Getting Hired recently teamed up with Understood for a webinar to provide recruiters and hiring managers with best practices in attracting, hiring and retaining individuals with learning and attention issues in the workplace.
The event defined the scope of learning and attention issues as well as how it impacts these individuals within the workplace.
What are learning and attention issues?
Understood shared how one in five individuals struggle with brain-based learning and attention issues that impact reading, writing, math, organization and focus. These learning and attention issues can include but are not limited to:
· ADHD: trouble with focus, impulse control and executive functioning
· Dyslexia: trouble with reading
· Executive functioning issues: “the CEO of the brain”
· Dyscalculia: trouble with math
· Dysgraphia: trouble with writing
· Dyspraxia: trouble with motor coordination
· Non-verbal learning disabilities: trouble with non-verbal social cues and spatial skills
· Auditory processing disorder: trouble processing sound
· Sensory processing issues: trouble accurately interpreting sensations
· Visual processing issues: trouble processing what is seen
What are common misconceptions about learning and attention issues?
Understood dispelled some of the most common myths about learning and attention issues:
· Myth #1: Learning and attention issues are linked to IQ.
· Fact #1: Individuals with learning and attention issues are just as smart as everyone else.
· Myth #2: Vaccinations can cause learning and attention issues.
· Fact #2: There is no scientific evidence linking vaccinations to learning and attention issues.
· Myth #3: Individuals with learning and attention issues can’t have successful careers.
· Fact #3: With the right support and intervention, individuals with these issues can thrive in school and at work.
· Myth #4: Watching too much TV can cause learning and attention issues.
· Fact #4: These are brain-based issues. There is no scientific evidence linking the number of hours spent watching TV to learning and attention issues.
To learn the full list of myths and facts about learning and attention issues, here’s the playback to the webinar.
Supporting employees who may have learning or attention issues
It’s imperative that inclusive employers never assume someone has a disability and are simply aware that the below common business practices can help with ALL employees.
· Set clear expectations.
· Ask questions and check for understanding.
· Provide written instructions — a hallway conversation isn’t enough.
· Ask employees if they need any resources to do their jobs.
· Let employees know you’re available to address issues and concerns.
Watch the full webinar to learn all of the best practices when recruiting individuals with learning and attention issues here: