The Benefits of Hiring Neurodivergent Employees
Many people who identify as being neurodiverse, which covers neurological conditions such as Aspergers, Autism, ADHD and Dyslexia, are reported as being under supported at work.
Australian and international statistics also indicate that between 52% and 60% of people with a disability or neurodiverse are unemployed. This does not include the large numbers that are underemployed (employed less than 32 hours a week) where they have the capacity and desire to work more.
With the often highly valuable workplace strengths that neurodiverse people possess, this represents a significant opportunity for organisations to access a capable and willing pool of talent.
Unfortunately, the neurodiverse community is often at a disadvantage during application and selection processes due to challenges with social interactions or communication skills and at times ‘jagged’ resumes as a result of prior challenges in finding and retaining employment.
When combined with a lack of awareness and understanding of recruiters and hiring managers, this group of people will often face hurdles just too high to leap.
Employers can leverage a range of approaches to create successful employment outcomes for the neurodiverse community. Every individual is different, with their own unique talents and challenges.
Whilst at times generalised accommodations will meet some or many of the needs of most people, each is still different.
As well as their individual strengths and talents, neurodiverse employees will often possess highly desirable capabilities such as:
high levels of concentration
reliability, conscientiousness and persistence
accuracy, attention to detail and the ability to identify errors
technical ability, such as in IT, engineering or sciences
detailed factual knowledge and an excellent memory
creativity especially in visual or spatial or process activities
high levels of intellect and thinking
Just like everyone, neurodiverse people maybe more suited to specific types of roles. Through questioning and investigation you gain insight into the specific strengths and interests of the individual to better understand where and how they can contribute the most value to your organisation.
By being more inclusive you are also able to help lift overall engagement, creativity and innovation throughout your organisation.
Managers and peers of neurodiverse staff often report improvements in their ability to communicate, organise and prioritise their work and discover more opportunities for improvement to their functions as a result of working with neurodiverse team members.
To learn more about Neurodiverse inclusion and how it could potential impact your organisation talk to us about what a virtual training session could look like.
