Recently, there has been a positive trend among some major corporations, specifically In the U.S. The positive step is the fact that companies in these major corporations are waking up to the reality of increasing diagnoses of neurodiversity, such as Autism.
In response, they are implementing policies and practices to accommodate better and include neurodivergent individuals in the workplace. Some noteworthy examples of these progressive companies include Microsoft, Dell, and Ford.
Inclusive hiring and accessibility
Microsoft’s inclusive hiring and accessibility director, Neil Barnett, has reported that their efforts have resulted in employing approximately 300 full-time neurodivergent employees. One person who can attest to the success of these efforts is Natalie Worden-Cowe, a former professional musician who struggled with networking in her previous career and had difficulty navigating job interviews when she transitioned into software engineering.
However, after discovering Microsoft’s neurodiversity hiring program, Worden-Cowe found success and fulfillment in her new career path. She explains that she noticed the difference in the interview process at Microsoft. Unlike her previous experiences, she was given extra time to answer questions and had downtime between meetings with company employees. She adds that she was assigned a job coach to assist her with time management and prioritization.
Quieter and more customizable workspace
This has allowed her to excel in her role and feel included within the company culture. The Microsoft campus also offers designated “focus rooms” for employees needing a quieter and more customizable workspace. These rooms provide adjustable lighting and desk heights to accommodate individual sensory preferences.
Neil Barnett, director for inclusive hiring and accessibility, disagrees that providing accommodations for employees with disabilities costs companies revenue, efficiency, or productivity. He believes that they enhance workplace culture and contribute to increased overall well-being for all employees.
With the success of its neurodiversity hiring program, Microsoft is setting an example for other companies to follow and proving that diversity and inclusion can bring significant benefits to both employees and businesses. In addition, Judy Owen, vice president of diversity and inclusion at Dell Technologies, encourages employers to actively seek out neurodivergent individuals for employment opportunities, as they bring unique perspectives and valuable skills that can contribute to a company’s success.
Companies must adapt and embrace diversity in this ever-changing job market to stay competitive in the “war on talent.” Failure to do so will ultimately result in falling behind and missing out on talented individuals who can bring added value to the workplace.
Support for Individuals with special needs in Summerlin, Las Vegas
It’s relieving that more and more companies are recognizing the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. However, this is just the beginning, and there is still a long way to go.
Parents and caregivers of individuals with disabilities also play a crucial role in advocating for their loved ones and promoting inclusivity in society. Organizations such as the Nevada Autism Center work every day to provide support and services for individuals with disabilities and educate the community on the importance of diversity and inclusion.
