For many autistic adults, social interactions in the workplace—like knowing what to say in meetings, in an email, or during breaks—can feel challenging. Social scripts offer a structured way to handle these situations, helping to reduce stress, increase comfort (especially when expressing needs), and maintain personal boundaries.
What is a Social Script?
A social script is a prepared set of words or phrases designed to guide you through common interactions. Think of it as a “template” for what to say in specific situations, making it easier to respond or initiate conversations. Social scripts are especially useful for answering frequently asked questions or expressing your needs clearly.
Example: Communicating a Need for Alone Time at Lunch
Here’s how a script might look if you want to let others know you prefer a quiet lunch break:
To your manager: “To improve my work performance, I need a quiet lunch break to refresh. Socialising doesn’t help me recharge.”
To your team: “I like people, but I find groups tiring. I’m happy having my lunch on my own.”
Tips for Creating and Using Social Scripts
Social scripts are most effective when they sound like you—written and spoken in your natural “voice.” Since every workplace situation is different, it’s helpful to create scripts that feel authentic to you and fit your unique communication style.
Here are some tips for creating and using social scripts:
Keep Track of Challenging Situations: Start by noting down situations where you struggled to find the right words, like introducing yourself to new colleagues or explaining your preferred working arrangements.
Create Simple Phrases: For each scenario, write a short phrase that feels comfortable to say. Keep it direct and clear.
Practice: Practise your scripts—this will help you feel more confident when these situations arise.
Consider keeping a notebook or document (like a Word file or Google Doc) where you can develop and store your scripts. Over time, this list will grow into a valuable resource for navigating workplace interactions.
Final Thoughts
Social scripts are a simple yet powerful tool to help you feel more at ease in workplace interactions. Start with one or two scripts for common scenarios, and adjust as needed. By using scripts, you can focus more on your work and less on the stress of what to say next.
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