October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). Whether you’re a business leader, an educator, or a community member, there are many ways to support NDEAM and promote inclusive hiring practices:
- Advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs to include disabilities, including intellectual and developmental
- Highlight success stories of employees with disabilities in your organization
- Partner with organizations like BCI to tap into a skilled, ambitious talent pool
- Join your Disability Employee Resource Group, if your organization offers one, to advance workplace accessibility and inclusion where you work.
If you already work with someone with an intellectual and developmental disability, here are some things you can do to help them thrive:
- Clearly define tasks and expectations
- Communicate openly, clearly, and directly
- Permit headphones at work when safe and appropriate
- Offer breaks as needed to support well-being
- Allow extra time to complete tasks when necessary
- Keep rules clear, concise, and consistently enforced
- Make socializing optional, not required
- Provide feedback that is both direct and considerate
- Invest in educating yourself and your team
- Be an active ally
- Cultivate a culture of acceptance and belonging
- Be mindful of sensory sensitivities
- Avoid speaking in riddles—say what you mean
- Respect personal routines and rituals
- Stay open to change—embrace it, encourage it, and lead by example
- Expect positivity in new and different ways
Workplaces that welcome individuals of all abilities become stronger, more innovative, and inclusive. By embracing diverse perspectives and skills, companies can foster greater creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration. Inclusive environments also boost morale and job satisfaction, as employees feel valued for their unique contributions. When everyone is given the opportunity to thrive, the entire workplace benefits from a richer, more dynamic culture that supports growth and success for all.
As we celebrate NDEAM this month, let’s all work to create more inclusive workplaces where everyone can thrive!