What Should I Do?
Hi. I’m a 21 year old male with autism currently working as a trade assistant. I got this job due to my brother recommending me even though I do not want to work in trade and he is a fairly judgemental and tough person to be around. I know I’m quite young but I want to start finding out what my future career will end up being, so I’ve been looking around and wondering what job would suit me best.
I’m decent on the computer and was a junior data analyst at a company for people with autism but only for three months as they let me go. We ultimately found out they lost their funding for the building I was working at and not a great company due to going against the fundamentals of what they stand for. I love the city so much and would love to work in a decent building where I could live in an apartment that is my dream.
I have been eyeing advertising as it would help me get to know more people and seems like a solid career path. I was looking at sales but it seems rather annoying and frustrating for a lot of people. Apart from those two options I can’t think of a future career or at least something to transition in and go from there. I would appreciate any guidance or suggestions of jobs that fit what I am looking for, that also have solid opportunities and overall I could wake up and wear my own clothes.
Jobadvisor
Thank you for opening up—what you're experiencing is something many people go through, especially in their early 20s, and you’re doing exactly the right thing by reflecting on your needs, values, and long-term goals now.
Based on what you shared, here’s a breakdown of what stands out:
🔍 Your Key Traits and Interests
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You're decent with computers – likely comfortable with tech, data, or digital tools.
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You’ve had experience as a junior data analyst – that suggests analytical thinking, a structured mindset, and some exposure to office work.
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You like the city and want to work in a nice building – lifestyle and environment matter to you (which is valid!).
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You’d like a job where you can wear your own clothes – autonomy, self-expression, and perhaps a non-traditional workplace culture matter to you.
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You’re exploring advertising (and maybe sales) – looking for a people-oriented, creative, or dynamic field, but dislike the “pushiness” of traditional sales.
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You want stability, opportunity, and something that feels fulfilling – very wise.
🎯 Suggestions Based on Your Profile
1. Digital Marketing / Advertising
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You’re already drawn to this and for good reason. It mixes creativity, tech, data, and people.
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Roles to explore:
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Social Media Coordinator / Manager – running accounts, writing posts, managing content calendars.
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SEO/SEM Specialist – a mix of analytics and strategy.
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Content Writer / Copywriter – if you’re decent at writing and like being expressive.
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Media Planner / Account Coordinator – you work with clients and teams to plan marketing campaigns.
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Why it fits: City-based, casual dress codes, collaborative environments, creative energy, and clear career progression paths.
2. Tech & Data Careers (without hardcore coding)
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You had a start in data analysis—maybe worth revisiting with the right company.
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Roles to consider:
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Data Analyst – again, but maybe in a more stable or supportive company.
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Business Analyst – combines tech, business, and communication.
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UX Designer (User Experience) – focused on how websites and apps feel to use; a good path for autistic individuals who notice details others miss.
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No-code Developer – using tools like Webflow, Airtable, or Zapier to build systems without heavy coding.
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Why it fits: Many of these roles are remote-friendly, well-paid, offer flexibility, and align with your skills and preferences.
3. Creative & Design Roles
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If you enjoy visual work or ideas, you might thrive in:
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Graphic Design
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Branding
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Motion Graphics
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Video Editing
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These often feed into advertising and marketing roles too.
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Many autistic individuals excel in creative fields where detail and vision are valuable.
4. Supportive, Purpose-Driven Workplaces
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Since you’ve had a rough experience with one autism-centered company, it may feel discouraging, but there are good ones out there.
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Some great orgs are neurodiversity-friendly and actively seek people like you (e.g., Untapped, Specialisterne, DXC Dandelion Program if you’re in Australia).
🛣️ Short-Term Steps to Get Unstuck
A. Learn & Test Things Out
Pick one of these free/low-cost resources and experiment:
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Google Digital Garage – Marketing & Data courses.
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Coursera – Try out UX design, data analytics, and advertising.
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[Fiverr Learn / Skillshare / LinkedIn Learning] – For creative and digital skills.
B. Start Building a Portfolio
Even if unpaid at first, create small sample projects (e.g., ads for fake brands, website redesigns, short reports, etc.) to showcase your talent when applying.
C. Look for Internships, Not Just Jobs
Many digital or marketing agencies are open to interns who show passion—even without a full degree. This helps you build real-world experience in a better culture than trade.
D. Find Community or a Mentor
Being around understanding people makes a difference. Reddit (r/neurodiversity, r/findapath), Discord communities, or even ADHD/autism-focused career groups might help.
🔚 Bottom Line
You want something:
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Urban, with a good environment
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Supportive or inclusive of who you are
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With real growth potential
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That uses your interests (tech, creativity, communication)
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And allows personal expression
Based on all that, digital marketing, UX design, data analytics, or content creation sound like excellent fits. They’re future-proof, flexible, and full of opportunity.
If you’d like, I can help you:
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Choose a specific skill path to begin with.
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Write a resume or cover letter tailored to one of these fields.
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Create a step-by-step transition plan from trade to your new career.