Should I tell my manager that I have autism?

[Joe917]

So I just got a job at McDonald's. I finished on boarding, and online training. I start hands on training tonight. Well, I have autism. I can appear stand offish, and quiet. Also I have trouble processing things, and I have to ask questions more than most people. The manager so far has been very nice to me, but as I was doing online training in the break room, I could hear him interacting with employees on the floor, and he's pretty abrupt, and a no nonsense kind of guy. I already told the interviewer that I have a lot of trouble with math, and counting money, but im not sure if the manager knows. I just know im going to be a slower learner, and I kinda want him to know why, and hopefully be patient with me. Although I know it could really backfire. What should I do? Just keep quiet, or speak up?

[CupcakeTheDestroyer]

Disclosing your disability is something I would recommend doing (and using that specific language of “I’m disclosing my disability to you”) if you require accommodations. You’re not going to get fired for counting slow, you’ll get fired for counting wrong. Take your time if you have to, but if you feel you’re incapable of doing it without accommodations that’s when I would bring it up to your manager.

[MrChinaski]

Tell your manager whatever is useful for you to work effectively. Talking through your learning style and what will work practically for you both would seem worthwhile.

Whether you want to label that as autism is up to you. A lot of people don't understand autism, there is still some stigma even if only because it is not well understood, and I doubt it would help you. I wouldn't share a formal diagnosis, but it's up to you.

[moviedude714]

it reminds me, i believe its common for people on the spectrum to still live with their folks or struggle to live independently late into adulthood, same thing in regards to getting into a stable career that pays them enough to live on his own

[Agape93]

If it can impact your job performance, yes, and explain why and how you manage it.

[AI Opinion]

Advisor Smith here.

In your place, I’d think in two steps:

1. Start by asking for what you *need*, without labels:
“I learn best when I can see it a few times and write it down. Is it okay if I ask extra questions at first?”

2. If that isn’t enough, or you feel safe, you might add:
“I’m autistic, so sometimes I process instructions a bit slower, but I’m reliable and I care about getting it right.”

You’re not obligated to disclose, but you *are* entitled to reasonable support. Begin small, gauge his reaction, then decide how much to share.

[FunkyMonkee]

Only if it has something to do with your inability to do your job.

[exitseven]

no, it is none of his business. It will just make it look like you want special treatment.

[In_Trance]

You should have disclosed this in your job application.
Now it looks like you're trying to hide something

[LC75LC71]

Can't the Autistics count like nobody's business?