Texthelp at Disability:IN: Insights for Building Inclusive Workplaces
Texthelp recently attended the Disability:IN conference and expo in Las Vegas, a leading global corporate event focused on advancing disability and neurodiversity inclusion in the workplace. This three-day gathering brought together industry leaders, advocates and change-makers to share insights, best practices and inspiring stories.
Chris Grous, Inclusive Technology Specialist, and Cathy Donnelly, Chief People Officer at Texthelp both took part in two insightful sessions about advancing disability and neurodiversity inclusion in the workplace. Below, we dive into the key insights, strategies and best practices shared from the event.
Talent Isn’t Typical: Unlocking Potential and Building Inclusive Workplaces
This panel discussion, moderated by Anthony Pacilio, Vice President Neurodiverse Solutions at CAI focused on the increasing importance of neurodiversity in the workplace. Panelists from leading organizations such as SAP, EY, UnitedHealth and Texthelp shared strategies for unlocking potential and how organizations can adapt their practices to accommodate the neurodiverse workforce and to leverage the competitive edge of neurodiversity. Some insights shared include:
- Hiren Shukla, Global Neurodiversity & Inclusive Value Leader at EY: Emphasized the need to redefine talent to encompass neurodiversity. EY’s focus on creating neuroinclusive cultures involves targeted recruitment strategies, neurodiversity awareness training and flexible work arrangements to accommodate the diverse needs of neurodivergent employees.
- Sarah Loucks, Autism at Work Global Lead at SAP: Shared practical strategies for fostering inclusive cultures, including the use of working styles profiles to help employees understand their preferences and communication styles and leveraging employee resource groups (ERGs) to provide support, networking and advocacy opportunities for neurodivergent employees.
- Amy Root, Director of Strategic Initiatives Optum Technology at UnitedHealth Group: Highlighted the importance of focusing on individual strengths and creating environments where neurodivergent employees can thrive. She emphasized the need for organizations to measure the impact of inclusion initiatives to demonstrate the business case for neurodiversity.
- Chris Grous, Inclusive Technology Specialist at Texthelp: Advocated for the transformative power of inclusive technology in creating more accessible workplaces. Texthelp’s Read&Write tool offers a range of features to support individuals with different learning styles and cognitive abilities.
Focus areas for neurodiversity inclusion:
- Redefining Talent: Organizations must broaden their definition of talent to include neurodivergent individuals and recognize the unique skills and perspectives they bring.
- Building Inclusive Cultures: Fostering a culture of inclusivity where neurodivergent employees feel valued, supported and empowered to contribute their best.
- Leveraging Technology: Utilizing inclusive technology to create more accessible and inclusive workplaces.
- Measuring Impact: Tracking key metrics to assess the impact of inclusion initiatives and demonstrate the business case for neurodiversity.
Turning Insights into Action: Activating Disability Inclusion Post Conference
The closing plenary brought together a distinguished panel of leaders to discuss strategies for translating insights into actionable steps for disability inclusion. Moderated by Scott Hoesman, CEO at inQuest Consulting, the session featured insights from organizations such as Bender Consulting Services, Uber, Disability:IN, Boston Consulting Group, Merck, Texthelp, Voya Financial and Northrop Grumman Corporation.
The path forward for disability inclusion:
- Leadership Commitment: Several leaders emphasized the crucial role of executive sponsorship in driving disability inclusion initiatives. Heather Lavallee from Voya Financial highlighted the importance of leaders serving as role models and allocating resources to support inclusion efforts.
- Data-Driven Approach: Brad Loftus from Boston Consulting Group underscored the need for data to inform decision-making and measure progress. By tracking key metrics, organizations can identify areas for improvement and demonstrate the business case for inclusion.
- Employee Wellbeing: The importance of prioritizing mental health and creating supportive work environments was emphasized by multiple speakers. This includes offering flexible work arrangements, access to mental health resources and creating inclusive cultures.
- Accessibility and Technology: Cathy Donnelly from Texthelp highlighted the transformative role of technology in creating accessible workplaces. Investing in inclusive technology and digital accessibility can significantly improve the experience of employees with disabilities.
- Employee Resource Groups (ERGs): Celeste Warren from Merck emphasized the power of ERGs in driving change from within. These groups provide a platform for employees with disabilities to connect, share experiences and advocate for their needs.
- Mentorship and Sponsorship: Joyce Bender from Bender Consulting Services highlighted the importance of mentorship and sponsorship programs in advancing the careers of individuals with disabilities. Providing opportunities for career development and advancement is crucial for fostering inclusion.
Statistics shared at the event:
- 15-20% of the population is neurodivergent (1 in 5)
- By 2050, 50% of people could be considered neurodiverse
- 53% of Gen Z identify as neurodivergent
- Gen Z and millennials 38% of the global workforce, which is predicted to rise to about 58% by 2030
- 80% of people acquire a disability during their working age
- People with a disability are x2 more likely to be unemployed
- Companies who champion inclusion can benefit from 28% higher revenues, double their net income and around 30% higher profit margins
- 76% of people with a disability or neurodiverse condition do not fully disclose this at work
Want to advance disability & neurodiversity inclusion in your organization?
Explore this free whitepaper by Texthelp and Disability:IN to build the business case for creating a truly inclusive workplace for all!