From the course: Empowering Dyslexic Thinking at Work

Advocate for yourself as an applicant

From the course: Empowering Dyslexic Thinking at Work

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Advocate for yourself as an applicant

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- Expected to fit into a process that makes you feel like a round peg in a square hole? Measured for the skills you find challenging, even though you know you've got the skills for the job? This is all too often the experience dyslexics have when applying for a job. It's no surprise that three out of four of us don't disclose our dyslexia for fear of being put at a disadvantage, but now is our time to embrace our dyslexic superpowers and stand out. This is exactly why LinkedIn added dyslexic thinking as a skill in April, 2022. Within a week, more than 10,000 people had added it to their profiles, with an average of 1,000 people more adding it every month. Thanks to LinkedIn, dyslexics everywhere are beginning to see our different way of thinking as a badge of honor rather than a stigma to hide. So as a dyslexic, it's vital you are upfront with hiring managers in the recruitment process and advocate for what you need to help you shine. Don't wait until you fail a psychometric test. Explain why you're likely to score badly in some areas ahead of time. Don't struggle with an application process that doesn't work for you. Ask for and explain the simple adjustments you need to showcase your dyslexic thinking and that you're a right fit for the job. And if you need further encouragement or support, reach out to the organization's ERG group to see what help and support is available. ERGs can be super helpful when it comes to onboarding, too, as these processes can be a bit painful and they will likely have been through it all themselves, and direct companies and recruiters to this training so they can understand more about dyslexic thinking and what we need to thrive. Advocating for yourself can feel like a brave step, but by highlighting the parts of the recruitment process that won't work for you and asking for the adjustments you need means you can create a level playing field so you're in with the best shot at succeeding. And remember, smart businesses are looking for dyslexic thinkers. So by advocating for your needs, you'll raise dyslexia awareness and can help shape the organization's recruitment process for other dyslexics who follow in your footsteps. Be the change. Here are five action points to bear in mind. One, add dyslexic thinking skills to your resume, CV, and LinkedIn profile, so organizations who are actively recruiting dyslexic thinkers can find you. Two, be upfront with colleagues and managers during the recruitment process. Explain your dyslexic strengths and challenges and what you need to do your best work. Three, remember that employers are looking for dyslexic thinkers, so if your skills are right for the job but the application process disadvantages dyslexics, let employers know. Four, if you come across a test or process that is impossible for your dyslexic thinking, ask for the adjustments you need so you can showcase your dyslexic thinking skills. And five, once you're in a role, be open with colleagues about being dyslexic. Add a line to your email signature to explain your dyslexic thinking. Mine has meant people no longer criticize my spelling and it's a real talking point.

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