See the abilities, not the disability: Neurodiversity in the workplace

Everyone should be treated equally in the workplace, no matter who they are, where they come from or their cognitive differences

An oft-cited study estimates that the unemployment rate among adults with autism spectrum disorder stands at around 75-85%, despite the skills and advantages that such individuals can offer to roles in the tech industry.

But it’s not autism or any other neurodiverse condition that holds individuals back in the workplace, but discrimination itself. Neurodivergence isn’t an illness or a flaw: it simply means differences in cognitive processes.

And without a proper understanding of neurodivergent conditions or support for neurodivergent individuals, companies cannot be home to a completely diverse and inclusive workplace.

Here, we look at the benefits of a neurodiverse workplace, accessing neurodiverse talent, and how to be allies to neurodivergent colleagues.

What are the benefits of a neurodiverse workforce?

Neurodiversity is more common than we think -- it’s estimated that 1 in 7 people are in some way neurodivergent. In fact, autism spectrum disorders -- a diverse group of conditions that affect the way individuals communicate, interact, behave, and learn - affect around 75,000,000 people worldwide.

While it’s impossible to generalize their cognitive abilities, neurodivergent employees often have different abilities that can give your organization a competitive advantage. For example:

Neurodivergent employees can help you diversify your business outlook, apply creativity and innovation to challenges, and offer unique ideas and perspectives that benefit the workplace as a whole.

How to be an active ally to neurodivergent colleagues in the workplace

Every single one of us can become an ally to neurodivergent colleagues. For example, consulting neurodivergent colleagues before scheduling meetings can help them feel less overwhelmed while giving them specific instructions and confirming expectations helps them to understand each task and exactly what’s expected of them.

Plus, small details such as recording virtual meetings so that they can replay to confirm the work expected of them, as well as recognizing that small talk and unexpected desk visits might be difficult to deal with are also ways that we can expand our allyship in the workplace.

There are several ways organizations can foster active allyship with neurodivergent colleagues:

Keep listening to neurodivergent colleagues: Different individuals will have different experiences and preferences, so it’s important to listen and learn from neurodivergent colleagues.

What are the benefits of a neurodiverse workforce?

Neurodivergent employees make many essential contributions to the workplace that go above higher than average productivity. Providing an inclusive environment for neurodivergent people is a must for companies who are committed to fostering a diverse workplace and that want to obtain a competitive advantage.

Netcentric is committed to tackling workplace bias and fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone is equally valued and respected for who they are. We’re also always on the lookout for new talent to join our diverse team. Head to our careers page for our latest openings and find your next role in a company that values people from any and all backgrounds.