Workplace Needs Assessments: The Key to Empowering Neurodivergent Talent
The changing world requires a transformative approach. People who experience the world differently, see things differently, and think differently. Diverse, stronger, and more innovative teams who bring unique perspectives to problem-solve, bring creative thinking and different ideas to the table - Enabling you as an organisation to bring innovative solutions to market for your clients, to out-think and out-perform your competitors, and ultimately elevate your business success.
At Lexxic, we partner with organisations around the globe to provide neurodiversity support services; including neurodiversity diagnostics, assessments and Workplace Needs Assessments (WPAs). These one-to-one support services in particular, are designed to help individuals on their own neurodiversity journey so they can better understand their strengths and challenges, and have a clearer understanding of what adjustments they may need in the workplace to thrive in the work they do.
One particular service that we’re seeing an increasing demand for, is our Workplace Needs Assessments (WPAs).
The Benefits of a Workplace Needs Assessment
A Workplace Needs Assessment explores an individual’s current responsibilities at work, whilst identifying strengths and any challenges that they experience within their role. Off the back of a WPA, employees are provided with tailored recommendations for workplace adjustments and support that they, along with their employer, can discuss implementing to support them at work.
A WPA is a personalised approach that helps your employees to perform tasks more effectively, reducing stress and enhancing their overall wellbeing. By addressing individual requirements, the assessment promotes an inclusive work environment where neurodivergent employees can leverage their unique strengths, ultimately boosting their productivity and job satisfaction. This not only benefits the employee, but also contributes to a more diverse, resilient and innovative workplace.
Further down in this post, we’ll be taking a look at the benefits of investing in neurodiversity overall, and why you should be supporting your neurodivergent employees. But let’s delve a little deeper into the practicalities around our WPAs…
What to Expect During a WPA
The assessment typically takes between 1.5 and 2.5 hours and includes input from the employee's line manager or HR representative to gain a wider understanding of their role and working environment. This input can be gathered through a short meeting or a questionnaire.
During the assessment, an assessor will review the individual's current job role, strengths and challenges, and discuss examples in each area to further understand the impact this has on the individual within their role. The goal is to create a comprehensive report that includes background information, strengths, challenges, and tailored recommendations for workplace adjustments and support.
These recommendations might include coaching, assistive technology, strategies for overcoming specific challenges, and resources for both the employee and their line manager. The final report is a collaborative tool that can be discussed with the individual and their line manager or HR representative to agree on next steps and implementing any recommended adjustments.
We’d love to discuss our Workplace Needs Assessments with you further during a quick call with a member of our team, please feel free to click below to book in a chat with us!
Now, let’s look at ‘why’ you should be investing in neurodiversity…
Why Invest in Neurodiversity?
Investing in neurodiversity is not just a moral or legal imperative; it's a strategic business decision. At least 1 in 7 people are estimated to be neurodivergent, representing a significant portion of your workforce. Creating an inclusive culture where all employees are understood and valued can lead to increased talent acquisition, engagement, loyalty, and much more.
Neurodivergent individuals often possess critical strengths such as;
Creativity
Innovation
Attention to detail
Problem-solving skills
Unique perspectives
…and many more!
Organisations like EY, Microsoft, GCHQ, Goldman Sachs, and JP Morgan Chase have already recognised these benefits. For instance, neurodivergent employees in JP Morgan Chase's Autism at Work program were found to be 90% to 140% more productive than their neurotypical peers.
By empowering neurodivergent employees and removing barriers to their success, organisations can see increased productivity, revenue, retention, and reputation. Neuro-inclusive workplaces can also address skill shortages and ensure they have the talent needed for future challenges.
Why Organisations Should Support Neurodivergent Employees
Supporting neurodivergent employees through services like Workplace Needs Assessments has a profound impact on their performance and wellbeing. An impact study at a leading bank revealed that:
90% of HR professionals reported improved employee performance.
91% of managers saw an increase in employee confidence.
93% of employees felt more comfortable disclosing their neurodivergence.
94% of employees were likely to stay with the organisation for the next two years.
These outcomes demonstrate that tailored support not only enhances individual performance but also contributes to employee retention and overall organisational success.
The effectiveness of Lexxic's services is also evident in personal stories from clients. For example, Laura, a client who received a diagnosis and support from Lexxic, shared:
"My diagnosis and the support I received from Lexxic has helped me transform my working life. My line manager and team noticed immediate benefits. With the mind mapping software and strategies I learned, I have started to work more closely with my team and feel more confident in my role. Knowing my team understands dyslexia makes me more comfortable asking for support when needed."
Empowering neurodiversity with Lexxic
The demand for Lexxic's services has increased significantly, with a 550% rise over the past four years. In the past 12 months, Lexxic have supported more than 4,970 neurodivergent individuals through assessment and coaching services around the world. Our clients consistently praise the quality and professionalism of our services, as well as the quick turnaround times for assessments, which are crucial given the lengthy waiting times for diagnoses through public healthcare systems.
By partnering with Lexxic, organisations can provide the support necessary for their neurodivergent employees to thrive. Our expert-led, in-depth tailored assessments and follow-on services, including coaching and e-learning, empower individuals to understand their own unique cognitive strengths and challenges. This personalised approach helps employees to overcome specific workplace obstacles, leading to improved performance, self-confidence and self-awareness and also aiding in career progression.
Investing in neurodiversity through Lexxic not only enhances the working lives of neurodivergent employees but also enriches the organisational culture, driving greater innovation, productivity, and employee satisfaction.
Together, we can create a more inclusive and productive workplace where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
For more information about our services or to get started, get in touch with us here.