What You Can Do as an Employer to Foster Neurodiversity
We all know, at least in theory, that a society that embraces neurodiversity is a more just place to exist. But are you doing your part to foster diversity? For example, are you welcoming neurodiverse individuals to your workplace? Some employers would be more open to this idea if they knew how to incorporate employees with autism into their operations. In this article, we will be discussing how to create a more neuro-diverse work environment and some of the myths surrounding neurodiversity in the workplace. Keep reading to learn more and contact ACES today for all of your ABA therapy and autism therapy needs!
Dispelling Some Myths
Neurodiversity means something’s wrong with the person.
Autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and ADHD result from common variations in the human brain.
Neurodiverse individuals are not qualified to work.
Studies in the UK have shown that 77% of fully qualified neurodivergent employees are bypassed for jobs. Most are even overqualified.
A neurodiverse individual’s potential is limited.
Winston Churchill, Albert Einstein, Steve Jobs, Thomas Edison, and Agatha Christie had neuro-divergencies and produced significant contributions to the world.
What You Can Do as an Employer
- Assess the position’s needs. Do you really need a software developer to have superior people skills? Probably not. You could be missing out on talent by focusing on requirements not relevant to the job.
- Promote a neuro-diverse atmosphere. Educate managers and coworkers on the best way to communicate and manage a diverse workforce. Encourage collaboration and teamwork when possible.
- Focus on the positive. Some neurodivergent individuals have an uncanny ability to identify patterns and trends. As a result, they can find solutions in unexpected places and unseen routes to solve problems.
We are all different in many ways. Our tastes, habits, and behaviors vary. But at the end of the day, it is our strengths that define us. By cherishing our diverse ways of thinking and approaching tasks, we are creating a more vital workplace for everyone.
At ACES, we are dedicated to improving the lives of those who are impacted by developmental disabilities like autism. We have been providing ABA therapy and have been a trusted autism therapy center for over 25 years. If you are interested in learning more about how to make your work environment more neuro-diverse or want to learn more about ABA therapy, contact us today!
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