When researching roles and organizations, search for a dedication to DEI and neurodiversity within the firm’s imaginative and prescient and mission. Nameless overview websites like Glassdoor are nice instruments for gathering perception into the group’s tradition and worker expertise. Search for crimson flags in opinions that may recommend an disagreeable expertise for a neurodivergent individual.
Again after I was interviewing for my first job at Ogilvy, I used to be given a take-home take a look at that was untimed. I submitted it and so they didn’t assume it was my very own work, so that they had me come to the workplace for a timed take a look at. They requested me to write down a two-page press launch, however I couldn’t comprehend the written instructions and full the take a look at within the half-hour they gave me. I took a courageous step and defined my battle, and the top of the workplace took an opportunity on me.
If disclosing a studying and considering distinction feels comfy in the course of the software and interview course of, ask questions on how the corporate can meet particular person wants, comparable to flexibility to have extra time on an interview task. To get a way of the tradition, take into account asking questions on how the corporate helps staff with related struggles. Another choice is to say one thing extra normal like, “Inform me in regards to the group’s worker useful resource teams.”
On the subject of the bodily working surroundings, take into account asking about elements like noise, lighting and work-from-home alternatives. Pay attention for solutions that recommend there’s flexibility and an openness to new concepts. If the questions are met with silence or an uncomfortable stare, it in all probability means the corporate isn’t arrange for a neurodivergent worker to succeed.
Handle challenges, discover assist, construct confidence
Disclosing is a really private choice and may solely be performed if somebody feels comfy. However I found early on that talking up is a confidence-builder, and it’s helped me thrive professionally.
Early in my profession, I knew I wanted mentors to assist me as a person with distinctive strengths. I additionally wanted co-workers to assist me perceive the workplace tradition and what was anticipated so I may assimilate into the office. Discovering the best folks to reveal this sort of data with and who perceive the distinctive challenges and strengths may also help with a quicker progress trajectory and foster group internally. Contemplate connecting with folks exterior the corporate by organizations just like the Consideration Deficit Dysfunction Affiliation, the Autistic Self Advocacy Community or the Asperger/Autism Network for mentorship and coaching.
If someone struggles with multitasking, consider using a visual aid like a flow chart to keep track of tasks and projects. Or if someone is easily distracted in meetings—something those with ADHD struggle with—consider asking for pre-reads or other materials to go over at a more individualized pace. If lengthy emails are overwhelming, ask co-workers to leave a brief voice message or use bullet points in their emails. It’s all about finding what works for the individual.
