An autistic man has taken to LinkedIn to pen a heartfelt letter asking future employers to give him a chance when hiring him.
According to CNN, Ryan Lowry, who recently celebrated his 20th birthday, has shared a handwritten letter on LinkedIn, asking potential employers to take his neurodivergence into account when considering his job applications.
CNN reports that Ryan, who hails from Leesburg in Virginia, currently works at a coffee shop called SimplyBe, but wants to break into the animation industry or work in IT.
Ryan's heartfelt letter reads:
"Dear future employer, my name is Ryan Lowry, I am 19-years-old, live in Leesburg, Virginia, and I have autism.
"I also have a unique sense of humor, am gifted at math, really good with technology, and a really quick learner. I am interested in a job in animation or in IT.
"I realize that someone like you will have to take a chance on me. I don't learn like typical people do. I would need a mentor to teach me, but I learn quickly. Once you explain it, I get it."
The letter continues: "I promise that if you hire me and teach me, you'll be glad that you did. I will show up every day, do what you tell me to do, and work really hard.
"Please let me know if you would like to talk about this with me. Thank you. Sincerely, Ryan Lowry."
Ryan's letter has since accrued more than 176,000 likes and a further 5,900 comments from other users on the platform, with many employers and recruiters praising his drive and initiative.
For instance, one person wrote: "Hi, Ryan. I know a few people in animation and IT in Los Angeles. If that location works or if you could work remotely, I would be happy to connect you with any opportunities I can.
"Feel free to look at my connections and ask for introductions, or just message me and we can figure out who/what companies might interest you. I have a son on the spectrum and understand how challenging it can be to find a fit.
"You've made a great first step. Now let's see what can be done to get you hired."
Another person wrote: "Ryan, Every person on LinkedIn has been hired by at least one person that took a chance on him or her. I love your letter, attitude and self-awareness. Your experiences and talents will make you uniquely qualified for the right opportunity.
"You are interviewing the company and its culture the same way they are interviewing you for the right fit. Your desire to secure a position is evident.
"Arrive early and prepared for interviews, answer questions based on your experience, ask questions, and send thank you letters. A company will be more successful with you on their team. Best wishes!"
Finally, someone else wrote: "Hey Ryan - I too have Autism, and I know how hard this can be. If you'd like, I would be happy to help coach, teach and mentor you and help you follow your dreams of getting into the IT/tech industry where I have some experience :).
"Feel free to send me a message and I'll send you my contact info. Either way, don't get discouraged, you'll know what I mean when I say this, your unique way of learning and viewing the world is a gift, and it makes you very special. "
CNN reports that multiple companies have reached out to Ryan, including Exceptional Minds, a three-year program designed to teach people with autism about animation.
Commenting on the letter's effectiveness, Ryan's mother Tracy told the news outlet: "I'm in awe and never thought this would happen over one written letter.
"I'm overwhelmed with joy for Ryan and for it opening a whole topic of conversation among employers to helping ... people other than Ryan."
