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  • New publication: Tech-Enabled Inclusion – Leveraging Social Media to Empower Neurodivergent Employees in the Workplace

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    Tile 1: Tech-Enabled Inclusion Leveraging Social Media to Empower Neurodivergent Employees in the Workplace Authors: Dr Maria Khan, Dr Carys W Chan, Dr Hongmin (Jess) Yan and Sudong Shang. Vector graphic showing diverse people (bottom) and the Griffith University and Inclusive Futures: Reimaging Disability logos (top).

    Can social media help make workplaces more inclusive for neurodivergent employees?

    A new study by the Centre for Work, Organisation and Wellbeing (WOW) at Griffith University, explores how social media can help create workplaces where everyone's unique way of thinking is valued. The researchers, Dr Maria Khan, Dr Carys W Chan, Dr Hongmin (Jess) Yan and Dr Sudong Shang, present a new framework that clarifies how technology could make a real difference for neurodivergent employees.

    The study explores how digital communication tools can empower neurodivergent employees (NDEs) by providing:

    • Psychological safety – A space where employees feel comfortable being their authentic selves.
    • Accessible communication – Social media allows for asynchronous interactions, reducing the pressure of real-time conversations.
    • Representation and visibility – NDEs can share their experiences, connect with peers, and advocate for workplace changes.
    • Empowered participation – Digital platforms offer new ways to engage in decision-making and collaboration.

    However, challenges remain—privacy concerns, inconsistent support, and workplace barriers still exist. Organisations must take intentional steps to leverage technology effectively, foster inclusive leadership, and understand the specific needs of neurodivergent employees.

    When inclusion is done right, everyone benefits. 🌍✨

    Read more: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/hrm.22290

    More information:
    Dr Maria Khan, Research Fellow
    Centre for Work, Organisation and Wellbeing (WOW)
    Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability
    Griffith University

    maria.khan@griffith.edu.au

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-a-khan/

    Citation:
    Khan, M., Wen Chan, X., Yan, H., & Shang, S. (2025). Tech-Enabled Inclusion: Leveraging Social Media to Empower Neurodivergent Employees in the Workplace. Human Resource Management, https://doi.org/10.1002/hrm.22290


    Can social media bridge the gap in workplace inclusion for neurodivergent employees? Photo of a neurodiverse male and female laughing and holding a tablet device. Griffith University and Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability logos (bottom right corner).


    Tile 4: Empowering Neurodivergent Employees: Representation Matters • Diverse Neurological Profiles: NDEs include individuals with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, Tourette syndrome, and more. • Unrepresented Talent Pool: Despite their unique strengths, NDEs often face workplace barriers and undervaluation. • Valuable Workplace Contributors: NDEs bring distinct skills and perspectives that can enhance innovation and productivity.



    Tile 5: Inclusion of NDEs Vector graphic with three diverse people including one wheelchair user holding signs with the words: • Psychological Safety and Authenticity: Creating a safe space for NDEs to be their true selves. • Workgroup Involvement: Encouraging meaningful participation and collaboration. • Respect and Influence: Ensuring NDEs feel valued and included in decision making.


    Tile 6: Inclusion Pathways Vector graphic with two business people (a woman in suit and man with pants, shirt and tie) with direction signs with the words: • NDE-related • Leader-related • Peer-related


    Tile 7: Social Media (SM) Vector graphic of a hand holding a mobile device with many diverse people on the screen and the text: Benefits • Builds self-efficacy & empowerment • Enables accessible communication & connection Challenges: • Privacy & safety concerns • Inconsistent supervisory & peer support


    Tile 8: Vector graphic with five diverse people with speech bubbles and the words: To support Neurodivergent employees, organisations must: 1. Leverage social media applications effectively. 2. Understand NDE-specific needs. 3. Foster an inclusive culture through leadership.


    Tile 9: Inclusive workplaces empower everyone! Six (6) Coloured circles with the words • Foster psychological safety (image: lock and cogs) • Encourage active involvement (image: megaphone) • Promote inclusive leadership (image: staff ID badge) • Support respectful communication (image: two people talking) • Recognise diverse contributions (image: trophy) • Provide accessible resources (image: tablet and pen with letters ABC)


    Tile 10: More information Red background with text and an image of Dr Maria Khan in a circle shape – Maria is a young Pakistani woman with long dark wavy hair, wearing a dark jumper and white collared blouse. Dr. Maria Khan is a postdoctoral research fellow at Griffith University's Centre for Work, Organisation and Wellbeing (WOW) and Griffith Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability. maria.khan@griffith.edu.au https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-a-khan/