Human to Human: Rethinking Networking for Neuroinclusion and True Belonging
Ludmila Praslova, Ph.D., SHRM-SCP, ??
Award-Winning Author, The Canary Code | Professor, Organizational Psychology & Business | Speaker | Culture | HR | Inclusion | Belonging | Wellbeing | ?? Moral Injury | Neurodiversity | Autism @ Work | Global Diversity |
Human connection and a sense of belonging are vital to our psychological well-being and even our survival. And, of course, our work productivity is also built on the foundation of well-being. But while the need for connection is universal, how we connect varies greatly. In the context of work, supporting human thriving requires understanding that connection doesn’t look the same for everyone. Neurodiversity , for example, is a diversity of how we respond to physical environments, think, socialize, process emotions, and communicate stemming from our neurobiological differences.
Sadly, traditional models of workplace networking have not accounted for this diversity. They have been designed in ways that often leave neurodivergent people out.
Neuroinclusive Networking Matters
Traditional networking emphasizes fast-paced exchanges and group gatherings in large and often noisy places. For those who prefer smaller groups, deeper connection, and need to reduce sensory overwhelm, this can lead to risking burnout trying to fit in - or being disconnected and excluded. This also sidelines talented people who could bring unique perspectives and valuable skills to the workplace.
To support genuine belonging, leaders must recognize these differences and support alternative networking methods that honor different ways of connecting. Neuroinclusive networking is about enriching the workplace culture by embracing a variety of interaction styles that help everyone feel valued.
Rethinking Networking for Inclusion
Connection, Belonging, and Dignity
True belonging cannot be built on a one-size-fits-all formula. Flexibility is a non-negotiable for a workplace where every individual can thrive. By designing networking opportunities that value diversity in connection styles, organizations can create environments for genuine belonging—ensuring that everyone feels supported, valued, and connected in ways that work for them. By respecting differences in how we connect, we support our universal human need for belonging, and we treat each other with dignity – a must for a true human connection and understanding.
??Read more about neuroinclusive networking in my Forbes article: Neurodiversity And Careers: How To Make Networking Neuroinclusive .
??Read more about the need for an inclusive view on human connection and building neuroinclusive belonging in my just-out book chapter, Making Human Connection Neuroinclusive in Connectedness , a book edited by Des Dearlove and Lisa Humphries .
?? And if you have not yet, you can read more about making organizations systemically neuroinclusive in my book, The Canary Code: A Guide to Neurodiversity, Dignity, and Intersectional Belonging at Work which just hit two milestones: ?? 6 months since the release in May 2024 AND ?? receiving a great honor on being of the Fall 2024 PenCraft award! From the press release: the PenCraft Book Award "recognizes books of remarkable literary quality, artistic excellence, and popularity with readers. The Canary Code exemplified these criteria as a winner in the Non Fiction - Business/Finance genre."??
?? Prefer listening? Check out my podcast episode Autistics Thriving at Work ? on the Philip King-Lowe AuDHD podcast, Today's Autistic Moment (or read the transcript!)
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1 天前Hello Ludmila how do you do dear? Could you support me for Art Exhibition in California?? Me and my team who love art and painting as I am an Artist making Painting I would like to exchange my own life experience showing my Painting my artwork In different place of California form my different types of colors like Soft pastel water colors Do you think as an artist who belong from Karachi . Should be move to see California Art Culture and showing his own artwork there? If Yes then how ??
Startup COO | Operations and Strategy Executive | Executive Coach | Neurodiversity Advocate
1 天前"Many neurodivergent people find small talk superficial and stressful, yet love connecting around shared interests." Yes, Ludmila Praslova, Ph.D., SHRM-SCP, ??. When I was regularly attending CES, I struggled yet found connection by identifying the introverts and asking deep questions until I clicked with someone. That formula meant I was cut off from the large swath of people who don't operate that way, who perhaps wanted to go clubbing or dance all night. How can we create neuroinclusive networking that feels inclusive for all types, including the "extroverted neurotypicals"
Empowering Athletes and Teams Through Personal & Organizational Development | Leadership Coach | Champion of Growth and Resilience | MS I-O Psychology
3 天前Human connection and belonging allow for less stress on the individual in general. Apply this to the workplace, and we will see better results from our people!
Manager at Wise Guys Pizzeria - Masters in Industrial and Organizational Psychology - Bachelors in Psychology
3 天前I love this take on networking. Inclusivity and even adapting regular processes to be inclusive of neurodivergent or other diversities is important in creating healthy organizations and environments.
Retired - Formerly: Lawyer - Managing Director GMAC Corporation - Mgt Consultant - Currently: Featured Contributor BIZCATALYST360.com
6 天前Cognitive diversity holds valuable and disruptive skills: a valuable asset for the digital world, where the need to solve complex problems, constantly innovate and think creatively is the norm. Sharing work with a neurodivergent person requires putting yourself on the line, but it is a real added value, made up of skills that can prove invaluable for the world of innovation: characteristics that are generally difficult to find in the “neuronormal” workforce, but which nevertheless have disruptive and, above all, useful potential. Networking is important for neurodivergent individuals who often face unique challenges in social interactions. Networking provides a structured way to connect with others, fostering relationships that can lead to professional growth, emotional support and shared experiences. Of course, building a support network is not just about having a list of contacts; it is about creating a network of relationships that provide emotional, practical and professional support.