A majority of Americans, 81%, say companies should do more to remove barriers such as discriminatory hiring policies or practices that keep people from being hired or promoted, according to a survey released by Kelly Services (NASDAQ: KELYA, KELYB) for World Autism Awareness Month.

“Overlooked talent communities offer businesses a competitive advantage,” Kelly President and CEO Peter Quigley said.

The survey also found:

• 74% say they are more likely to support a business or company that makes employment opportunities available to individuals on the autism spectrum.
• 80% agree individuals on the autism spectrum can perform and even excel in specific areas and work environments.
• 77% find it unacceptable that 85% of college-educated adults on the autism spectrum are unemployed.

“With companies becoming more open to adjusting simple processes such as the type of interview questions they ask, we are seeing a path for dream jobs coming true for these talented candidates who previously had difficulty getting past the first hurdle in the employment process,” said Kathy Hardy, VP at Kelly Discover, which helps connect companies with undiscovered talent communities, including workers on the autism spectrum.

“It’s really exciting to see this,” Hardy said. “In addition, our research indicates that companies are experiencing a 21% increase in financial performance when they prioritize hiring a diverse and inclusive workforce.”