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rudybega
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Joined: 10 May 2013
Age: 41
Gender: Female
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30 May 2013, 8:41 pm

When is the appropriate time to inform an employer that I have aspergers? I beleive its crucial for them to know so I can perform well at a job.



NEtikiman
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30 May 2013, 8:55 pm

I've been wrestling with that too... I just started a new job, I know I have a hard time transitioning into new places/roles/responsibilities and I'm wondering if letting someone know might alleviate that...
There are a lot of variables to consider when thinking about disclosing. What would the ramifications be (i.e. how accepting do you think they will be)? Will you need accommodations or is it just a heads up in case they have questions?
Some people delay disclosure until things get bad... I'm of two minds on that. On the one hand, you have a right to keep things private, but if you wait you may meet a response that you're "making excuses" (I get particularly irritated by that one). On the other hand, letting your employer know early may give you a leg up in terms of having him/her understand you and your needs should issues arise down the line, but it doesn't necessarily mean they will understand what it means to have aspergers without some information... Some education (if he/she wants it) might make the disclosure more productive and meaningful.
Either way, it sounds like your ultimate goal is to make yourself successful at the job and that will benefit both you and your employer!
Can I ask: What is the job and what makes you want to (or hesitant to) disclose?


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