For most people, a job interview can feel like an audition, but for neurodivergent candidates, it can bring additional unique challenges—like interpreting social cues, maintaining eye contact, or responding to vague questions on the spot. With the right preparation and strategies, though, you can navigate these hurdles, feel more confident, and showcase what makes you an excellent fit for the role.
This article offers expert-backed tips tailored to neurodivergent individuals, to help you showcase your strengths and navigate the hiring process successfully.
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Neurodivergent candidates and job interviews
Neurodiversity describes the natural variations in how people think, learn, and interact with
the world around them—natural variations that may be influenced by autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other neurological differences. While autism often receives specific focus in hiring discussions due to challenges like interpreting social cues or handling unstructured formats, similar hurdles exist across the neurodivergent community in traditional interview settings.
“We often struggle to talk about ourselves,” says Peter Shankman, co-founder of Mental Capital Consulting and a renowned advocate for neurodiversity, who lives with ADHD. “My advice is to let someone who likes you tell you about your strengths, then memorize what they say to use as your foundation.”
Shankman’s insights, drawn from his personal experience with ADHD, resonate across the neurodivergent spectrum and are especially useful for autistic candidates. Highlighting strengths like attention to detail, creativity, problem-solving, reliability, and hyperfocus can help candidates demonstrate their value in the workplace.
Job interview tips for neurodivergent candidates
For neurodivergent candidates, the emphasis on social interaction, quick thinking, and answering open-ended questions during a job interview often calls for thoughtful preparation.
These tips cover each phase—preparation, the interview itself, and follow-up. We’ve broken down the strategies into actionable steps, giving you the tools to feel empowered and ready to succeed.
Before the interview
Preparation can reduce uncertainty and help you feel more confident. Here’s how to get started.
- Visit the location in advance. “A few days before your interview, visit the location to map out parking or public transportation stops, and the building’s entrance,” says Cody Thomas Rounds, a clinical psychologist and autism specialist. “This helps eliminate surprises on the day of the interview.”
- Review the job description and company. Highlight the key responsibilities and qualities the employer values. Research the company’s mission and culture to tailor your responses and show genuine interest.
- Practice answering common questions. Be ready to respond to typical interview questions like, “What are your strengths?” or “Why are you interested in this role?” It’s a good idea practicing with a trusted friend or mentor. “Even voicing a few key points out loud can help you feel more prepared,” says Jessi Gholami, licensed PCIT therapist, clinical social worker, and senior editor at Start Here Parents.
- Request accommodations. If you need specific adjustments, such as receiving the interview questions in advance or scheduling breaks during the conversation, communicate this early in the process.
- Create a checklist. Note everything you’ll need for the interview, such as identification, a portfolio, or a notepad. Checking this list the day before can ease any last-minute stress.
During the interview
The interview is an opportunity to showcase your skills and connect with the interviewer. Use the following strategies to stay focused and confident.
- Take your time. Pausing before answering is perfectly fine, especially for unexpected questions. Rounds suggests practicing how to ask for clarification: “If a question feels unclear, try saying, ‘That’s an interesting question. Could you elaborate?’ or ‘I want to make sure I’m answering this accurately. Could you provide an example?’” This approach ensures you understand the question fully before responding.
- Highlight your strengths. Showcase unique skills like attention to detail, technical expertise, or problem-solving abilities. Try the STAR method, and use examples from past experiences that align with the role’s requirements to demonstrate your value.
- Leverage nonverbal communication tools. If maintaining direct eye contact feels uncomfortable, focus on the interviewer’s forehead or nose. Small gestures like a friendly smile and sitting upright can also convey engagement.
- Prepare for small talk. While it may feel unnecessary, engaging in brief pleasantries can set a positive tone. “Add a comment about the weather or the building to break the ice if it feels appropriate,” Rounds says. (Here are four small talk tips that'll instantly make your interviewer like you more.)
- Frame your neurodiversity as an asset. If you feel comfortable, consider being honest about how your neurodiversity benefits the company, Shankman says. “For example, you might say, ‘I’m at my most productive in focused, uninterrupted periods and often outperform expectations during these times. This allows me to maximize my output while still being fully present for collaboration later in the day,’” he says. While optional, this approach can help you showcase your strengths in a way that aligns with the role.
After the interview
Post-interview actions matter just as much as your performance during the conversation. Here’s what to do next.
- Send a thank-you email. Within 24 hours, send a concise email to express gratitude, reiterate your interest, and mention a specific part of the conversation that resonated with you. (Here’s how to write a thank-you email after an interview.)
- Reflect on your performance:.“Use the experience to reflect; think about what went well and where you felt stuck,” Gholami says. She suggests keeping notes after interviews to identify patterns and areas for improvement. “Over time, this can help you address specific challenges and build confidence for future opportunities.”
- Track your progress. Maintain a record of the interviews you’ve attended, including the company, role, date, and interviewer. This helps you follow up effectively and stay organized in your job search.
Bonus tip: Look for companies that embrace inclusivity
Finding a workplace where you feel supported and understood can make a significant difference in your career. Start by researching organizations that have a proven commitment to inclusivity.
Look for companies that:
- Have diversity and inclusion (D&I) statements or initiatives clearly outlined on their website
- Partner with organizations that advocate for neurodivergent individuals, such as the Autism Society or similar U.S.-based initiatives
- Highlight employee testimonials or share stories of neurodivergent employees thriving in their roles
Identify inclusive employers by checking for clues in the application process—such as accommodations or structured interviews, which often signal a supportive culture. You can also use the Diversity & Inclusion filter here on The Muse (hi!) to find companies that align with your values and needs.
FAQs
Should I say I'm autistic in an interview?
“It depends on whether you feel that having specific support during the interview or on the job would help you succeed,” Gholami says. If you do choose to bring it up, framing it to highlight your strengths can create a positive impression.
For example, you might say, “My neurodivergence allows me to approach challenges with focus and precision, which aligns well with this role.” However, disclosure is entirely optional, and you can focus on confidently showcasing your skills and experiences without sharing personal details.
How to prepare for a job interview with autism?
Start by researching the company and practicing answers to common questions. Rehearsing with a trusted friend or mentor can help refine your responses. “The goal isn’t to deliver a perfect, word-for-word answer but to feel comfortable discussing the topics and structuring your responses,” Rounds says.
Request accommodations if needed, like scheduling breaks during the interview, to create structure and ease anxiety. Plan practical details like your route to the interview or setting up a quiet space for virtual meetings to minimize stress. The more prepared and authentic you are, the better chance you’ll have of finding the right fit.
Why do autistic people struggle in interviews?
Autistic individuals often find interviews challenging because traditional formats emphasize social nuances, small talk, and nonverbal cues over actual skills, which may feel overwhelming or misaligned with their communication style. Instead, focus on what truly matters. “They’re interviewing you because they’ve already found something interesting about you—so you’re ahead of the game,” says Shankman. Reframing the interview mindset this way helps candidates focus on their strengths. “Interviews aren’t just about getting a job,” Gholami adds, “they’re about finding a workplace where you can do your best work and feel supported.”