• Replies 2 replies
  • Subscribers 77 subscribers
  • Views 509 views
  • Users 0 members are here
Options
Hints and tips
  • To quote someone's message, first select/highlight the relevant text, and then use the Quote button that appears
  • To "mention" someone, type @ followed by the start of the forum name, and choose from the list; that person will get a notification of being mentioned

Should I work for myself - thoughts please?

autisticgraduatesurveyor

Hi Everyone,

This is my first time posting and I would really appreciate your thoughts on whether I should work for myself.

I have recently gone back to university to complete a degree in Building Surveying, over the years I have had a few jobs, but always wanted to work for myself. The trouble is as a new graduate in surveying I really need practical experience and I this is something I don't have a a lot of.

 

I have written to companies asking about jobs or just whether I could gain some experience, unfortunately despite a few nice messsages and advise, I haven't been able to get anywhere.

I have registered my CV online and contacted a few specialist surveying recruitment companies, however and like I am sure is the experience of others, all they do is ring you and ask a lot of questions or just contact you about a job and never phone you back.

I went to university as mature student and as I had my diagnosis as 25, I haven't had many years living with autism. In an ideal world I would love to be able to offer my surveying degree and experience to other austistic people or related charities.

I recently been made redundant and have worked in the business world for a few years and loved my last job, however I was told that I was to nice and asked on several occasions, if I really had a diagnosis by my boss.

I live near London and any thoughts or words of advise would be grately appreicated.

  • Hi everyone.

    I think if you have support from your family and a business mentor in place, then get things can be achieved.

    We just set up this website http://www.steponup.co.uk/ , to look at web development careers in internships.

    Matt

  • Hello Autistic graduates,

       When I think back to my working career, I wished i'd done it sooner!

    Whenever I see posts like this, I always send this link.

    musingsofanaspie.com/.../

    It will help you assess whether you feel ready or indeed have some of the skills needed to go it alone.

    I went self-employed some years back, when my husband became unwell and both my boys (On the Spectrum) needed greater support. I work from home, so I can be their for them and was pushed into it by circumstance more than anything, but I don't regret it. For me having an interest/job, beyond care, keeps me sane.

    Correct me if I'm wrong, but it sounds like the barrier is more about practical experience. Have you considered Voluntary work, until you have enough experience?

    I know it's not ideal (Money wise) but any employer would be a fool not to take up qualified help, surely.

    Another alternative, which may seeem more managable would be to work for a firm first, then when you feel confident enough set up on your own. It will give you a chance to get the experience you feel you are missing.

    Alternatively, you could set up SE and try and find a mentor. A mentor could be someone in current employment or retired.

    Im not sure If this lady maybe able to help you develop your idea.

    www.linkedin.com/.../inclusive-entrepreneurship-key-diversity-start-ups-jacqueline

    Tell her you were reccommended her foundation, by someone on the Autism forum who has difficulty with ATW for her children, she will know who I am. She's just launched, but seems to have her finger firmly on the pulse.

    Whatever you decide to do, I wish you every sucess. We need way more like you, who have a dream and look to overcome the obsticles we face.

    Good Luck

    Coogybear