation or maintain eye contact appropriately.
• Non-Verbal Communication: Difficulty interpreting body language, facial expressions, and gestures can lead to misunderstandings. For instance, a person with autism may not notice when someone is losing interest, resulting in a prolonged and awkward conversation.

Sensory Sensitivity

Many individuals with autism are hypersensitive to sensory stimuli such as bright lights, loud noises, or even the textures of clothing. This can lead to emotional discomfort, stress, or even physical discomfort. For example, harsh lighting in an office or the loud sound of a printer can cause distress for someone with autism, affecting their productivity.

The YouTube video "Sensory Overload" (available at this link) offers a unique opportunity to hear an example of sensory overload from the lives of people with autism. It shows how autistic individuals experience various social situations and what sensory triggers can affect them.

Strict Routines

For people with autism, maintaining a certain routine is often important, as deviations can cause anxiety and stress. Changes in schedule or reallocation of tasks can be a significant challenge for them.

2. Practical Examples: How This Feels in Practice

Example 1: An Autistic Person in the Office

John works in a large UK company with an open-plan office. Despite his professional skills, each day is a challenge for him. Even the simplest noises, such as a colleague’s phone ringing, can be a major irritant. When renovations or office rearrangements take place, it causes John significant anxiety.

“Sometimes, I feel like I can’t concentrate. Even a little noise or a change in the environment makes me anxious,” John explains. To cope, he uses noise-cancelling headphones and avoids long meetings in rooms with many people.

Example 2: Communication with Colleagues

Emily, John’s colleague, noticed that she often couldn’t understand how to properly start a conversation with him. Sometimes, he looks away, avoiding direct eye contact. She learned to be patient and started asking short, clear questions to avoid misunderstandings. For instance, instead of asking “How are you?”, she asks, “Are you happy with your day?”

“I understand that for John, structure and clarity in communication are important, and this helps us interact better,” says Emily.

Example 3: How to Support a Colleague with Autism

Sophie works in the HR department and has recently started working with a colleague diagnosed with autism. She noticed that he struggles in group discussions and often finds it difficult to express his thoughts when the atmosphere becomes tense.

To support him, Sophie suggests:

•  Clear instructions: Sophie always provides written instructions for tasks so her colleague can better prepare.
• Time to adjust: Before important meetings, she discusses the agenda with him in advance to help him feel more confident.
• Space for individual work: If her colleague feels stressed, he can work in a separate room with fewer distractions.

3. How to Support Colleagues with Autism: Tips for the Workplace

1. Patience and Clarity in Communication

When speaking to a colleague with autism, avoid abstract expressions and try to be direct. Instead of saying, “Try to figure this out,” say, “Please complete this by Friday.”

2. Respect Personal Space

Many individuals with autism feel uncomfortable when someone gets too close. Try to avoid violating personal boundaries unless necessary.

3. Preparation for Changes

If changes in schedule or work processes are expected, inform your colleague in advance. This allows them to prepare better and reduces stress levels.

4. Ensuring Comfortable Conditions

Light, noise, and even textures can influence an autistic person’s perception of the world. Maintain a comfortable working environment by offering noise-cancelling headphones or arranging meetings in quieter rooms when possible.

5. Creating Support Systems

Ensure access to additional support, such as meetings with colleagues who can assist in the adaptation process, or developing an individual support plan for the workplace if necessary.

4. Real-Life Examples and Research in the UK

• The National Autistic Society reports that the majority of people with autism have difficulties understanding social dynamics and can feel isolated in the workplace. It’s important for employers and colleagues to be aware of autism’s specifics and provide support for adaptation.
• Research published in The Lancet Psychiatry confirms that people with autism face greater challenges in the workplace compared to their neurotypical colleagues, especially under pressure and stress.

Conclusion

Working with colleagues who have autism requires patience, attention, and a willingness to provide comfortable working conditions. Understanding how people with autism perceive the world and the challenges they face helps create a more inclusive and productive work atmosphere. Clear communication, respect for personal boundaries, and support in stressful situations are key to helping people with autism feel accepted and perform well within the team. Remember, each individual with autism is unique, and it’s important to consider their individual needs and preferences to create a comfortable environment for them.

Note: All names in this article have been changed.

Written by: Svitlana Shpykuliak