The Hidden Cost of Conformity: How Masking Impacts Workplace Innovation

As a recruitment consultant and business owner, I've seen first-hand the incredible value that neurodivergent employees bring to the workplace.

Their unique perspectives and problem-solving abilities can lead to ground-breaking innovations and fresh approaches to long-standing challenges.

However, many of these talented individuals feel compelled to "mask" their neurodivergence to fit in with workplace norms.

What is masking?

Masking, also known as camouflaging, is the practice of hiding or suppressing natural behaviours, traits, or challenges associated with neurodivergence.

This can include:

• Mimicking neurotypical social interactions

• Suppressing stimming behaviours

• Forcing eye contact despite discomfort

• Hiding special interests or passions

While masking may seem like a way to blend in, it comes at a significant personal cost to neurodivergent employees and can hinder workplace innovation.

The prevalence of neurodiversity in the UK

32% of UK employers say they would be hesitant about hiring a neurodivergent individual

This statistic highlight both the untapped potential and the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in the workplace.

The personal toll of masking

For neurodivergent employees, the constant effort to mask their true selves can be exhausting and detrimental to their well-being. This can lead to:

• Increased stress and anxiety

• Burnout and fatigue

• Decreased job satisfaction

• Lower self-esteem

One neurodivergent professional I worked with described masking as "wearing a suit of armour that gets heavier every day." This emotional and mental strain can significantly impact an employee's ability to perform at their best.

The impact on workplace innovation

When neurodivergent employees feel the need to conform, businesses miss out on the unique perspectives and problem-solving approaches they bring to the table. By encouraging authenticity, companies can:

• Foster a culture of creativity and out-of-the-box thinking

• Benefit from diverse problem-solving approaches

• Improve team dynamics through genuine interactions

• Enhance product development with user-centric insights

I've seen teams transformed when neurodivergent employees feel comfortable sharing their ideas openly. In one case, an autistic software developer's unique approach to data visualisation led to a 30% improvement in user engagement for a client's app.

Creating an inclusive workplace

To harness the full potential of neurodivergent employees and reduce the need for masking, companies can implement several strategies:

1. Provide education and awareness training for all staff

2. Offer flexible work arrangements to accommodate different needs

3. Create sensory-friendly spaces within the office

4. Encourage open communication about accommodations and support

5. Implement clear and direct communication practices

By fostering an environment where neurodivergent employees feel valued for their authentic selves, businesses can unlock a wealth of innovation and creativity.

The role of recruitment in supporting neurodiversity

As a recruitment consultant, I believe we have a crucial role to play in promoting neurodiversity in the workplace:

• Educating clients about the benefits of neurodivergent talent

• Adapting interview processes to be more inclusive

• Helping candidates highlight their unique strengths

• Advocating for workplace accommodations

By focusing on candidates' abilities rather than conformity to neurotypical norms, we can help place neurodivergent individuals in roles where they can truly thrive.

The business case for authenticity

Encouraging neurodivergent employees to bring their authentic selves to work isn't just the right thing to do – it's good for business. Companies that embrace neurodiversity report:

• Increased innovation and problem-solving capabilities

• Improved employee retention and job satisfaction

• Enhanced reputation as an inclusive employer

• Access to a wider talent pool

One UK-based tech company I worked with saw a 25% increase in patent filings after implementing neurodiversity-friendly policies and actively recruiting neurodivergent talent.

As we move towards a more inclusive future, it's crucial that we recognise the hidden costs of conformity and the value of neurodiversity in the workplace.

By creating environments where all employees feel comfortable being themselves, we can unlock some serious levels of innovation, creativity, and productivity.

Let's work together to build workplaces where masking is no longer necessary, and where every individual's unique strengths are celebrated and utilised to their fullest potential.

#DifferentNotLess #EmpoweringDiversity #InclusiveHiring #RecruitInclusively #BeTheChange #Authenticity #LeadFromTheTop

---

I'm Phillipa and I set up Recruit Inclusively because change needs to happen and it needs to happen fast!

I'm on a mission to revolutionise neurodiversity in the UK workforce. Frustrated by the systemic barriers faced by brilliant neurodivergent individuals, I'm determined to transform the status quo and empower businesses to unlock the unique strengths of this often-overlooked talent pool.

Through our comprehensive end-to-end solutions, I help organisations not only find exceptional neurodivergent candidates, but also cultivate inclusive workplaces where they can truly thrive. My unwavering commitment extends far beyond the boardroom, driven by a deep personal passion for making a tangible, positive impact.