Why Neurodiversity has a Place in your Team
Creating Diverse and Inclusive Places to Work
At Xenia Venues, we strongly believe in fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace that embraces neurodivergent individuals. We recognise and appreciate the unique perspectives and talents that neurodivergent employees bring to our organisation. We are committed to creating an environment that celebrates these differences and provides equal opportunities for everyone to thrive. Through awareness programmes and open communication, we strive to build a supportive and understanding community that values neurodiversity as a core strength. By embracing neurodivergence, we aim to create a culture where every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential within our company.
What is Neurodiversity?
Around 1 in 7 people in the UK are considered to be neurodivergent, in that they don’t think in a way that society considers typical or "neurotypical." This can include people with conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia and other cognitive differences. Embracing neurodivergent employees means recognising the diverse skill sets and perspectives they bring to the team. Those with neurodivergent conditions are often more at risk of suffering from mental illnesses, but this is often due to the stress of 'masking' - acting in a neurotypical way in order to avoid negativity. Understanding and supporting the needs of neurodiverse employees will reduce this stress.
By creating a working environment that allows neurodiverse employees to thrive, you’ll offer opportunities for an estimated 15% of the UK population, while also gaining a competitive advantage for your business. The Harvard Business Review highlights a 30% uplift in productivity by employing autistic people over neurotypical, in certain roles.
Harnessing the Power of a (Neuro)Diverse Team
Neurodivergence reflects in each person differently, bringing a variety of skills. For example, in a wedding venue setting, neurodivergent employees can offer unique strengths that contribute to exceptional customer service and event management. Their attention to detail, ability to focus on specific tasks, and keen sense of organisation can be invaluable in ensuring every wedding is flawlessly executed. Their creativity and out-of-the-box thinking can lead to innovative solutions and a unique style.
Creating an inclusive and accommodating environment in your wedding venue will not only empower neurodivergent staff but also enhance the overall experience for couples and their guests. Clear communication methods, structured routines and sensory-friendly spaces, all contribute towards a great event space, and will be appreciated by guests as well as any neurodivergent employees.
Helping EveryIndividual to Shine
In a wedding venue setting, there are several types of neurodivergence that you may encounter among employees. Each type comes with its unique challenges and benefits, which, when recognised and accommodated, can lead to a more inclusive and successful work environment. There is a legal obligation to make reasonable adjustments, but also huge benefits to the employee and the organisation they work for, when employees are given the opportunity to shine, and feel appreciated for their “superpowers”.
To foster an inclusive workplace, simple adjustments may include providing clear and concise communication, allowing for flexible work schedules and creating quiet spaces for retreating and recharging. Most importantly by recognising and assigning tasks that align with every individual's strengths, a wedding venue can harness the unique abilities of each employee, resulting in job satisfaction, a more effective team and high staff retention rates.
Recognising Neurodiversity
For business owners and team leaders, creating a diverse and inclusive team can start with understanding some of the most common presentations of neurodiversity:
Autism Spectrum Disorder (Autism):
Autism is a neurodevelopment disorder characterised by difficulties in social communication and interaction, as well as restricted and repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests, or activities.
Challenges: Individuals with autism may struggle with social interactions and communication, which could potentially affect customer service. They might also be sensitive to sensory stimuli, making loud and crowded event spaces overwhelming.
Superpowers: Employees with autism often exhibit excellent attention to detail and precision, making them well-suited for tasks that require accuracy and consistency. Their dedication to routines and structured work can contribute to consistent and reliable service delivery.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD):
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a neurodevelopment disorder characterised by persistent patterns of inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity that can interfere with daily functioning and development.
Challenges: Employees with ADHD may face difficulties with sustained attention and task organisation, which can impact productivity and time management in some situations.
Superpowers: Individuals with ADHD often possess high energy levels and can excel in fast-paced environments, making them well-suited for handling multiple tasks during busy wedding events. They can also bring creativity and spontaneity to problem-solving situations.
Dyslexia (DYS):
Dyslexia is a specific learning disorder that affects reading, spelling, and writing abilities, often stemming from difficulties understanding individual sounds (phonemes) and language-related skills.
Challenges: Dyslexic employees may encounter challenges in reading, writing, and processing written information, which can affect communication and administrative tasks.
Superpowers: Dyslexic individuals often excel in visual and spatial thinking, which can be advantageous in setting up and arranging wedding venues. Their strong creative skills may contribute to unique and very stylish event decorations.
Dyspraxia (DCD, or Developmental Coordination Disorder):
Dyspraxia is a neurodevelopmental condition that involves difficulties with motor coordination, planning, and execution of movements, impacting various aspects of daily life and activities.
Challenges: Individuals with dyspraxia may find it harder to do tasks involving precise movements, such as carrying multiple plates or serving drinks. They may struggle with time management during busy events, as the sensory overload can impact their performance.
Superpowers: A person with dyspraxia is likely to have adept problem-solving abilities and cope well with unforeseen situations. They often bring valuable attention to detail and a different level of creativity to wedding designs and themes.
Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD, or Social Phobia (SP):
Social Anxiety Disorder is a mental health condition characterised by persistent fear and anxiety in social situations, leading to avoidance of such situations and significant distress in daily life.
Challenges: Employees with social anxiety may find it challenging to interact with large groups of people, which can impact networking and communication with clients and guests.
Superpowers: Individuals with social anxiety disorder may excel in roles that require focused attention to detail, such as organising and coordinating wedding logistics. They may also be highly empathetic, understanding the needs and concerns of colleagues and wedding guests.
Useful Resources
Developments in the workplace are already leading to a more diverse and inclusive workforce. However, there is still room for increased awareness, and embracement of neurodiversity in our society.
There are plenty of useful resources available for employers online, such as these ones for ADHD and Autism, as well as specialist recruitment companies such as Even Break and Exceptional Individuals.
Written by
Alison Hargreaves
Written with advice and supporting information from some of the many talented neurodiverse individuals already demonstrating their superpowers in the wedding industry.
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