gtag('config', 'G-EWVTF29SDB'); G-9C9J1Q44S2 AW-990359549 G-9C9J1Q44S2 AW-990359549

Neurodiversity: What Employers and Hiring Managers Need To Know

We recognize that there are many points of view regarding Neurodiversity and Autism Spectrum Disorders. We do our best to provide the most up-to-date information and resources, but we know that we may not always get it right. We invite feedback, even if it's negative, as long as it's constructive. We try our best to be open-minded, to learn from our mistakes, and to continuously improve. Thank you.

-----------------------

What is Neurodiversity? What is Neurodiversity? - Genius Within


WHAT ARE THE NEURODIVERSE VARIATIONS?

“These differences can include... Dyspraxia, Dyslexia, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Dyscalculia, Autistic Spectrum, Tourette Syndrome and others.”

— SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY, NATIONAL SYMPOSIUM ON NEURODIVERSITY 2011

Neurodiversity is a combination of traits that are seen as both strengths and challenges. 

Depending on the neurodiverse variation and its intensity, individuals can display strengths in different areas, including:

AUTISM  

  • average to very high intelligence
  • good verbal skills, rich vocabulary
  • ability to think in visual images and identify patterns
  • propensity to think outside the box and generate novel solutions to problems
  • ability to absorb and retain large amounts of information, especially about topics of special interest
  • detail oriented
  • ability to focus for long periods on areas of interest
  • ability to perform repetitive tasks where accuracy, rules and routine are important
  • reliability and punctuality
  • honest, loyal, fair and just
  • non-judgmental listening

DYSLEXIA

  • improved visual processing and pattern recognition
  • good spatial knowledge
  • seeing the bigger picture, often seeing things more holistically
  • mechanical aptitude
  • picture thinkers
  • sharper peripheral vision
  • highly creative
  • creativity and entrepreneurial proclivities
  • 50% of NASA employees are dyslexic

ADHD (ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER)

  • hyper-focused
  • higher levels of creativity and curiosity,
  • innovation and inventiveness
  • leadership abilities
  • high energy, spontaneity and productivity

DYSPRAXIA

  • creativity and original thinking
  • good strategic thinking and problem-solving
  • determination and hard-working
  • highly motivated
  • able to develop their own strategies to overcome difficulties

DYSCALCULIA

  • creativity
  • strategic and intuitive thinking
  • practical ability
  • problem solving
  • love of words

DYSGRAPHIA

  • good verbal reasoning