The Future of Jobs: Leveraging Neuroinclusion

Infinity symbol in a rainbow gradient, representing neurodiversity. Below the symbol, the word "Neurodiversity" is written in black text.

What will the future of the workplace look like? The World Economic Forum has released its Future of Jobs Report 2025. This article will provide the key data and information as it relates to the global industry and Ireland, as well as connect findings from the report to the importance of creating a neuroinclusive workplace. Specifically, how businesses can leverage neuroinclusion to transform their workplace.

Key Findings- Future of Jobs Report 2025

Globally, employers indicated a variety of skills that they deemed as desirable. Among the most popular were analytical thinking with 69% of employers finding this as a desirable trait, creative thinking for 57% and dependability and attention to detail for 37%.

There were many barriers to transformation noted by employers. 63% noted skill gaps in the labour market, 46% noted organisational culture and resistance to change, 39% noted an outdated regulatory framework, and 37% noted an inability to attract talent to the industry.

Noting that 37% cited inability to attract talent to the industry, it is important to note that neurodivergent people can struggle in traditional recruitment processes and are therefore, often unintentionally excluded. For employers who are struggling to attract talent, they could diversify their workplace and utilise this available, capable population by learning what it takes to attract and retain neurodivergent employees.

Additionally, many neurodivergent workers who are successful in recruitment, often later withdraw from their organisation if they perceive a lack of inclusion in the company culture. With 46% of employers citing resistance to change and organisational culture as a workplace barrier, it will be important for employers to implement training and educational initiatives to promote an inclusive environment where all can thrive.

Leveraging Neuroinclusion in the Workplace

There is great value in practicing neuroinclusion. Not only will it help employers attract and retain neurodivergent staff, but it will create a space where everyone feels respected and included. Neurodivergent people experience and interact with the world in different ways. The neurodivergent community includes people with ADHD, autism, OCD, along with others. Building a neurodivergent staff allows organisations to utilise diverse perspectives, information processing, and innovative solutions.

See figure 1 below this paragraph for a visualisation of the commonalities of desired employee traits set out in the report and those of a neurodivergent person.

Taking Action on Neuroinclusion

As shown in the graphic above, there are many overlaps between desired employee traits and common traits of neurodivergent individuals. The future of the workplace can benefit from creating a culture of neuroinclusion. A clear answer to organisations looking for these traits in their employees; learn how to effectively recruit and retain neurodivergent staff.

If you’re interested in building more inclusive workplaces and learning how to support neurodivergent talent, join our mailing list to stay updated with our insights and resources or contact us.