Neurodiversity in the Workplace

An increasing number of forward-thinking organisations are taking a pro-active approach to neurodiversity in the workplace.

7 reasons why embracing and supporting 'neurodiversity' is good for business:

• An estimated 18% of the population are 'neurodiverse' and many of these individuals are unaware of their own challenges (and the remaining 82% of the population are all unique too - every brain is different).   
  

• Unsupported 'neurodiverse' individuals often experience work related stress and under perform at work due to lack of appropriate coping strategies and they often don't seek help for fear of being seen as failing. 
  

• There are neurodiverse individuals in every workplace. (Dyslexia, dyscalculia, dyspraxia, ADD, ADHD, ASD). (This includes countless 'literate dyslexics' many of whom are in senior positions in the workplace or running their own businesses).
  

• Embracing & supporting neurodiverse individuals appropriately improves productivity, enhances workplace culture and impacts on wellbeing - and often the new strategies and tools these individuals start to use are adopted by their colleagues because they realize there can be more effective ways of working.
  

• Poor performance often results in performance management but pro-active managers consider 'processing differences' and appropriate support - thus avoiding possible future litigation.  (Equality Act 2010). 
  

• It is well documented that neurodiverse individuals often have key strengths and when they gain self awareness and confidence many reveal latent potential and become a real asset to their employing organisation.   
  

• Lack of awareness of neurodiverse conditions and lack of appropriate support for these individuals has a hidden cost to business.

If you have a member of staff who is under-performing have you considered whether it could be their 'processing differences' rather than their ability which is holding them back?  Would you like to find out more about how to ensure managers and HR can take the most appropriate steps to improve workplace performance?