What’s the best way to develop your knowledge as a manager? Some of us favour the interaction of group training, where experiences are shared. Others like the focus of 1:1 coaching, where specific workplace issues can be addressed. However, in this article, I explore why e-learning works for everyone, particularly neurodivergent managers.

Are There Many Neurodivergent Managers?

Founding a business is a popular option for neurodivergent individuals. It offers a way to apply your talents and avoid the recruitment barriers that lead to under-representation in the workplace. You may be surprised to know that around a quarter of all entrepreneurs are neurodivergent*.

In the recently published Neurodivergent Entrepreneurship in the UK report** by the Lilac Centre, 76% of neurodivergent founders chose to be their own boss in order to work in a way that suits them. A staggering 64% viewed being a founder as the only option for earning a living.

“I’ve applied for hundreds, thousands of jobs. Despite having a high IQ and a Masters in psychology, employment just isn’t a path that seems to be open to me. That is why entrepreneurship matters for so many neurodivergent people: it can become the route we take when conventional employment systems fail to recognise, accommodate or make proper use of our abilities.”

— Robert Annis, Co-Founder & Organisational Psychologist, NEURO

The best-known example of a neurodivergent manager is Richard Branson, founder of Virgin. However, he is far from the only example. Having been involved in the launch of Neurodivergent Founders Circle events, I’m seeing leaders with the skills and focus to drive business success on their terms.

Workplace Barriers for Neurodivergent Individuals

Over 15% of the population has ADHD, dyslexia, autism, dyscalculia, dysgraphia or dyspraxia. Rather than a disadvantage, these neuro differences provide unique ways of processing information and understanding the world. This fresh perspective is invaluable in solving workplace challenges, spotting patterns and irregularities, and developing new approaches.

However, recruitment processes typically focus on form-filling, personal interactions, and group activities. These are barriers that exclude before giving a fair opportunity to showcase talents. So, the solution is to start your own business and use your skills to disrupt the competition.

Unfortunately, the challenges don’t end when you become a founder. The Lilac Centre report highlights a lack of neurodivergent-aware business support. This included inaccessible finance pathways, along with insufficient mentoring and development opportunities that take into account specific needs. If you are facing barriers to gaining new skills, e-learning could provide an effective and affordable solution.

Why e-learning Works for Neurodivergent Managers

I have mentored leaders with neurodivergence, tailoring the sessions to suit their approach. However, I’m aware that for many, online training is a preferred option for continuous development.

Here are 6 reasons why e-learning can help you to keep pace with industry regulations, understand employee and consumer rights, and address specific business challenges:

Maximum control over the environment – rather than heading to an unfamiliar venue or having to join training at a specific time, you choose how and when you engage.
Fewer distractions – your choice about screen brightness and volume of the sound, along with the option to access training when no one else is around, minimises the noise.
Focus on what’s relevant – training modules can be selected to best suit your priorities, providing a tailored option.
Logical steps – you can see what’s included, so you know what’s next and your progress. What’s more, there are often summaries at the end of each section, which aid learning.
Work at your pace – in some sections, you may need to pause and replay information until it makes sense. In others, you speed through.
No fear of being put on the spot – it’s hard to concentrate on learning when you are anticipating being asked a question, or requested to engage in a group task. There is no risk of this with e-learning.

Do any of these resonate with you?

CPD Accredited e-learning

If online learning appeals to you, I’ve compiled a selection of accessible, affordable modules to support good working practices. There are over 150 options, categorised into Business Skills, Compliance and Health & Safety.

These modules provide bite-sized, CPD-accredited online courses on topics including Lone Working, Conflict Resolution, Time Management, and Cyber Security. I’ve included a small selection on my website. However, if there is a topic of interest, email me, and I’ll reply with details of all relevant options.

It’s time to break down the barriers and enable neurodivergent talents to shine. Contact me to discuss how I can help your organisation become neuro-inclusive.

* https://startupawards.uk/news/the-neurodivergent-edge-in-uk-entrepreneurship

** https://labs.uk.barclays/media/ryplkfto/neurodiverse-founders.pdf