In today’s job market, there is a pool of finance and accounting graduates eagerly seeking employment opportunities. They have finished their degree, done up their CV, applied to many companies, completed the interviews, and then hit a wall. The traditional interview is a significant barrier to employment for neurodivergent people. Many will end up unemployed or underemployed – doing a role that does not match their qualifications or ability. Why?
Firstly, in case you don’t know, let’s explain what we mean by neurodiversity. It means that there is a difference in an individual’s brain function and behavioural traits. It is regarded as a normal variation. It is estimated that 15-20% of people in Ireland are neurodivergent, which includes conditions like autism, ADHD, dyslexia and dyspraxia.
Alarmingly, Ireland has the lowest rate of employment for people with disabilities in Europe at just 32.6%.
Getting back to the traditional interview and traditional hiring practices. Why don’t they work for neurodivergent people?
The emphasis on social interaction and communication skills presents a challenge. Many neurodivergent individuals struggle in this area, often underselling their achievements, having difficulty with eye contact or succumbing to interview anxiety. These same people might have a love of data, they might enjoy routine tasks that others find boring, they might love the nitty gritty detail that others shy away from. Sound like a great employee? Unfortunately, they can’t get past an interview.
Read the full article here on CPAIreland.ie: https://digital.cpaireland.ie/issue/december-2023/specialisterne-ireland-and-the-untapped-talent-pool/
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