Member-only story
How to Design an Inclusive Dynamic Workplace Environment that Helps Neurodivergent Employees Succeed
Or, how do you make the workplace neurodiverse-friendly?
At the beginning of this century, one of the hottest trends in office design — at least at dot-coms, where companies all vied to look like they were on the cutting edge of trends — was creating a “loosened up” workplace. Companies wanted to attract younger employees with lots of energy and creativity. So, dress codes were relaxed. Recreation centers were added that offered video game consoles, nap centers, and meditation rooms. Larger companies added perks like a massage studio, kitchens fully stocked with food, and even beer and wine.
I chatted with a friend about the open office plan trend over the past two decades. Sam is neurodivergent, and she recalled that previous design trend with a shudder.
She explained, “The thing is, I never cared about any of those freebies. I liked the updated dress code because it was realistic. But all those extra perks were distractions I could not stand.”
She explained that part of the problem was that many workplaces added those perks as an afterthought. They made the workplace cluttered, noisy, and unpredictable. She said, “If they didn’t implement it correctly—and most companies didn’t—it could be very distressing for people who need structure.”
Sam added, “I once walked out in the middle of a job interview because they insisted on conducting it right next to their indoor skateboard ramp! I’m sure they thought it would make them seem really cool or whatever. But it was this huge, noisy thing right next to my head! I freaked out and just left. The woman leading the interview had to come out to the parking lot and give me my backpack because I’d left it there when I ran out.”
Sadly, similar experiences are common among neurodivergent people in the workforce. They often suffer the most from policies and procedures designed to increase efficiency or general productivity without considering the people doing the work.
