Informational interview tips for teens with autism
Short answer
Informational interviews help teens with autism learn about careers by talking to someone working in a job they find interesting. Starting conversations about this skill around ages 13 to 17 builds confidence and understanding of work environments. Parents can guide teens by practicing questions, encouraging curiosity, and supporting small social steps at home and in the community.
Why do teens with autism need informational interview skills and when do they start to click?
Informational interviews are informal chats with professionals designed to help teens learn about different jobs, industries, and career paths. For teens with autism, these interviews offer a chance to understand workplace expectations, build social skills, and explore interests in a low-pressure setting. Developing this skill typically starts to click between ages 13 and 17, when teens become more aware of their future and can ask questions about real-life jobs. Early practice helps reduce anxiety about meeting new people and builds confidence for later networking or job interviews. Parents play a key role by encouraging curiosity and helping teens prepare what to say and ask.
How can parents support informational interview skills at different ages?
Here’s an age-by-age guide to help parents teach informational interviewing skills to their teens with autism, focusing on gradual social practice and comfort-building:
| Age Range | Focus of Skill Development | Parental Role |
|---|---|---|
| 13-14 | Understanding what jobs are and why people work | Talk about different careers, role-play simple questions |
| 15 | Practicing asking basic questions about careers | Help prepare 2-3 simple questions, practice conversation starters |
| 16 | Trying short phone or video informational chats | Coach on tone and listening skills, debrief after conversations |
| 17 | Participating in informal in-person interviews or job shadowing | Support scheduling meetings, discuss follow-up etiquette |
This timeline helps build comfort step-by-step, making the idea of talking to new people less intimidating.
What is a simple script parents can use to introduce informational interviews?
Parents can use straightforward, supportive language to explain and practice informational interviews with their teens. For example:
"You know when you ask me about what I do at work? Informational interviews are when you get to ask someone else questions about their job. It’s like being a detective learning about what they do. We can practice some questions together, so you feel ready when you talk to someone new."
This kind of script emphasizes curiosity and preparation without pressure.
What everyday moments can parents use to practice informational interview skills?
Learning doesn’t have to be formal. Parents can create practice opportunities from everyday moments, such as:
- Asking about the jobs of people you see (e.g., store clerks, delivery drivers) and what they like about their work.
- Practicing greeting and small talk skills during casual social interactions, like at family gatherings or community events.
- Watching videos or reading about different jobs and then discussing what questions the teen might ask someone in that role.
- Role-playing phone calls or video chats, starting with simple greetings and moving to asking about the person’s job.
These moments build comfort with conversation flow, listening, and asking questions naturally.
What are common mistakes parents make when teaching this skill?
Some parents may unintentionally make informational interviews feel like a test or emphasize perfection too much. This can increase anxiety for teens with autism. Other mistakes include:
- Pushing too hard before the teen is ready, leading to resistance.
- Using complicated or abstract language rather than clear, concrete explanations.
- Not allowing enough practice or positive feedback, which helps build confidence.
- Overlooking the importance of sensory needs or social fatigue that can make conversations hard.
Being patient, breaking skills into small steps, and celebrating any effort help teens build this skill more successfully.
When should parents consider extra help or resources?
If a teen continues to struggle with social communication or anxiety around informational interviews despite practice, parents might consider extra support. This can include:
- Speech or social skills therapy targeting conversation skills.
- Career counseling or vocational coaching experienced with autism.
- Support groups or mentoring programs where teens can practice in a safe environment.
- Using resources like social stories or visual scripts tailored to their learning style.
Professional guidance can make informational interviews feel less overwhelming and more achievable.
How do informational interviews help young adults with autism after high school?
For young adults with autism, informational interviews remain a valuable way to explore career options, build networks, and practice social skills. They can open doors to internships, job shadowing, or mentorships that lead to employment. Parents and educators can continue encouraging these conversations by connecting young adults with community programs, disability employment services, and online career resources. Learning to ask good questions and listen closely helps young adults make informed career decisions and advocate for their needs in the workplace.
What are some example questions teens can ask in informational interviews?
Having a few go-to questions can ease anxiety and guide a conversation. Sample questions include:
- What do you like best about your job?
- What does a typical day look like for you?
- How did you get interested in this work?
- What skills do you use most often?
- What advice would you give someone starting out?
Parents can help teens pick 2-3 questions to practice and personalize before an interview.
Where can parents find more help and examples?
For additional guidance, parents can check resources like the Informational interview tips for students with disabilities and Informational interview guide for parents and teachers articles. These include step-by-step instructions and printable materials designed to support teens with autism in building these important skills.
Frequently asked questions
How can I help my teen with autism prepare for nervousness before an informational interview?
Practice is key. Role-play the conversation multiple times using familiar settings and simple questions. Teach calming techniques like deep breathing. Remind your teen it’s okay to take pauses and that the person they’re talking to wants to help. Encouraging positive self-talk can boost confidence.
What if my teen doesn’t want to do an informational interview?
Respect their feelings and try to find out why. Sometimes, starting with watching videos or reading about jobs can be less intimidating. Gradual exposure and celebrating small steps can make the process less overwhelming over time.
Can informational interviews be done online or by phone for teens with autism?
Yes, phone or video chats can be a great way to start, especially if in-person meetings feel stressful. This approach still builds communication skills and career knowledge but in a more controlled environment.
How do I find people willing to do informational interviews with my teen?
Start with family friends, neighbors, teachers, or community members who work in interesting fields. Local autism support groups or vocational programs may also connect you to professionals open to informational interviews.
What if my teen has trouble understanding the answers in an informational interview?
Encourage your teen to ask for clarification or to repeat information if needed. You can also prepare by discussing possible topics in advance and practicing active listening skills. Taking notes or recording (with permission) can help review later.
Are informational interviews the same as job interviews?
No. Informational interviews are informal conversations aimed at learning about a job, not applying for one. They are less stressful and don’t require the same preparation as job interviews but still build important social and career skills.