Neurodiversity describes the natural way that people think, learn, perceive the world, interact, and process information differently. People whose brains and nervous systems function “typically” are known as neurotypical people. Research suggests that up to 15-25% of the population is neurodivergent. You likely currently, work with and socialize with a significant number of people who are neurodivergent, including family members, coworkers, colleagues and friends.
Neurodiversity includes:
A workplace that supports all types of ways to think, learn, interact, and perceive the world supports neurodiversity. Fostering a neurodiverse workplace can help organizations to thrive, as a workforce that includes people with a variety of perspectives, backgrounds and experiences can improve creativity, innovation and problem solving.
Innovation calls on firms to include people and ideas “from the edges.” Having employees with disabilities across departments helps ensure that the products and services that go to market are truly inclusive.
Inclusion of the Neurodiverse may represent the next frontier of corporate social responsibility and improves overall workplace culture.
Empowered companies are not merely compliant or acting out of perceived obligation. They are excitedly embracing the advantages that come with employing more creative, industrious, and well-rounded people for the future of work.
Your company may be significantly underutilizing this critical talent pool. Research from the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD), reveals that companies that “embrace best practices for employing and supporting more persons with disabilities in their workforce have outperformed their peers”. While we don’t see Neurodiversity as “disability” the findings still stand to support that hiring neurodivergent workers can offer organizations a competitive edge, often bringing measurable financial and cultural benefits.
A lack of understanding of the scope of the talent available.
A lack of understanding of the potential benefits
Misconceptions about the cost versus the ROI of disability inclusion.
Develop your neurodiversity hiring program.
Neurodiversity awareness training for your neurotypical staff
Coaching resources for neurodiverse employees to reach their full potential.
