- Camille Johnson
Pursuing Leadership Roles as a Neurodivergent Professional
Updated: Apr 15

When it comes to business, we all deserve the chance to succeed, regardless of our background, status, or disability. As a neurodivergent person looking to find a leadership role, you should know that there are many different strategies that you can try to help achieve your leadership goals.
Start With Remote Learning
Whether you hope to find a leadership position within your own company or in a completely different business altogether, it is a good idea to learn the ropes and the specifics of your industry. We all deserve a chance to learn, and if you need more time and you still need to work to make ends meet, then you should consider remote learning at an online college.
These days, the quality of online programs is the same as that at brick-and-mortar universities, so if you don’t feel comfortable going to a physical location or you just don’t have the time, then you can go online and take the courses at your own pace and study on nights and weekends if necessary. Some degree programs span just about every industry, from finance and psychology to criminal justice. Having a degree will give you a leg-up when it comes time to apply for a leadership position.
Finding Employment
Once you have earned your degree, you can start to work in your new field with an eye toward leadership. You can either go through the traditional route of finding jobs online, applying, and then interviewing or you can use some of the assistance programs that are available, such as the Foundations for Divergent Minds or you can look at the many programs offered by the Office of Disability Employment. It’s okay to reach out for help and you should because you deserve the best job you can get.
Assistive Technology
If you need further assistance understanding your studies, then take advantage of the many assistive technologies that can make life much easier. Many pieces of technology are available today, including digital workspaces, AI writing, and scheduling platforms.
If this technology can help you to understand the ropes at your job so you can further make your way up to management or if you need assistance to complete your assignments at school, then ask the administrators for assistance.
Become a Leader From Home
In the case that you are more comfortable working remotely where you have all the necessary tools at your disposal, then try creating a home-based business. You can try many ideas that will make you a successful leader and give you time to work on your wellness. For instance, you could start a special needs coaching business where you help parents to understand their child’s disability or help others with autism build their own company.
Those who are good with computers and programming could consider creating a company that builds and distributes disability apps. Another idea is to start a clothing company where you design and sell clothing and Halloween costumes that can be worn easily by people who have disabilities and can’t wear every outfit. You might also produce books with large print so everyone can enjoy them.