Contrary to the stigmas surrounding neurodivergence (ADHD, autism, Down syndrome, dyslexia, etc.), employees with a neurodivergent brain bring immense added value to the team and are an asset to the company overall. Therefore, let us discuss in more detail the unique strengths, talents, and skills that these neurodivergent colleagues often possess. It is important to note that each person is unique, and not every neurodivergent individual will have these strengths.
Creative thinking
Neurodivergent employees might often bring the team fresh perspectives and unique ideas, which can lead to innovation and better products, services, or processes.
For example, a product team had been stuck on a design problem until a neurodivergent colleague suggested an out-of-the-box solution, ultimately leading to a more user-friendly design.
Viewing problems from different angles
Many neurodivergents look at problems or issues from a different perspective (thinking outside the box), which may lead to new solutions for complex problems.
Consider a manufacturing issue where a production line kept encountering glitches. A neurodivergent team member looked at the problem through a different lens and proposed a process change that fixed the issue and significantly improved efficiency.
Recognising patterns and seeing the bigger picture
Some neurodivergents more quickly notice outliers, discover root causes or build a helicopter view. This leads to better-informed decisions and seizing opportunities for optimisation in the market or system.
For example, a neurodivergent employee in a logistics company noticed inefficiencies in the supply chain that others hadn’t considered. By focusing on the broader system, they suggested adjustments that streamlined operations and reduced costs.
Visual thinking
Another often recurring strength is visual thinking. Visual thinkers summarise and translate information into a more visual communication style. This leads to conveying complex data or ideas clearly and attractively, making it easier for everyone to understand. Imagine a project report transformed into an engaging infographic.
High focus, enthusiasm and energy for passions
Neurodivergent team members are often very committed to a task or project and motivate the entire team with contagious enthusiasm and passion. This can result in improved team dynamics, a positive & productive atmosphere and, eventually, the successful completion of a project ahead of schedule.
Taking calculated risks
Some neurodivergents are very good at figuring out risks, which may result in thoughtful experiments that lead to new insights.
A neurodivergent tech founder tried a new go-to-market strategy for an open-source software product. Despite initial scepticism, the experiment led to an enormous success for the company and valuable insights for the open-source community.
Attaching great importance to fairness & greater perseverance
By working and living in a world that is not neurodiverse-friendly, neurodivergents often attach great importance to equity and have built remarkable perseverance.
In a challenging project, their dedication may inspire the team to overcome obstacles and achieve the agreed goals while ensuring a fair and inclusive work environment for everyone.
For example, in a quality assurance team, a neurodivergent team member’s resilience in troubleshooting errors was key to fixing and avoiding them in due time.
Communicating openly & transparently
A neurodivergent colleague with a direct and transparent communication style fosters candour and trust within the team.
For example, this may be your go-to person for honest feedback on an idea. Their openness might encourage others to share ideas freely, leading to better learning and a more collaborative work environment.
Creating value with neurodiverse perspectives
In conclusion, the benefits of unlocking the power of neurodiversity in the workplace are manifold. From fostering innovation through unique problem-solving capabilities to enhancing team dynamics with a variety of thinking styles, neurodivergent individuals contribute significantly to a vibrant and effective work environment. Their strengths, often overlooked due to prevailing stigmas, are, in fact, powerful catalysts for growth and improvement within any organization.
At Bjièn, we are committed to helping businesses understand and leverage these unique qualities. Through our expert-led keynotes, comprehensive workshops, and tailored consulting services, we guide organizations in creating and sustaining neuroinclusive cultures that not only support but celebrate the contributions of every team member.
Ready to transform your workplace into a hub of innovation and inclusion? Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your company excel by unlocking the power of neurodiversity. Let’s work together to build resilient and productive neurodiverse teams that drive your business forward.
Daphné learnt how to create a safe work environment for and lead a team of neurodivergent people, after she was diagnosed with ADHD and autism. She started Bjièn with Dietrich to help other leaders and teams with the awareness of neurodiversity and make their workplace neuroinclusive. — More about Daphné