A new topic: neurodiversity and inclusion in workplaces

Autism as a phenomenon is not new. So, the only new aspect is that the inclusion of people on the autistic spectrum in the world of work could be rewarding. And maybe it will lastly be required in the medium term.

Firstly, I would like to propose software development (it seems to be a kind of standard job offer, here). But I would also like to mention, in particular, electrical and printed circuit boards design as well as mechanical design. Jobs in this environment, such as troubleshooting, require concentration, diving into the flow. Even in a slightly darkened room and with telephone and Outlook switched off. These jobs certainly require contact with customers during presentations and, of course, internal daily scrums. But colleagues can do that. Or people on the autism spectrum themselves, provided coaching! It can very well be about coaching for the highlygifted!

Some applicants initially have disadvantages compared to others. (This can also be the case with introverts.) They are rejected, although they can absolutely perform what is asked. Let’s disregard prejudices for the moment: All too often, the specialist departments name HR requirements that are desirable in principle, but are not particularly specific to the position in question. Ability to work in a team, being open to innovations, contact with customers may serve as examples here. Specific job analyzes are not made!

Attention to detail, systematic working methods and logical analysis when searching for errors and recognizing patterns are primarily in demand in the job groups mentioned, and they are very accommodating for autistic people.

Interviewers in job interviews can definitely ask questions in job interviews. However, they must not insist and pressurize. Rather, they should first find out which form of dialogue is appropriate: email or MS Teams or…? (One of the many occasions when COVID-19 circumstances bring about a “new normal”. Is the personal one-to-one or one-to-two interview really absolutely necessary?)

Conversely, they can present tasks that require such pattern recognition. Or ask for work samples. This is to gain knowledge, but also to give the applicant security in a “home game”.

There is now a proper neurodiversity movement, having started in the USA, but spread since then. This challenges the medical model of autism: autism does, thus, not require “treatment”. Rather, it is an aspect of the person a such, a positive identity, not to be split from it. The fitting wording is people in the autistic spectrum.

This is not purely about wording or even distinction, as from the N-word. But about the desire for insight….