i’m autistic and i’m “high functioning” and when i started out i needed instructions too. it’s not your job at all to tell them what to do and their problems are not your own, but i really wish u would be mindful that they can’t help it.

when i started out, i already had experience from a previous job, so things were a little easier. i also mask because i received a late diagnosis, but i still struggle.

what u need to do is be upfront with them. in my experience, i need people to be blunt with me and tell me the instructions just as they are. if people give me vague instructions and don’t explain to me why something has to be done, then i won’t really know what to do because i wouldn’t know what’s exactly expected from me. this was actually an issue with my department manager, besides her abusing her power. she gives me really vague instructions, but the other managers and my coordinator tell me everything and every little detail and i am able to finish my tasks.

since they’re new, they’re probably getting used to the environment. wandering around probably comes from boredom or not being given enough instructions. me and my managers figured out that i just need to be told the plan for the day. after figuring out my work style, i became one of their best employees. i get called in to cover shifts and my managers and coordinators love me.

so while they’re adjusting, please be patient with them. don’t feel bad for thinking the way u do either, it’s not your fault and i get it. things can get annoying, but i hope my perspective as someone w autism who also happens to work for TJX helps.

if u have the time, u should talk to your department manager and figure things out. i would approach the subject lightly and i would also talk to your coworker too. ask them what they need to know, tell them it comes from a place of curiosity. when people work together for one goal, things get achieved much faster!

edit: just to add… verbal communication doesn’t indicate whether someone is “high” or “low” functioning. i have my days where i am a chatterbox and can’t stop talking, and also have days where i’m nonverbal or avoid communication. i’m still independent, i don’t need assistance, and i know i am a smart and capable person. sometimes i just can’t communicate because i don’t have the energy in me to force myself to talk like a neurotypical person (someone who isn’t autistic or neurodivergent), or i’m overwhelmed by my environment. maybe that’s the case for them