Working Differently Isn’t Working Poorly

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects millions of adults, including many who may not realize they have it. In the workplace, ADHD can show up in a variety of ways, from difficulty prioritizing tasks and managing time to challenges with focus or organization. It can also bring strengths, including creativity, problem-solving, adaptability, and innovative thinking.

Whether you have ADHD yourself, supervise employees who do, or simply want to create a more inclusive workplace, understanding how different people work best can benefit everyone.

Practical strategies anyone can use

Many techniques that support employees with ADHD can be helpful for all employees:

  • Break large projects into smaller steps.
  • Use visual reminders and task lists.
  • Schedule focused work time.
  • Establish clear priorities and deadlines.
  • Reduce unnecessary distractions during concentration-heavy work.

Creating a culture of support

Supporting neurodiversity is not about providing special treatment. It’s about recognizing that people process information, organize work, and stay engaged in different ways. Small adjustments can help employees do their best work while contributing their unique strengths to the university community.

Want to learn more? Explore available resources in Percipio and take time this month to reflect on how different approaches to work can benefit individuals and teams alike.

Content credit: Carey Musburger, Sr. Assistant, HRS Learning and Organizational Development

Illustration of two people, one at a desk, the other on a computer screen talking to each other.

Contact & Quick Links

Have a question about info in this post?

  • Visit the HRS Service Teams page and login with your WSU credentials to find the HR Consultant that supports your area.
  • For general HR related questions, email HRS at hrs@wsu.edu.

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