It’s 2022, and the world is still recovering from the pandemic loss. But is the world the same? Probably, the answer holds a 50-50 possibility of change. If you focus on markets, consumerism has moved to conscious buying, whereas the trends favor sustainable growth patterns. But that’s not all. A new wave of ‘diversity inclusion’ is becoming the central focus of all debates. And workplaces and communities welcome all forms of human diversity by creating more awareness and acceptance. For instance, businesses are opting for Neurodiversity clothing to create awareness and promote acceptance of neurodivergence in offices. But Why?
The DEI Commitments
The corporate world is going through a dynamic shift to incorporate Diversity-Equity-Inclusion as part of its business strategy. While doing so, they continuously ramp up their commitment to diversifying their workforce. The first thing to approach diversity inclusion is an improved and unbiased hiring process. But, often, Neurodiversity is left out of the inclusion processes.
As per reports, around 15-20% of the global human population is Neurodivergent yet gets minimal employment opportunities. The Neurodivergent community is deprived not only of economic opportunities but also of other areas of representation. Here, MNCs like Goldman Sachs play an active role in promoting the inclusion of all communities, whether they are neurodiverse or culturally diverse. They offer their diverse employees a better work environment where each individual can thrive, further contributing to the company’s development.
Challenges For Neurodiversity at the Workplace
Neurodiversity begins with the idea that neurological differences are normal variations in humans. It aims at creating more awareness and acceptance of the idea at all levels of society. However, Neurodiversity is an umbrella term encompassing individuals who may need full-time support to those who are exceptionally skilled. Even cultural perceptions hugely impact the framing of DEI strategies. These variations make it challenging for companies to approach Neurodiversity in the workplace holistically.
Benefits Of a Neurodiverse Workforce
When companies become diverse, they attract different viewpoints into their decision-making and product development processes. A diverse workforce with different cognitive abilities works wonderfully for businesses as they bring a different perspective to designs. Here’s a short list of benefits of Neurodiversity for companies:
Bring More Creative and Innovative Ideas
Neurodiverse employees see the world differently. They approach every problem with innovative solutions. It brings a creative advantage to companies that may otherwise overlook the potential of existing designs or proposed ideas.
Potential Pool of Talent
Amidst all the debates and discussions about the great resignation, studies suggest neurodivergent employees are less likely to resign and bring better company outcomes. Therefore, all companies should leverage the extreme potential of cognitive differences for their company growth.
Helps Other Employees Learn and Grow
When companies organize DEI events to attract and retain a diverse and talented workforce, they utilize tools ranging from Inclusive gifts like a Neurodiversity shirt to improvement in hiring processes. It helps clients and employees become aware of Neurodiversity. In this process, they also get a chance to learn and be empathetic about each other as employees.
Finally
Neurodiversity has been left out of Diversity Inclusion for long enough. And as we live in a globalized world, it is time for MNCs and businesses to play an active role in shaping a better future for everyone. One way to do it is with an inclusive approach towards Neurodievrsity, as the future is inclusive of all.
