Autism with an Extra Piece of Pie: Why Hiring Autistic isn’t Enough

As the CEO of Autism Insights Foundation, let me tell you: workplace inclusion isn’t just about checking a box or hiring someone and saying, “Good luck!” No way. True inclusion is about building an environment where people don’t just survive—they thrive. Think about it like hosting a potluck. You wouldn’t invite someone over, then leave them standing awkwardly in the doorway without a plate, right? Of course not! You’d pull out a chair, pile their plate with food they’ll love, and maybe even hand them an extra slice of dessert. That’s what an inclusive workplace should feel like—a space where everyone is welcomed, supported, and celebrated.

Creating that kind of space takes effort, though. It’s not just about opening the door—it’s about making sure the environment is accessible, supportive, and tailored to meet diverse needs. For neurodiverse employees, that might mean adjusting communication styles, offering flexible schedules, or providing tools that make work more manageable. It’s about saying, “We see you, we value you, and we’re going to make sure you have what you need to shine.”

When we get it right, the results are magical. Neurodiverse employees bring fresh perspectives, innovative problem-solving, and talents that can transform teams. They’re the ones who spot the one thing no one else saw or come up with ideas that spark real change. But here’s the catch: that brilliance only shows up when they feel comfortable, included, and empowered. Without the right support, it’s like inviting them to the potluck but forgetting to set the table—it just doesn’t work.

The good news? More workplaces are catching on. Leaders are starting to realize that inclusion isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s smart business. When people feel valued, they bring their best selves to work. Teams grow stronger, creativity flourishes, and everyone benefits. It’s not rocket science, but it does take intention and care.

So let’s keep this momentum going! Whether you’re an employer, a coworker, or an advocate, let’s make sure everyone at the workplace potluck has a seat, a plate, and a little extra dessert. Because when people thrive, the whole workplace thrives too—and that’s a recipe for success.

#InclusionMatters #NeurodiversityInTheWorkplace #AutismAcceptance #AutismInsightsFoundation