The Evolution of Xceptional – From Hiring Neurodivergent Talent to Fostering Inclusive Teams

In 2017, Xceptional started a mission to create meaningful careers for neurodivergent talent. Our initial focus was providing technology services, namely software testing. Our aim was to bridge the gap between neurodivergent individuals and employers. The employers we approached had other ideas, they were interested in hiring skilled neurodivergent individuals for themselves. From there we...

What is behind the rise in ADHD diagnoses?

What is ADHD? ADHD Australia  provides a useful definition, ADHD refers to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), a complex neuro-developmental disorder which affects a person’s ability to exert age-appropriate self-control. It is characterised by persistent patterns of inattentive, impulsive, and sometimes hyperactive behaviour, and is frequently accompanied by emotional regulation challenges. In recent years, the...

Inclusive Leadership Lessons from Coach Ted Lasso

In today’s workplace, leadership styles have evolved to embrace more inclusive, empathetic, and holistic approaches. One unexpected yet prime example of this modern leadership archetype can be found not in boardrooms but on a fictional soccer field. “Ted Lasso,” Apple TV+’s surprise hit, showcases an American coach’s journey as he leads an English football team,...

Are you rushing back to the office?

I happened upon a day working in a city office recently. While I did appreciate the change of scenery I was struck by how few people occupied the floor I was on and how much extra money I spent. A coffee here, take away lunch, parking and tolls. It adds up! I had also forgotten...

Why do we need to meet at 9am?

The employer partners Xceptional support to attract and retain neurodivergent people are committed to creating inclusive environments for all. However there is often a perception that providing reasonable adjustments for neurodivergent people is costly and time consuming. Through April we will share a number of insights that show reasonable adjustments for neurodivergent people can be...

What’s wrong with meeting in a cafe?

I love coffee. After  years living in Melbourne I have an appreciation for the sights and aroma of cafes and used to love nothing more than pretending I was a digital nomad and working from a cafe.  However, as we continue to navigate the pandemic and adjust to new work environments, I have come to...

Why Unstructured Meetings Are Challenging for Autistic People

I have both a confession and an apology to make. Every primary school report card I ever had included the same sentence: ‘Aron is frequently distracted and often distracts others’. I’m afraid this attribute has followed me into adulthood and is most visible in unstructured meetings. An unstructured meeting is a primary school classroom for...

Invisible diversity and belonging

As businesses continue to prioritise diversity and inclusion within their workplace, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of disclosure of personal characteristics, such as sexuality and disability, in fostering a sense of belonging among employees. While most available data suggests the vast majority of employees with disabilities do not disclose, Forbes, only...