An inclusive employer doesn’t just talk about diversity — they put it into action. They recognise that every worker is different, and that this diversity is a strength. But inclusion isn’t just a buzzword or a policy tucked away on a shelf. It’s something that’s lived and felt across a workplace, in big decisions and in everyday practices.
So, what does a truly inclusive employer look like?
They recruit fairly
Inclusive employers make sure their recruitment processes don’t unfairly filter out neurodivergent people. This might mean offering clear, simple job descriptions focused on what really matters in the role, not unnecessary criteria that put good candidates off. It could mean providing interview questions in advance or offering alternatives to traditional interviews, like work trials or practical tasks.
An inclusive employer understands that good recruitment is about finding the right person for the job and not about testing who can navigate often outdated hiring processes.
They offer flexible working
A one-size-fits-all approach to working hours, locations or patterns doesn’t work for everyone. Inclusive employers are open to flexible working, whether that’s adjusted start times, home working options, or part-time patterns that fit people’s needs.
For example, an autistic colleague might find that starting work later in the morning helps manage anxiety linked to busy commuting times. Someone with ADHD might thrive when they can take short, regular breaks to reset focus.
These aren’t “extras”, they’re ways of unlocking people’s full potential.