Tapping the Power of Neurodiversity in the Workplace
As employers seek out ways to build a diverse, equitable and inclusive workforce, many are exploring the tangible benefits of neurodiversity and neurodivergent employees. To help businesses learn more about neurodiversity and how to recruit, hire, retain and advance neurodivergent people, the Employer Assistance and Resource Network on Disability Inclusion (EARN) offers a valuable online toolkit.
The term “neurodivergent” has many definitions, and according to the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, it refers to people “whose brain functions differ from those who are neurologically typical, or neurotypical.” This includes disabilities such as autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, Tourette’s syndrome, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, intellectual disability and schizophrenia.
EARN’s Neurodiversity in the Workplace Toolkit explores the “why” and “how” of capitalizing on the neurodivergent talent pool. After all, many neurodivergent people—and their satisfied employers—will tell you that their disabilities are assets that bring benefits to businesses and employees alike.
The toolkit explores those benefits in-depth. It also features profiles of leading companies and partners that have launched neurodiversity hiring initiatives; guidance on workplace and interview accommodations for neurodivergent employees; tips on offering peer training and mentoring programs; and a library of articles, blogs, videos and podcasts on the topic.
To learn more about this important facet of workplace diversity, visit the Neurodiversity in the Workplace Toolkit and learn more about EARN.