Embracing Neurodiversity in the Workplace: Strategies for Inclusion and Support

“Neurodivergent” is a nonmedical term that describes people whose brains develop or work differently. Neurodiversity in the workplace is a critical topic that emphasizes the importance of recognizing and valuing the diverse ways people think, learn and interact. 

Neurodiversity encompasses a range of conditions, including autism spectrum disorder, or ASD, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, dyslexia, post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, traumatic brain injuries and more. Many popular sources today suggest that 15% to 20% of the U.S. population is neurodivergent.¹ However, since neurodiversity encompasses a wide range of diagnosable conditions, the exact prevalence is difficult to determine.  

By understanding and embracing neurodiversity, organizations can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all employees. This approach not only benefits neurodivergent individuals but also significantly enhances overall workforce productivity and creativity. Many people with these disorders are noted to have higher-than-average abilities with research showing that some conditions, including ASD and dyslexia, can bestow special skills in pattern recognition, memory or mathematics.² Studies also suggest that neurodiverse teams may be 30% more productive than their neurotypical counterparts and make fewer errors.³ Employers like Ford Motor Company, JPMorgan Chase and Microsoft have established neurodiversity hiring initiatives and partnerships to leverage the diverse strengths, talents and skills that neurodiverse workers contribute to their organizations.⁴ 

Creating a neurodiverse environment should begin by asking each worker about their specific needs, as there is no “one size fits all” solution. Accommodation options for neurodivergent employees may include: 

Accommodations for Sensory Issues 

• Adjustable lighting: Allowing employees to adjust the brightness can help mitigate sensory overload.
• Fidgets: Small objects that can be manipulated with the hands may help with focus, comfort and sensory regulation.
• Noise-canceling headphones: These can help reduce auditory distractions and improve focus.
• Quiet areas or offices: Providing designated quiet areas, single offices with doors or a space where employees can work alone can offer a peaceful workspace. 

Communication Strategies 

• Clear language: Avoiding metaphors, idioms or sarcasm can prevent misunderstandings.
• Email as primary communication: Offering email rather than face-to-face communication can be more comfortable for some employees. If face-to-face meetings are required, following up with a written meeting summary can be helpful.
• Speech-to-text and text-to-speech software: These tools can improve the accuracy and accessibility of communication.
• Summaries or transcripts: Offering written summaries or transcripts of meetings and trainings helps to ensure that information is accessible.
• Written and visual aids: Using written and visual aids can enhance understanding and retention.
• Written questions in advance: Providing questions in writing before meetings can help employees prepare and engage better.  

Task Management Aids 

• Chunking work tasks: Helping employees break down tasks into designated blocks of time and identifying “do not disturb” times can improve productivity.
• Elicit employee ideas: Listening to employees' ideas for accommodations that work for them and fostering an inclusive environment can tap into their unique strengths, leading to increased innovation and problem-solving.
• Flexible work schedules and remote options: Offering flexible work schedules and remote work options can accommodate diverse needs.
• Regular meetings with supervisors: Providing weekly meetings one or two times per week with supervisors to review task assignments and progress, can offer support and guidance.
• Task prioritization with clear deadlines: Assigning tasks with predetermined due dates and priority levels ensures clarity and organization.
• Technology aids: Making technology available, such as Outlook Tasks, Microsoft To Do, smart pens and large clock-face timers, can enhance task management. 

The Standard’s Workplace Possibilities^SM program, or WPP, offers limited-duration job coaching services to employees with cognitive processing differences, impairments in executive functioning and neurodivergent conditions. This program provides comprehensive support, including a review of documentation and an interview with the employee to assess their needs and provide recommendations. WPP consultants, who specialize in job coaching services, assist employees in learning and implementing compensatory strategies, behavioral changes and professional skills to improve specific job tasks and make them more successful in the workplace. By offering these services, organizations can help neurodivergent employees thrive in their roles and contribute meaningfully to the workplace. 

For more accommodations ideas, visit the Job Accommodation Network. Contact a representative near you if you have questions or want more information about The Standard’s Workplace Possibilities program.