One in five individuals are neurodivergent1, a new study in the UK has revealed. Whilst this makes up a signification portion of the UK workforce, shockingly, only half of people surveyed feel that their organisation provides an open and supportive climate.
In today’s dynamic work environment, inclusivity and diversity are vital for fostering innovation and productivity. As Gen Z emerges as one of the most diverse generations, recent research highlights 80% 2 of Gen Z individuals are less likely to pursue job opportunities in environments lacking support for health issues and neurodiversity. By not creating these supportive environments, companies could find themselves missing out on a huge section of the talent pool.
To address this gap and foster an inclusive workplace, office furniture specialists Furniture At Work, have teamed up with Career and People Advisor at Search Laboratory, Matt Berry-Hewitt, to share essential self-care and workplace tips to help neurodivergent employees thrive.
1. Establish work-life boundaries
Establishing work-life boundaries can be particularly helpful for neurodiverse people to compartmentalize parts of life. Matt comments: “Imagine you’ve got two boxes in your brain, one labelled work and the other labelled personal life. The lid can only be open on one box at a time, and it’s crucial to keep it that way. This won’t happen overnight, but having clear boundaries about where your mindset should be will help massively. For neurodivergent people, this separation can be particularly challenging because they may struggle with transitioning between tasks and environments.”
Matt adds that it’s important to avoid anxiety triggers where possible: “Avoid triggers—ask yourself if that half-hour caffeine buzz is worth the four-hour anxiety rollercoaster. You’ll sleep better without it.”
2. Manage stress and sensory overload
If you’re prone to anxiety or can struggle with feeling overwhelmed, having some handy tricks to help manage these struggles may be useful. “Having a simple coping mechanism that you can automatically use when things get too much is important. For example, if you get overwhelmed, start counting your fingers on one hand with your thumb to re-centre yourself and bring you back to the present.”
Other proven techniques to manage sensory overload include noise-canceling headphones, which can aid in quietening down exterior noise and help you to focus on the task at hand. It may also be worth booking out deep work blocks or ‘quiet time’ in your calendar to avoid distractions, interruptions and have time to focus on solo tasks.
3. Keep work emails off your phone
Even though many neurodivergent people can often hyperfocus on work, it’s important to allow yourself appropriate breaks without the guilt. Matt explains: “Keep your boundaries clear and firm. Do not let work consume your life outside of the hours you’re paid for. Once you’re done, don’t reopen your laptop until the next working day. If you have work emails and Teams on your phone, restrict notification times. Adopt the mindset that work and personal life are separate and do not mix. Don’t be afraid to say no to tasks that will push you back or take up too much time. Keep that line in the sand.”
4. Open conversations with your manager
It might be difficult at first, however having an open and honest relationship with your line manager will make a huge difference to your productivity and overall mood. Matt comments: “Be honest and remember, your manager is there to support, uplift, and empower you to be the best version of yourself at work. If you need to adjust something to make it work, talk to them about it. A good manager will ensure that it works. Remember, you’re in your role for a reason, so be confident in your abilities to excel.
“However, if you find something challenging, talk to your manager and team. They might offer solutions or pathways you haven’t considered that could help everything fall into place for you.”
5. Maximise strengths and skills
Once you identify your strengths, use these to help build on your skills and excel. “As a manager, it’s crucial to identify the strengths and skillsets of each employee. Discover what they excel at and lean into those strengths. Provide regular feedback and structured support to avoid overwhelm, and to highlight their achievements and empower them to thrive.
“However, from an employee’s POV, recognise your worth, there is a reason you’re in the role you’re doing and it’s because you’re a star, we’re all going to feel uncertain in our abilities from time to time, but remember that occasional setbacks are a natural part of growth.”
Matt explains both individual quiet time and teamwork are important for neurodivergent people, depending on how each individual works best in specific environments. “A tailored work environment helps too, have you got quiet spaces? Is your flexible working policy really that flexible to help give your employees the best possible environment to thrive in? Encourage teamwork and collaboration, emphasizing that support is always available.”
With the right support and ways of working in your role, neurodiversity does not limit the capabilities, talents or progression throughout your career.
A spokesperson at Furniture at Work commented on the tips:
“We understand that the key to unlocking the full potential of neurodivergent employees lies in prioritising their well-being and ensuring they are adequately prepared for workplace demands. To help employees thrive, create an open and adaptable space that works around employees and allows them to flourish”.
For more stress-busting and general well-being tips to help you in the workplace, visit the Furniture At Work blog.
Sources:
1 in 5 study: https://www.cipd.org/uk/knowledge/reports/neuroinclusion-at-work/
80% of Gen Z stat: https://www.creativespirit-us.org/the-future-of-the-ada-how-gen-z-is-embracing-disabilities-and-neurodiversity/