• Dealing With Dyslexia in the Workplace

    Date: 08.11.2011

    One of the most common learning disabilities, dyslexia is a condition that impacts an individual’s ability to decode the written word and makes it difficult to read and write with fluency and ease. Although the many varying levels of the condition make it difficult to assess how prevalent dyslexia is, a 2002 study found that as many as 10% of the adult population in Australia may suffer from moderate to severe dyslexia, while up to 30% of the adult population may have a mild form of the disorder.

    These statistics indicate that most workplaces in Australia are likely to have one or more workers who are coping with dyslexia. If one of your co-workers or direct reports has been diagnosed as dyslexic, here are some simple steps you can take to help them succeed.

    • Focus on strengths. Many individuals with dyslexia have excellent ‘people’ skills, verbal communication abilities, and spatial/visual skills. Assign responsibilities that align well with each employee’s competencies. 
    • Be flexible. In some instances, it may be worthwhile to allow some extra leeway to dyslexic employees when it comes to tasks involving reading and writing.
    • Make the most of new technologies. Advances like voice recognition software and video conferencing can eliminate stress for dyslexic employees.   
    • Distinguish between the condition and employee performance. Convey that you understand the constraints imposed by dyslexia – but at the same time, make it clear that you expect the best from each employee. 
    • If necessary, seek out expert advice. Many adults with dyslexia can benefit tremendously from specialized training or classes geared to help them optimize their career success.

    Dyslexia is one of the most common learning disabilities, and statistics indicate that most of us will work with someone who is dyslexic at some point in our professional lives.  Promoting dyslexia awareness in the workplace and striving to help co-workers with this condition is a definitely a worthwhile proposition.