Neurodiversity in the workplace is an important topic that is often overlooked. Neurodiversity is the diversity of neurological conditions. This can include, but is not limited to, Autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, dyslexia, and Tourette syndrome. Neurodiversity is often seen as a disability. However, neurodiverse individuals have a lot to offer businesses and organizations. They have unique perspectives and skill sets that can be invaluable in the workplace. Neurodiversity should be embraced in the workplace, not only for the benefit of neurodiverse individuals, but for the benefit of the business as a whole. Neurodiversity can bring new perspectives, creativity, and innovation to businesses and organizations of all sizes.
What Is Neurodiversity?
A strong argument can be made that neurodiversity should be embraced in the workplace.
But, what is neurodiversity, really, and why does it matter? It speaks to brain function and behavioral traits. Most are regarded as normal or "neurotypical". Others are not considered "normal", typically in context the autism spectrum.
The neurodiversity movement started in the late 1990s as a response to the medical model of disability, which views neurocognitive conditions as static and unchanging. Neurodiversity advocates instead view neurocognitive conditions as part of the broad spectrum of human neurocognitive variation.
The neurodiversity movement challenges the medical model of neurodivergence, which pathologizes neurodivergent people and seeks to "cure" them. Instead, the neurodiversity movement affirms that neurodivergent people are just as valid as neurotypical people. Neurodiversity is about celebrating the diversity of human brains and nervous systems. It's about recognizing that there is not one "normal" way to be. We all have different strengths and weaknesses, and we all have something to contribute to society.
Neurodiversity In The Workplace
In recent years, neurodiversity in the workplace has become an increasingly important topic in the business world. As the workforce becomes more diverse, organizations are beginning to recognize the value that neurodiverse employees can bring to the table. In fact, many leading companies are now actively seeking out neurodiverse talent. Some organizations have even created neurodiversity initiatives, such as Microsoft's Neurodiversity Employment Program, which offers mentorship and support for neurodiverse job seekers (We’ll take a look at other neurodiversity friendly organizations in a bit). Neurodiversity at work is slowly becoming more celebrated in many different workplaces.
Benefits of Neurodiversity
What are the neurodiversity benefits? Neurodivergent individuals are often creative thinkers and are naturally able to see situations from a different lens. This diversity of thought is highly beneficial for consultants, who brainstorm solutions for a living. Fostering a most inclusive and diverse environment makes the workforce more accepting and successful. There is increasing evidence of increased employee retention and productivity amongst neurodivergent individuals as well.
Types Of Neurodiversity
Neurodiversity is a term used to describe the range of different neurotypes that exist within the population. Neurodiversity examples include ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Dyslexia, and Tourette's Syndrome. Neurodiversity is often seen as a positive thing, as it brings variety and interesting perspectives to the consulting world. However, many types of neurodiversity can also be seen as a challenge, as people with neurodiverse conditions may need special accommodations in order to be successful in the consulting world.
Common accommodations include flexible work hours, private work space, and access to support services. While accommodating neurodiversity can be seen as a challenge, many firms see it as an essential part of their commitment to diversity and inclusion. By embracing neurodiversity, consulting firms can create an environment that is more responsive to the needs of all employees.
Companies With Neurodiversity Programs
We have identified seven major companies with neurodiversity programs:
- EY
- JP Morgan
- Goldman Sachs
- IBM
- Dell Technologies
- SAP
- Microsoft
Does Management Consulting Embrace Neurodiversity?
While companies have become more aware of the importance of neurodiversity in recent years, management consulting has been slow to embrace it. This is unfortunate, as consulting companies could benefit greatly from the unique perspectives and skill sets that neurodiverse individuals have to offer. In order to remain competitive, companies must start to create neurodiversity programs that focus on attracting and retaining top talent. Luckily, there are a number of companies that are already leading the way in this area. By following their example, other companies can create neurodiversity programs that make their businesses stronger and more innovative. Companies with neurodiversity programs can attract some of the best talent available.
Conclusion
In recent years, there has been an increasing focus on neurodiversity in the workplace. Neurodiversity refers to the range of differences in brain function and structure, which can impact how people think, learn, and communicate. While neurodiversity is often seen as a negative condition, many companies are beginning to recognize the potential benefits of neurodiverse employees. For example, neurodiverse individuals often have unique perspectives and skill sets that can be invaluable in a consulting environment. In addition, neurodiverse employees can help to create a more inclusive and diverse workplace culture. As neurodiversity becomes more widely accepted, it is likely that more companies will begin to embrace it. This shift could potentially have a positive impact on the workplace as a whole.
Additional Resources:
- Leadership: Where Everything Rises and Falls
- Conflict Management: Styles, Strategies, & Examples
- Emotional Intelligence in Business
- The Pyramid Principle; Applied