The SEO industry, like many others, is evolving. But there’s one conversation that’s been too quiet for too long: How can we make the SEO industry more neurodivergent-friendly? It’s a question that more people are starting to ask, and for a good reason.
Back in 2021, I stumbled into talking about neurodiversity in SEO. It wasn’t planned—I was just going through my own diagnosis for autism and ADHD and realized there wasn’t much out there for others in our industry. Fast forward three years, and while the conversation has grown, there’s still a lot of work to be done. So, let’s talk about what we can do to make SEO more inclusive for everyone.
What Is Neurodivergence?
Before we dive into the SEO-specific stuff, let’s get on the same page about what neurodivergence is. According to Verywell Mind, neurodiversity is the concept that there are various ways people’s brains process information, function, and behave. It’s a spectrum, and on it, you’ll find terms like “neurotypical” (those whose brains function in a way that society deems typical) and “neurodivergent” (those whose brains function differently).
Some forms of neurodivergence you might be familiar with include:
Autism
ADHD
Dyslexia
Dyspraxia
Dyscalculia
Tourette’s
Synesthesia
This list is just the tip of the iceberg, and the neurodivergent community is vast and varied. If you’re unfamiliar with these terms, take some time to read up—it’s worth it.
Neurodivergence in the SEO Industry
Let’s zoom in on SEO. Chances are, you know more neurodivergent SEOs than you think. Thanks to communities like Neurodivergents in SEO, there’s a growing network of professionals who are starting to speak up and support one another. But there’s a long way to go before our industry is truly accommodating.
Working Arrangements for Neurodivergent People
The traditional office setup? It doesn’t work for everyone—especially not for many neurodivergent folks. Sensory overload, distractions, and rigid structures can make a typical workday challenging. That’s why flexibility is key.
As a freelancer, I’ve found the freedom to work from home, a coworking space, or even a coffee shop, depending on how I’m feeling. But not everyone has that luxury. Hybrid working models, flexible hours, and environments that cater to sensory needs (think adjustable lighting, soundproofing, and quiet areas) can make all the difference. As I always say, “A bit of flexibility can go a long way.”
Freelancing as a Neurodivergent Individual
The freelance world offers its own set of challenges and opportunities. I recently chatted with Lois Neville, a freelance SEO copywriter who’s been navigating the industry as a neurodivergent individual:
“Disclosure is one of the biggest hurdles I’ve encountered. Weighing up whether to share my autism with a client is something I am still navigating. It takes an emotional toll to continuously say, ‘Hey, I’m autistic, and this means x, y, and z.’”
Lois hit the nail on the head. Clients need to be more proactive in making the working environment accessible. Simple steps like discussing communication preferences, setting clear expectations, and allowing flexibility can ease a lot of pressure.
Neurodivergence and Job Interview Needs
When it comes to job interviews, the process can be daunting for anyone, let alone someone navigating neurodivergence. Employers can make a huge difference by offering clear instructions, flexible interview formats, and accommodations like extended time or alternative communication methods. These small changes can level the playing field and make the process less stressful for everyone involved.
Networking Events and Conferences
Let’s talk events. Networking can be hard for a lot of people, but for neurodivergent individuals, it can be especially tough. We need to rethink how we approach conferences and networking. Quiet rooms, alternative networking activities (like building LEGO or playing video games), and clear, accessible routes are just a few ideas that could make these events more inclusive.
This Is Just the Beginning
Neurodivergent individuals bring unique strengths to the table, but we can’t ignore the challenges they face. The SEO industry has a lot of potential to be more inclusive, but it requires a collective effort to get there. We need to stay curious, informed, and proactive in making changes that support all members of our community.
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