Supporting workers with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is not only an issue of inclusion; it's a strategic action towards optimising potential and productivity of your workforce.  

We decided that our focus for ADHD Awareness Month, would be to cut through the noise and concentrate on sharing evidence-based solutions that can be quickly implemented by leaders and organisations.

Studies estimate that a 4.4% of people live with ADHD. That's a sizeable part of the workforce that boast advanced skills in problem solving, trend recognition, creativity and hyper focus. Putting those skills to use is the easy part for, the challenge is creating a workplace environment that allows organisations to take advantage of them.

Understanding ADHD

Let's get straight to the point. Those with ADHD typically experience challenges with what are known as 'Executive Functions'. If you don't know what these are, they include areas such as organisation, time management, and sustaining focus. Studies show that when the working conditions for ADHD aren't right, companies will likely experience lower work performance and more absence. On the other side, those same studies also show, that precisely the opposite occurs when conditions are optimal and the right level of support is in place. Where do you start?

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Here are 7 Evidence-Based Approaches that you can start using today to optimise the performance of employees with ADHD.

1. Structured Environment with Flexibility

Adults with ADHD gained from outside enforced structure in the workplace, according a 2010 Barkley and Murphy study that was written up in the Journal of Attention Disorders. They did, however, also stress the need of the system providing some flex.

Work with your ADHD staff to develop individualised plans including frequent breaks and task switching. This can help keep interest high and a more consistent concentration that can last throughout the day.

2. Clear Deadlines and Break Down of Tasks

Studies by Niermann and Scheres (2014) in the journal Biological Psychiatry found that those with ADHD performed better on tasks when activities were divided into smaller chunks with frequent rewards.

We've had a lot of success in adopting project management tools that let you track visual development and divide out tasks. This benefits not just your ADHD staff but also general team output.  

3. Reduce Distractions

Open-plan workplaces can be especially difficult for employees with ADHD, according to a 2019 Lindström et al. study in the Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment & Health, which emphasises the requirement of distraction-free work settings.

One practical tip is to set aside quiet workspace or encourage noise-cancelling headphones. Those ‘Work Day Focus’ playlists on Spotify actually make a difference. Also consider setting "focus time" or having a traffic light system for when team members decide to minimise disruptions - Red = 'I'm in the zone'.

4. Explore Technology

Digital solutions meant for ADHD control can greatly increase work performance and organisation abilities, according to Mohr et al. (2017), in a study printed in the Journal of Medical Internet Research.

Encourage the use of task management tools, digital calendars including reminders, and time-tracking applications. These instruments support time management and organisation. There are many new apps launched specifically for enhancing productivity of the ADHD brain. In our experience, you can achieve the same results in suites such as Microsoft 365.

5. Consistent Catch Ups and Feedback

Regular feedback and goal-setting in cognitive behavioural therapy—which involves regular feedback and goal-setting—can help adults with ADHD perform better at their jobs, according to a 2017 Bikic et al. paper in the Nordic Journal of Psychiatry.

Plan quick, frequent meetings with your ADHD staff members. These meetings should be used to give explicit comments, change objectives if needed, and handle any obstacles. These small but intentional interactions clear the tracks for progress to continue and also deepen the trust held within the working relationship.

6: Promote Physical Exercise

Physical exercise can greatly reduce ADHD symptoms, including attention and cognitive performance, according a meta-analysis by Cerrillo-Urbina et al. (2015) that was written up in the Journal of Attention Disorders.

Instill frequent mobility breaks or maybe look at standing workstations. For one-on-one conversations, we discovered success with "walking meetings" and encouraging people to be on the move whenever they can be.

7. ADHD Coaching

For individuals with ADHD, knowing themselves and self-awareness is critical to understanding how they can perform at their best. It can greatly enhance time management, organisation, and goal attainment, according a 2010 Kubik research in the Journal of Attention Disorders.

Everyone with ADHD in your organisation should have the benefit of a coach. Take it from us when we say this investment will result in notable increases in job satisfaction and productivity.

The Bigger Picture

A reframe is needed. Helping employees with ADHD is about releasing potential rather than only about accommodation and adjustments and the techniques above will most likely support everyone in your team. Trusting relationships, clear communication, structured work environments, and tools for better organisation can enhance productivity across the board.  

Moving Forward

Remember, every person with ADHD is different. The secret is to keep open lines of communication, remain flexible, and emphasise strengths above constraints. With the correct support, staff workers with ADHD will be among your most valued team members since they provide to your company original ideas, energy, and creativity.  

An inclusive workplace with a competitive edge.

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