What are the best practices for writing a CV as an individual with Autism? 

For many autistic adults, the process of writing a CV can be daunting, not because of a lack of skills or experience, but because standard CV conventions often prioritise social presentation over clarity and substance. However, when written effectively, a CV can become a powerful tool to showcase strengths, qualifications, and the unique perspective autistic individuals bring to the workplace. 

Recent guidance from ACAS, the National Autistic Society (NAS), and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) highlights how autistic candidates can create CVs that effectively communicate their abilities while minimising stress during the application process. 

1. Focus on Strengths and Achievements 

When writing a CV, focus on your skills, strengths, and achievements rather than trying to fit a “standard” format. Many autistic individuals have exceptional abilities in areas such as attention to detail, logical thinking, pattern recognition, and reliability: all of which are valued by employers. 

Practical Tips: 

• List specific examples of tasks completed successfully (e.g., “managed data accuracy for 5,000 records” rather than “attention to detail”). 

• Use clear bullet points rather than long paragraphs for easier readability. 

• Highlight any projects, qualifications, or volunteer work that demonstrate consistency, accuracy, or problem-solving skills. 

According to Autistica (2023), identifying and presenting your strongest skills helps employers see ability over disability, particularly when paired with structured, factual examples. 

2. Use a Clear and Predictable Layout 

A CV should be simple, structured, and easy to read. Avoid overcomplicated designs or formatting that may distract your achievements. Consistency in layout also helps reduce stress for both the writer and the reader. 

Layout Guidelines: 

• Keep your CV to one or two pages with clearly labelled sections (e.g., “Education,” “Work Experience,” “Skills”). 

• Use consistent fonts and spacing to improve readability. 

• Start with a short, factual summary of your career goals and key skills. 

ACAS (2025) recommends prioritising clarity and structure in all forms of professional communication: an approach that works equally well in written applications. 

3. Tailor Your CV to Each Role 

Rather than using one general CV, tailor your application to highlight the most relevant skills for each position. For autistic applicants, this can help focus attention on specific strengths that match the job requirements. 

How to Tailor Effectively: 

• Review the job description carefully and use keywords from the advert in your CV. 

• Highlight technical or specialist skills where possible (e.g., data analysis, IT systems, creative design). 

• Consider adding a short skills matrix that links your experience to the job criteria. 

The NICE CG142 guidance encourages employment services to support autistic adults in structured preparation for job applications, including tailored CV writing and role-matching. 

4. Consider Disclosure Carefully 

Autistic applicants are not required to disclose their diagnosis on a CV or in an application. However, if you feel comfortable, disclosure can help employers understand your need for reasonable adjustments during interviews or in the workplace. 

NAS (2022) advises that if you do disclose, you can focus on how autism contributes positively to your skills (e.g., focus, reliability, problem-solving). Alternatively, disclosure can be made later in the hiring process or after a job offer, when discussing workplace support needs. 

5. Seek Support When Needed 

Many autistic individuals benefit from career coaching or vocational support when preparing a CV. DWP Access to Work scheme can fund job coaches, assistive technology, or support workers who can help you build your CV and prepare for interviews. 

In addition, NHS England’s Reasonable Adjustments Guidance (2023) recommends that autistic adults receive ongoing employment support to improve access to fair opportunities. 

Conclusion 

Writing a CV as an autistic individual should focus on clarity, honesty, and highlighting the unique strengths you bring to a role. By using structured formats, tailoring applications, and seeking support when needed, you can present your experience in a way that helps employers see your potential clearly. 

For additional resources and templates, visit Autism Detect for guidance on autism-friendly job applications and workplace inclusion.