Some men are born more equal than others

Equal opportunities… I don’t think so! I feel that the so-called equal opportunities are non-existent among employers.

I suffer from Asperger’s syndrome, a high-functioning autism. This relates to socialising and non-verbal problems. I always say to people that this will not affect my design and personal performance. Now I feel I have been wrongly judged and ignored, despite the fact I was trained the ordinary way like everyone else (first and national diplomas and an HND in graphics) and made an extra effort with DTP design courses and gaining any kind of placement experience.

I have had a large number of interviews in the West Midlands region and have always had very good feedback on my portfolio, but get denied with the excuse of not enough experience.

Despite my extra efforts the door of opportunities is closed in my face. I know it is a competitive world out there, but I feel my Asperger’s syndrome condition and autism are automatic disadvantages. So next time you hear an employer talk of equal opportunities, ask yourself, “Is it just promotional shop talk?”

I say to graphic design companies, and to ones in the West Midlands in particular, I have creative talent and try to keep myself informed of what’s happening in the design industry, so please just give me a chance.

Keith Mckenzie

keith_mckenzie@hotmail.com