ADHD Energy: Injecting Dynamism into Tech Startups
James Marshall
Business Development | Relationships | Executive Search in AI, Data Science, Quant | Championing ADHD in Tech & Finance | Building PropTech SAAS.
ADHD brings unique strengths that can inject dynamism into tech startups. As someone diagnosed with ADHD, managing it has transformed how I approach both work and life. Through hyperfocus, adaptability, and quick decision-making, individuals with ADHD can be powerful drivers of innovation and execution in fast-paced environments like startups.
Here’s how ADHD traits can benefit high-growth tech companies:
1. Hyperfocus for Problem-Solving
ADHD can lead to hyperfocus—an intense concentration on engaging tasks. In tech startups, this focus is a game-changer for problem-solving. When ADHD individuals zero in on a high-priority challenge, they can work through complex problems with relentless dedication.
Actionable Insight: Structure your team’s workflow to allow for deep focus. Are you setting aside time for engineers or data scientists to fully immerse in critical tasks without interruptions?
2. Adaptability to Change
Startups move fast, and priorities shift often. ADHD individuals excel in dynamic and ever-changing environments. They adapt quickly, pivot easily, and thrive where no two days are identical. Their ability to respond to shifting needs keeps projects on track in high-pressure situations.
Actionable Insight: Create a flexible environment that allows for fast pivots. How does your company handle sudden changes? Are you leveraging adaptability as a strength?
3. High Energy for Execution
ADHD brings a high level of energy. In startups, this energy translates to rapid execution. Teams with ADHD professionals can quickly complete tasks, accelerate development cycles, and keep momentum strong, even under tight timelines.
Actionable Insight: Capitalize on bursts of productivity. Is your team utilising ADHD individuals' high-energy periods to advance crucial projects?
4. Creative Thinking for Innovation
ADHD minds often connect ideas in ways that others might not. This out-of-the-box thinking fuels innovation, helping startups develop fresh solutions to challenging problems. It’s a catalyst for the kind of creativity that drives growth.
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Actionable Insight: Encourage idea generation from all angles. How do you foster an environment where creativity thrives? Are you encouraging diverse thought processes within your team?
5. Resilience Under Pressure
Startups are fast, intense, and often stressful. ADHD individuals can thrive under pressure, using their ability to focus in high-stakes situations to deliver when it matters most. They show resilience, diving into complex tasks and delivering results quickly.
Actionable Insight: Leverage resilience during high-pressure periods. Are you providing opportunities for your team members to take ownership of fast-moving, high-stakes tasks?
6. Quick Decision-Making
ADHD individuals often make decisions quickly, processing large amounts of information in a short period. Their ability to make quick and decisive choices is invaluable in a tech startup, where speed is critical.
Actionable Insight: Empower your team to make fast decisions. Do you give team members the autonomy to make important decisions quickly without getting bogged down in bureaucracy?
Managing my own ADHD has been a journey that has transformed how I work and manage my time. For startups, ADHD professionals can be an incredible asset, bringing dynamism that can push teams to greater heights.
If you’re considering maximising neurodiverse talent in your organisation, reach out. I’d be happy to share my insights and hear about your experiences.
How are you leveraging the strengths of ADHD in your workplace? Let's connect and discuss strategies that work!
This article is part of my LinkedIn newsletter, Innovative Talent Insights. Stay tuned for more tips and insights on optimising talent for success in tech, finance, and beyond.
Senior Consultant | Experience, Marketing, Innovation & Strategy | Senior MBA Faculty | Board Advisor | Keynote Speaker | Advocate for Neuroinclusion | 2x Founder
1 个月Jamie, I hear you. And I feel this, keenly. Business-wise, there are incredible stats (you’re 100% more likely to be an entrepreneur is you have ADHD - there are mixed reasons suggested as to why, according to this article https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11187-018-0061-1) I’m just going to prepare you though - not all the ND community agree with the “superpowers” narrative. In fact, it is increasingly divisive. My approach is balanced. I have badass powers, but also, Kryptonite. I have more extreme highs, and lows. When I have had burnout, it’s remarkable how the memory of having super skills has lifted me out of the doom. However, that’s not everyone. Often we hear it is quite the opposite, and this is part of the reason I’m exploring it for my PhD. You should meet Samuel Budd. He’s an ND-positive framed entrepreneur, too. I think you’ll get on!