Breaking Barriers, Building Brilliance: The Business Advantage of Embracing Neurodiversity in the Workforce

23
Oct 2023
CPHR Alberta
330
A colorful brain made of puzzle pieces on a blue background.

Author : Svetlana Miftahov-Rapoport, Med, CPHR

In the ever-evolving world of work, we're all about shaking things up and embracing what makes us unique. So, it's time to turn up the volume of a conversation that's been a game-changer for some of the most innovative companies out there. As we strive to build inclusive workplaces, it's crucial to expand our views beyond traditional ideas of diversity, welcoming the richness that lies in the minds of all kinds. I want to invite you to explore why embracing neurodiversity in the workplace is not just good for people—it's fantastic for business, too! And before you think, “My plate is full; I can’t add one more topic to my to-do list,” just hear me out. I am here to help you make your life easier, your business more successful, and your organization more inclusive. Isn’t it a win-win situation? So, grab a comfy seat, and let's get real about the game-changing brilliance that comes with a neurodivergent team. 

In today's world, there is a general lack of societal awareness about neurodiversity. Sadly, this lack of awareness results in a lose-lose scenario. Many organizations miss out on exceptional talent—remarkable individuals who aren't given the opportunity to thrive simply because these organizations struggle to recognize, accept, and appreciate the unique ways people think. While the global talent competition is rising and we struggle to find the right people with the right skills for our companies, unemployment rates for neurodivergent adults reach as high as 30-40%. 1   While we desperately seek ways to retain our top talent, the most innovative companies, such as Microsoft, SAP, JPMorgan, and EY, report that their neurodivergent hiring programs have retention rates above 90%. 2   

So, what are we missing? We all dream of finding talented, loyal professionals for our organizations, while there are thousands of talented, loyal professionals who are struggling to find meaningful employment only because they are neurodivergent. More than that, experts say that up to 25% of the adult population is neurodivergent (have autism, dyslexia, ADHD, dyspraxia). This means that on your team, in a group of 100 employees, 25 are neurodivergent, and these people might be facing barriers to meaningful work experiences. Most of them won’t even disclose the fact they are neurodivergent due to an existing social stigma. So, they suffer in silence while there is a lack of understanding and needed accommodation that would set them up for success. It's time for a change! And you, an HR Professional, have the superpower to lead this change by tapping into the future of work, where you are not just breaking barriers but building brilliance. 

Unfortunately, most of today’s workplaces are set up for neurotypical ways of thinking and doing. However, organizations such as Microsoft, EY, IBM, and others have proven that investing in hiring and optimizing for neurodiverse professionals contributes to a lower turnover, higher productivity, and improved engagement among all employees. 3   So how do we do it? Building a workplace that champions neurodivergent employees and cultivates overall success involves a multifaceted approach. First and foremost, raising awareness and fostering education within the organization are pivotal steps. And here, we must start at the top. Leadership buy-in is critical to success in this process. So, we must create a compelling business and social case first. Offering training programs that sensitize employees and managers to the unique strengths and challenges of neurodivergent colleagues will not only promote an understanding of neurodiversity and dispel misconceptions but will also help employees develop a more inclusive mindset. Once we have created a strong foundation of awareness and leadership support, we will move to the next crucial step of revising our DEI strategy and adjusting Human Resources practices. Tailoring recruitment, selection, onboarding processes, and workplace accommodations to better suit the needs of neurodivergent individuals not only ensures a fair playing field but also maximizes their contributions. And this journey doesn't end with awareness and adjustments-ongoing support is the linchpin. Establishing a network for neurodivergent employees, providing mentorship opportunities, and fostering open communication channels will help to create an environment where everyone feels valued. 

Picture this: your team is not just diverse but neurodiverse, tapping into a wellspring of unique skills that redefine success. When we put awareness in the spotlight, adjust our HR practices, and provide ongoing support, not only will we achieve inclusive excellence and embrace neurodivergent talent, but we will redefine success and maximize the productivity of the whole company. Imagine a workplace that's pro at giving everyone their moment in the spotlight, and that's the kind of success that resonates loud and clear. Let's do this!

Sources

1 Werth Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation. "The Center for Neurodiversity and Employment." UConn Today, University of Connecticut,  https://werth.uconn.edu/centers/neurodiversity/

2  "Corporate Neurodiversity Hiring Programs: Scratching the Surface?" Autism Spectrum News, https://autismspectrumnews.org/corporate-neurodiversity-hiring-programs-scratching-the-surface/

3 "Neurodiversity Employment Services | Potentia Workforce." Potentia Workforce, https://www.potentiaworkforce.org/

The views and opinions expressed in this blog post belong solely to the original author(s) and do not necessarily represent the views and opinions of CPHR Alberta.

The views and opinions expressed in this blog post belong solely to the original author(s) and do not necessarily represent the views and opinions of CPHR Alberta.



Reminder to cast your vote for the next CPHR Alberta Board of Directors

March 5, 2026
Your current CPHR Alberta Board of Directors selected a slate of two (2) strong candidates to fill the current Board vacancies from a talented pool of applicants. The nomination process began in late 2025 with a call for applicants. The applications period ended on January 9, 2026. The responsibility of reviewing all applications sits with the Human Resources Committee of the Board. All applicants were reviewed in full, and based on the established selection criteria, a short-list was identified and interviewed. Following interviews a proposed slate was developed and presented to the Board, with the final slate generated for your consideration. The 2026 slate of Directors are Adediwura (Wura) Odiase and Terri Davis. These applicants reflect the skills, experience, and qualifications to supplement the existing Board of Directors and to guide the association into the future and to serve you, the members. 2026 Slate: Adediwura (Wura) Odiase - Click here to watch Wura's introduction video. Terri Davis - Click here to watch Terri's introduction video. Read more about our 2026 slate of directors here. How to Vote Only Chartered and Retired members can vote. Open the email you receive from CPHR Alberta via Simply Voting , read the bios, and vote yes or no to the slate. The voting website is available from March 2, at 1 PM MST until March 13, at 12 PM MST. The Simply Voting email contains your elector ID and password, which is needed for you to cast your ballot. If you do not see an email from CPHR Alberta via Simply Voting ( vote@simplyvoting.com ), please check your junk mail and spam filters. If you experience any technical difficulties in accessing the voting website, please email Heather McMaster at for assistance. On behalf of the CPHR Alberta Board of Directors, thank you in advance for your participation in the 2026 CPHR Alberta Board of Directors Election. We look forward to seeing you online for our Annual General Meeting on May 7. Registration will open in April, watch your email for more details.

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By Jessica Jaithoo • March 4, 2026
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Celebrating Our CPHR Alberta 2025 Scholarship Winners

By Jessica Jaithoo • February 19, 2026
We’re excited to congratulate the CPHR Alberta 2025’s scholarship recipients! Each year, these awards help us recognize emerging HR talent and support students who are taking meaningful steps toward their future in the profession. CPHR Alberta scholarships play an important role in easing financial barriers, celebrating academic achievement, and connecting students with the professional community that will support them as they work toward earning the CPHR designation. Below, meet this year’s outstanding recipients. CPHR Alberta’s Eldon Emerson Scholarship: Undergraduate Award Created in 2021, the Eldon Emerson Scholarship honours Eldon’s exceptional leadership, contribution, and passion for the HR profession. Eldon received the Fellowship Award in 2013—one of the highest honours in our community, recognizing exemplary service and impact. 2025 Eldon Emerson Award Winner Chine Rajafa CPHR Alberta’s Diploma Scholarship: Undergraduate Award Launched in 2023, the Diploma Scholarship supports student members enrolled in a 2‑year HR diploma program. Recipients show strong academic performance, community involvement, and a clear commitment to the HR profession and the CPHR designation pathway. 2025 Diploma Scholarship Award Winner Mehar Kaur Follow Their Journey We encourage you to connect with Chinenye and Mehar on LinkedIn and support them as they begin their HR careers. A simple follow, message, or connection can go a long way for emerging professionals. Watch for 2026 Scholarship Dates The next intake period for CPHR Alberta’s Scholarship Program opens Fall 2026. Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for updates. Become a Student Member Whether you're studying in an accredited HR program or building your skills through part‑time, continuing education, or bridging programs, CPHR Alberta has a student membership option designed to support your path into the profession. Joining as a student member gives you access to resources, events, and a community that can help you take your next step with confidence. Learn more and join
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