Embracing Effective Communication: A Neurodiverse Perspective
By Ife Thomas
As Neurodiversity Week and Autism Month approach, my conversations with organizations seeking neurodiverse speakers highlight a significant shift in workplace dynamics.
More companies are now eager to understand and support their neurodiverse workforce, yet they often find themselves at a crossroads, unsure of how to ‘get it right’.
In my discussions, I’ve emphasised a crucial message: the responsibility of effective communication doesn’t solely lie with the employer. While their intention to support is commendable, the key to genuine understanding and accommodation lies within the individual employees, especially those who are neurodiverse.
Self-Advocacy and Solution-Focused Communication
For us in the neurodiverse community, it’s vital to cultivate self-awareness and confidence to articulate our unique needs.
I often share the example of my two sons, both autistic, yet with distinct needs. One requires a longer time to adjust to changes, while the other benefits from a short, precise heads-up. This diversity within even a single family exemplifies why one-size-fits-all solutions in the workplace are impractical.
This proactive approach forms the essence of what I call the ‘Elastic Mindset.’ It’s about adapting not just internally but also in how we interact with the world. By understanding ourselves and taking proactive steps to communicate our needs effectively, we can help create more inclusive environments.
As we observe Neurodiversity Week (18th- 24th March) and Autism Month in April, let’s encourage a dialogue where both neurodiverse individuals and their employers collaborate based on mutual understanding and respect. It’s about moving beyond assumptions to a space where each voice contributes to a more adaptable, empathetic, and inclusive workplace.
More companies are now eager to understand and support their neurodiverse workforce, yet they often find themselves at a crossroads, unsure of how to ‘get it right’.
In my discussions, I’ve emphasised a crucial message: the responsibility of effective communication doesn’t solely lie with the employer. While their intention to support is commendable, the key to genuine understanding and accommodation lies within the individual employees, especially those who are neurodiverse.
Self-Advocacy and Solution-Focused Communication
For us in the neurodiverse community, it’s vital to cultivate self-awareness and confidence to articulate our unique needs.
I often share the example of my two sons, both autistic, yet with distinct needs. One requires a longer time to adjust to changes, while the other benefits from a short, precise heads-up. This diversity within even a single family exemplifies why one-size-fits-all solutions in the workplace are impractical.
This proactive approach forms the essence of what I call the ‘Elastic Mindset.’ It’s about adapting not just internally but also in how we interact with the world. By understanding ourselves and taking proactive steps to communicate our needs effectively, we can help create more inclusive environments.
As we observe Neurodiversity Week (18th- 24th March) and Autism Month in April, let’s encourage a dialogue where both neurodiverse individuals and their employers collaborate based on mutual understanding and respect. It’s about moving beyond assumptions to a space where each voice contributes to a more adaptable, empathetic, and inclusive workplace.
