News and Knowledge

Where do you work and what type of work do you do? 

I work at Ingles Supermarket chain in the Southeastern United States. I work in the Deli Department. I have been with Ingles for about 3 years now and I serve food from the hot bar mostly. That is my main job but I also help my co-workers on the Asian Bar and the salad case. I also clean and sweep the floors, clean out sinks and wrap plates. I like my nice customers and also my coworkers.

Do you use accommodations in the workplace? If so, what accommodations or support have been most helpful to you? What was your experience in requesting accommodations? How would you recommend navigating that process?

I don’t have any official accommodations but there are things I’m not good at because of autism. I can’t make a straight line and using knives to cut things isn’t good so cutting things up isn’t one of my jobs. Also, it’s hard for me to make a neat sub sandwich so it isn’t one of my jobs either. There are lots of workers in the deli and we all do the jobs that we are best at. Having a nice boss and people being patient is what is most helpful to me. I was honest with my boss when I started about what my skills were. It is also great that I get so much support from my coworkers. They always say, “Good Job Sunny!” and make me laugh. When I was trying to get the job, I explained nicely that since I have to walk to work alone, I would like to just work first shift. I don’t want to walk in the dark. It wasn’t scary because my boss is nice and I only work morning shift. My advice for getting accommodations is to be nice and not demand things. You should be as flexible as possible. Stand up for yourself but don’t cause problems.

How has being autistic influenced your experiences in the workplace? Have you faced any challenges or successes in finding and maintaining employment? 

It really hasn’t been hard for me to find a job. I have worked in a gift shop and bussed tables at Tipsy Taco but working at Ingles has been my longest job. I don’t think my autism has really affected my working. I think working makes my autism better because I like working and it gets me out in public to be social and I feel grown up because I get to live independently. I got hired at Subway but fit didn’t work out because I couldn’t cut the sub rolls. I do not think every job is for every person. So, I tried Ingles and I have had mostly success there. Some customers get angry at me if I don’t understand which piece of chicken they want or if I move to slowly. Sometimes they even call me really hurtful names. I would never do that but I just ignore them. Most of the customers are nice and tell me I do a good job and that I’m their favorite. I have worked at Ingles for 3 years. It isn’t hard to keep a job if you follow the rules. I am never late, never miss a shift, keep a smile and a good attitude, and do the best I can do every day. I am even transferring from the store in Clemson to the one in Simpsonville. I am moving there and am happy that the Simpsonville store has heard good things about me and they hired me. I am going to live where I can walk to the new store because I can’t drive.

In your experience, what do you think would help employers create more inclusive workplaces for autistic individuals?

I think they should treat each employee the same. Autistic people should be treated fairly. It’s important for them to be patient and give a little more time to learn something. I think employers should believe that I am a good worker. People need a chance to learn new stuff. Being nice is important.

Could you describe your job search process and how you prepared for interviews? Were there any specific strategies that worked well for you?

I have Googled for jobs that were in the customer service industry because I like people and to be sociable. I look for jobs that I can walk to or that are on the public bus route. An Uber ride every day is too expensive. I also was interested in places that are known for inclusive hiring. I have had several interviews.  Feeling prepared helped me feel confident. I think you should wear a nice outfit and think about what you are going to say before you go. Be honest about your qualifications. You should have a positive attitude and tell them you are a hard worker. Act professional. Show up early for the interview.

Is there anything else you would like to share about your journey or experiences in the workforce?

I have had a great experience with working. I have met so many nice people and even made friends at work. I am earning my own money and get benefits. I get to transfer because it’s a chain,  So, I think it can matter where you work, so try to find a job that you like and be happy!