Is Your Startup Team Missing a Unique Perspective?
Build a startup where everyone has a seat at the table.
Up to one in five people globally are classified as neurodivergent. This means their brains process information and experience the world differently than the neurotypical majority. In India, that translates to a massive talent pool with unique strengths and perspectives – a pool that many startups are missing out on entirely. Conditions like ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and dyspraxia can present challenges, but they also come bundled with unique strengths – strengths that are perfectly suited for the fast-paced, innovation-driven world of startups.
But here's the challenge: unconscious bias and a lack of understanding about neurodiversity often create barriers to hiring and can stifle a thriving work environment for everyone.
This Neurodiversity Pride Week holds a special significance for India. For the first time ever, the country is joining the global celebrations, recognising the immense potential of its neurodiverse population. This is a chance for startups to bridge the gap, and unlock the true potential of India's diverse workforce. MetaMorph is launching India's Only Startup Inclusivity Survey - to understand the state of inclusion in the ecosystem and help startups make their hiring more inclusive.
Understanding Neurodiversity: A Spectrum of Strengths
Neurodiversity refers to the natural variation in human brain function and how individuals process information and interact with the world. It's not a disability, but rather a spectrum of strengths and challenges.
Understanding neurodiversity is just the first step. To truly create a more inclusive ecosystem, we need actionable data. That's why we at MetaMorph have launched India's Only Startup Inclusivity Survey.
Why Neurodiversity is Your Startup's Superpower
Startups thrive on fresh ideas and innovative solutions. Here's how a neurodiverse team can give your startup a competitive edge:
Innovation Powerhouse: Neurodivergent individuals often excel at thinking outside the box. Their unique perspectives can lead to groundbreaking ideas and creative approaches to problems.
Problem-Solving Prowess: Many neurodivergent conditions come with exceptional analytical and detail-oriented thinking. This translates to a team that can dissect challenges from multiple angles and develop effective solutions.
Diversity of Thought: A neurodiverse team brings a wider range of experiences and viewpoints to the table. This fosters richer discussions, leading to more comprehensive and well-rounded decision-making.
Focus and Persistence: Certain neurodivergent conditions can lead to exceptional focus and a relentless pursuit of a goal. This can be invaluable for startups working on complex projects with tight deadlines.
By embracing neurodiversity, you're not just building a more inclusive workplace, you're unlocking a wellspring of talent and innovation that can propel your startup to success.
Bridging the Gap: Understanding Neurodiverse Needs
At MetaMorph, we understand that building a truly inclusive startup environment requires recognising the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent team members. Here are some common hurdles Neurodiverse employees might face the fast-paced world of Startups:
Remember, these are just a few examples. By having open conversations with your team and being receptive to individual needs, you can create a work environment where everyone thrives. It's about fostering a spirit of collaboration and understanding – a core value for any successful startup seeking to unlock the full potential of its diverse workforce.
Building a world where everyone has a seat at the table
Midhun Noble, founder of Insighte and a neurodivergent entrepreneur with ADHD, shares, "It's not about changing the person, it's about changing the environment." We sat down with him for an insightful chat to understand how exactly startups can create supportive environments that allow neurodiverse individuals to thrive. This is his story.
Why did you start-up Insighte? What has your journey been building Insighte over the past few years?
"For the longest time, I grew up struggling in class without knowing why. Turns out, it wasn't me, it was the system. I got diagnosed with ADHD during my Undergrad but was too hesitant to label myself.
But I kept seeing countless children left behind. You know, like in schools they start getting kicked out when they reach middle school for ‘behavioural issues’. So I thought why not set up an alternative learning space for them? We wanted to support them in schools, and that's how Insighte started. With Insighte, we became a bridge for neurodivergent kids in mainstream schools — with shadow teachers, special educators and other resources.”
Midhun, you mentioned helping neurodivergent adults find jobs. Can you tell us about your past experiences in this area? Specifically, what challenges did the individuals you assisted face, and were there any difficulties from the organisations themselves?
“Traditionally, support for employment opportunities for people with disabilities often focused on specific, limited roles. This approach wasn't ideal for neurodivergent individuals who possess unique skills and perspectives.
Our philosophy emphasises finding employment that aligns with an individual's strengths, interests, and long-term goals. We take a personalised approach. For example, we had an artist who excelled at creating art but was underpaid. We discovered his passion for coffee and trained him as a barista. He now thrives in a role that allows him to express his creativity through coffee art and connect with people.
Another example is someone who graduated with a psychology degree. We're currently helping them define their ideal career path. Our process involves a ‘discovery phase’ to understand their interests and a trial period to explore different areas. This personalised approach equips individuals with transferable skills they can utilise in various roles.”
Could you share key practices a hiring manager or recruiter can follow when considering neurodivergent candidates?
“When it comes to hiring a neurodiverse individual, I have noticed a lot of bias creeping in during disclosure. But the real key is post-hiring practices. It is about understanding what works for each person. Maybe they need a quiet space or different work hours. We want neurodiverse folks to find jobs that are customised for them - not them having to adjust and compromise for a job.”
Midhun’s journey with ADHD is a reflection of millions of neurodivergent folks in India, each with a story of their own. To give a platform to more unheard voices like this is exactly why we have launched India’s Only Startup Inclusivity Survey, to understand the current state of inclusion in the ecosystem.
Don’t leave us yet!
MetaMorph isn't your typical HR firm. We're a 360° HR Advisory firm dedicated to helping startups scale, evolve, and grow. We’ve helped more than 220 startups and multiple hires (and counting), providing them with the platform and opportunities they deserve.
We look forward to bringing you more exciting initiatives aimed at building a stronger and more inclusive tech ecosystem. Stay tuned for future events and updates through our newsletter and by following us on social media.
Thank you for being a part of the MetaMorph journey!