Really this should read ‘how can neurodiversity be celebrated in the workplace’, because it’s the combination of many great, but different, minds that make an organisation so successful.
If we were all wired the same way, there would be fewer ideas, less creativity and problem-solving solutions would be limited. Thankfully, in most workplaces, this isn’t the case. Ideas and different ways of thinking are celebrated but imagine if they weren’t. There would be no inventions, fewer breakthroughs and businesses would find themselves plateauing.
Neurodivergent conditions that can affect someone in the workplace can include autism, ADHD and dyslexia amongst other things. The enhanced diversity of a workforce has infinite advantages including a wider diversity of thought, enhanced innovation, improved processes and a much wider and richer pool of talent.
Supporting neurodiversity in the workplace means creating an inclusive environment that recognises and values the unique strengths of all employees. Of course, with so many different individuals in a workplace, with different fortes and challenges, there is no one size fits all approach to how that workplace should function. All organisations must adopt a neuroinclusive approach. This means looking at the work environment, equipment and schedules and ensuring that all elements of working life are adaptable for everyone.
How you can create a neurodiverse-friendly workplace:
The layout of the workplace
Open plan layouts of an office, for example, may not work well for neurodivergent employees. Too much noise and bright lights can be a sensory overload for many. The same can be said for hot-desking when an employee is expected to work from a different desk location each day. Where possible, provide quiet areas to work in for those who require them and dedicated spaces for employees who don’t necessarily adjust well to change.
Make adjustments
Being in a busy and noisy work environment can be problematic for someone with neurodivergent symptoms, for example a busy call centre with lots of people talking at any one time and lots of phones ringing throughout the day. Noise cancelling headphones can be an effective solution to help block out the noise somewhat. Bright lights can also be a hinderance so it’s useful to look at zone-controlled lighting to provide more subtly lit areas to work in.
Be adaptable
Traditional working practices tend to be designed with a ‘normal / neurotypical’ employee in mind. Not everyone performs at their best between the hours of 9-5. More flexible working hours can really help employees by giving them the freedom to work during the hours when they feel more productive.
When looking at equipment it is also important to think about what other adjustments can be made. Standing desks are good for those who find it more challenging to sit still for too long. For those with dyslexia, assistive technologies such as text-to-speech tools may also be useful. Someone with ADHD who might find it hard to keep on top of tasks may find daily planners and organisational software useful.
Be inclusive
Ensure you are providing regular training sessions to educate employees about neurodiversity, the needs of individuals and the benefits to the organisation of having a diverse skill-set. It’s important to foster a culture of understanding and acceptance from within the organisation. Recruitment also needs to inclusive. We can do this by writing job descriptions that focus more on essential skills and competencies rather than on unnecessary qualifications or experiences. You should also ensure the recruitment process is bias free and accessible to all.
Look at individual qualities
Take a strengths-based approach by taking time to get to know all employees and working together to understand their strengths and challenges. Where possible, allow everyone to play to their strengths and skill set and embrace any uniqueness.
Supporting neurodiversity in the workplace is an ongoing effort. It’s important to create an inclusive environment where everybody can thrive. By implementing these strategies, businesses can harness the unique talents of all individuals and create a productive and dynamic workplace.
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