Thriving as a Neurodivergent Employee

During the expert session, Martha engages the audience through a Q&A session, live demonstrations of coping strategies, and interactive exercises using the Mentimeter app. She shares practical tips for neurodivergent individuals to manage their workload, communicate effectively, and advocate for themselves. Martha also discusses the importance of recognizing and challenging biases in the hiring process and creating an inclusive workplace. The session concludes with a survey for feedback, leaving the audience feeling informed and supported.

* Recognizing and Understanding Neurodivergence: Gain insights into neurodivergent conditions such as ADHD and autism by considering a diagnosis if suspected. Understanding your abilities and needs can lead to effective management and accommodations in the workplace.

* Coping with Overwhelm at Work: Identify manageable tasks and avoid tackling disliked tasks on demanding days to help alleviate feelings of overwhelm. Consider seeking support or accommodation to maintain focus and productivity.

* Advocating for Yourself and Others: Be open to recognizing neurodivergent behaviors in potential candidates during the hiring process, and challenge biases when assessing their performance. Communicate effectively with your employer about accommodations and set boundaries to avoid burnout and promote self-compassion.

In this expert session, Martha shares valuable insights into thriving as an employee, specifically focusing on the unique challenges faced by individuals with neurodivergent conditions such as ADHD. She begins by emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and understanding one's own brain function. Martha encourages creating lists of strengths and needs, advocating for oneself based on this self-understanding, and identifying tasks that bring enjoyment or "flow."

Moreover, Martha discusses the concept of neurodivergent masking, which involves hiding certain aspects of oneself to fit in with neurotypical expectations. She shares a personal story about experiencing burnout and the importance of being honest about one's struggles. To help neurodivergent individuals be more effective at work, Martha recommends having a reliable system for organizing tasks, asking for help when needed, taking breaks or building in buffers between tasks, designing your day around your interests rather than willpower, and experimenting with different methods to find what works best for you.

Martha emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries and communicating effectively with others about your needs. She acknowledges that neurodivergent burnout is real and planning an exit if necessary. Martha also encourages flexibility and understanding that your needs may change over time.

ADHD in Women & Girls

In this session, Martha—who has both ADHD and autism—shares her personal experiences and highlights the challenges neurodivergent individuals face, especially women, who are often underdiagnosed and overlooked. She emphasizes the importance of awareness, self-compassion, and acceptance. Traits like impulsivity or strong will can impact work both positively and negatively, depending on the context. Martha advocates for workplace accommodations such as quiet spaces, flexible schedules, and clear communication. Her insights underline the value neurodivergent individuals bring through their unique perspectives and creativity, and the need for more inclusive, supportive work environments.

 

 

Neurodivergence in the Workplace

In this session, Martha Neurodiversity highlights the value of recognizing and supporting neurodivergent individuals in the workplace. She explains that signs like trouble with focus, organization, or social cues may suggest neurodivergence—but they don’t define a person’s ability or worth. Martha emphasizes that neurodivergent people, who make up around 15% of the population, bring unique strengths and perspectives. She urges employers to challenge biases, avoid stereotypes, and promote inclusion through understanding and open communication. Creating a more inclusive workplace not only supports neurodivergent employees but also drives innovation, productivity, and overall success.