According to the British Medical Bulletin, neurodivergence concerns approximately 15 to 20 percent of the world's population. Despite its prevalence, companies and managers are still in the early stages of understanding and supporting neurodivergent individuals. Experts highlight that embracing neurodiversity in the workplace can provide a competitive advantage for businesses. Neurodivergent individuals possess unique skills, such as pattern recognition, mathematics, creativity and out-of-the-box thinking, which can enhance productivity and innovation within teams. They often offer diverse perspectives, are detail-oriented, bring strong problem-solving skills, and exhibit high concentration levels. They are also known to possess exceptional memory, demonstrate enhanced spatial reasoning, and engage authentically in interactions. Overall, neurodivergent employees contribute to increased workplace resilience.
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A circle of support for the workplace and personal life
Found in 90% of Fortune 500 companies, employee resource groups aim to nurture a sense of belonging, contribute to professional development, and foster a more inclusive company culture. At Orange Business, the bottom-up initiative "Les Z'Atypiques" was founded by Mélodie Ardouin, Head of Global Campaigns, and now enjoys the support of executive sponsor Elizabeth Tchoungui, Executive Director Corporate Social Responsibility, having played a key role in advancing recognition for this topic. This French-speaking global community, soon to be available in English as well, aims to raise awareness, share information and advocate for the benefits of cognitive diversity. Additionally, other employee-led initiatives include monthly online coffees and meetings to support neurodivergent employees, fostering a caring environment.
Learning guides: supporting different learning styles
Orange Group has published a Glossary of Terms and a Neuroteam Manifesto on neurodiversity in the workplace. Orange Business has developed a neurodiversity e-learning to educate all employees on this topic and help managers understand how to hire and support neurodivergent talent. Subsequently, the Group adopted this e-learning. In France, Orange Business has master classes and workshops in the planning to further enhance employee knowledge and understanding of this theme. Moreover, employee advocates also join or organize events to raise awareness.
Adaptive office space and cognitive accessibility options
Creating an inclusive workspace involves adapting physical environments and providing cognitive accessibility options. As much as possible, Orange Business offers quiet rooms, flexible work options, remote working software and equipment, and appropriate furniture and lighting to ensure a comfortable working environment. Available since May, the French "Orange Workplace" design framework emphasizes the importance of considering auditory perception in workspace design, particularly for neurodiverse individuals. The "sound journey" approach won the QVT Observatory prize in June 2023 and includes three sound environments—peaceful, confidential, and dynamic—to cater to different needs and enhance comfort and inclusivity in workspaces.
By implementing and extending such measures, companies can support the well-being and productivity of their neurodivergent employees.
Tailored application process and manager resources
To attract and hire neurodivergent talent, companies should consider tailoring their application processes. Orange Business provides resources for HR and managers on how to effectively manage neurodivergent employees. Helping to understand the unique needs and strengths of neurodivergent individuals contributes to a supportive and inclusive work environment.
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Increasingly broader neurodivergence awareness within Orange Business
Orange Business is committed to raising awareness about neurodiversity both internally and externally. Through educational mailings and social media awareness, the company aims to familiarize people with the topic and promote understanding. Additionally, Orange Business is implementing initiatives and programs to support neurodivergent employees.
Laurent Aufils, Chief People Officer, Orange Business
Conclusion: neurodivergence as a competitive advantage
Research shows that embracing neurodiversity in the workplace can provide companies with a competitive advantage. By creating an inclusive environment, supporting different learning styles, offering adaptive office spaces, and tailoring the application process, businesses can harness the unique skills and perspectives of neurodivergent individuals. Orange Business celebrates and promotes the unique perspectives brought by neurodivergent individuals and supports cognitive diversity and inclusion within its workforce.
Liliana Rodrigues is a strategic communications leader with extensive global experience in public relations, content marketing and brand strategy. She has developed and executed marketing and PR strategies and campaigns for several international brands. Currently, Liliana focuses on building strategic communication programs for key themes such as corporate social responsibility, AI & digital trust, innovation, diversity, equity and inclusion, and talent acquisition.