Why Companies Should Embrace Neurodiversity in the Workplace

Embracing neurodiversity in the workplace can bring about a multitude of unexpected benefits and surprising results. Neurodiversity speaks to the idea that individuals experience and interact with their environment differently than others. This can influence how they learn and process new ideas, how they perceive the world around them, and how they approach various problems. At Direct Care Innovations, we want to encourage you to embrace and celebrate neurodiversity at your workplace.

Differences Not Deficits

There was a time when being neurodiverse meant that an individual had certain deficits and could not function as well as others. Fortunately, that view has changed. A neurodiverse individual perceives the world around them differently than a neurotypical individual. This influences the way they think, learn, and behave, which is not wrong, only different. ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and dyspraxia are all on the neurodiversity spectrum. Employers who enthusiastically welcome employees who are neurodivergent to their workplace can greatly benefit from the talents and skills these individuals bring to their positions. 

What are some of the differences often seen in the neurodiverse community? While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to neurodiversity, there are some typical characteristics that are common to those who are neurodivergent.

• Highly responsive central nervous system
• High-achieving and results-oriented
• Thrive on precise performance
• Sensitive to outside stimuli 
• Meticulous attention to detail
• Creative problem-solving skills  

When employers hire neurodivergent individuals to be a part of their team, they are not only embracing an often overlooked part of our population, but they will discover that these individuals’ work ethic, creative thinking, and valuable perspectives can significantly improve and grow their business. 

Why Embrace Neurodiversity in the Workplace?

Embracing neurodiversity can bring new strengths and benefits to businesses and organizations in many different areas. Their workplace may experience an increase in productivity and innovative growth born from new ideas and out-of-the-box thinking. The overall culture of the work setting may change as well. Fellow employees may begin to accept neurodivergence as something to be celebrated and not shy away from. Managers and supervisors begin to better understand the various needs of their employees, not only those who are neurodivergent. A workforce that fosters diversity and inclusivity has the potential to become a place of understanding, encouragement, and ultimately, success. 

A Mindful Approach 

When hiring neurodivergent individuals, employers need to understand the various challenges that many neurodiverse people face in a work setting. This requires a mindful and open approach to understanding how people communicate, learn, and perceive their environments, and then listening to the needs of individuals and making adjustments as necessary.

• Employees should feel free to bring their concerns to supervisors and managers.
• Open discussions need to be encouraged to break down barriers and avoid stigmas.
• Employers can provide a variety of resources, such as mentoring programs or one-on-one support, to assist neurodivergent individuals.
• Adjustments should be highly encouraged and welcomed, such as flexible break and lunch times or hybrid schedules that include remote and on-site work.

Helping all employees grow and succeed is the overall goal of embracing neurodiversity in the workplace. In doing so, employers will create a comfortable and open environment that leads to a positive company culture and employees who absolutely love their jobs. 

Let Direct Care Innovations Support You

Direct Care Innovations proudly celebrates neurodiversity in the workplace and encourages our partners to do the same. As you serve individuals who are neurodivergent or living with intellectual or developmental disabilities, we are here to support you and help you run every aspect of your business smoothly and without interruption. To learn more or to request a sales demo, contact us at (480) 295-3307. Our business management software can be custom-tailored to your specific needs and includes modules such as electronic visit verifications, real-time authorization management, scheduling and shift trading, client ratings, and more.

Source: Price, Alan. “Neurodiversity And The Workplace.” Web article. Forbes. 15 Feb. 2022. Web. 01 Feb. 2023.