How to be more inclusive at your event
I've spoken to a number of friends lately with a variety of neurodivergent needs and asked them about what would help make them feel more comfortable at events.
With International Confex going live this week, I thought I'd share some of those tips here to help make your own experience more inclusive.
I should point out - I am NOT an expert in neurodivergent needs, I am using my storytelling skills to share my own and others' experiences to help make the event more inclusive.
If you have other points that you think we could add to this blog, please do add them in the comments below and I can add them to the blog.
With around 15-20%* of the population in the UK being neurodiverse, I should also point out that no two people with neurodiversity are the same - so my points won't be the same for everyone at the event this week.
More than anything, just being aware that everyone you speak to may have different needs, is the most important thing.
Presentations and Sessions
When it comes to presentations and speeches, where you may have an audience of more than one (hopefully!), it's incredibly important to allow time for everyone to interact.
Our top tips for audience inclusion are:
Speak as clearly and concisely as possible - avoid jargon.
Don't ask "can you hear me without the mic" If there is a mic, use it as it will work with the headphones and you haven't just embarrassed someone who cannot hear well.
Ask questions throughout your session - although people can take notes and ask later, some will struggle for memory recall in a short space of time or get multiple points jumbled, so regular question breaks help make sessions more inclusive.
Provide ample time for questions - there are often people with neurodivergent needs who process information more slowly and need more time to get their words right, be patient.
If you don't hear a question properly or it appears jumbled, don't joke about it - it's incredibly embarrassing - instead, ask the person if they could repeat it or write it down and hand you the question to read aloud.
Exhibiting or Networking
Networking or focusing on an exhibitor's sales pitch can be tricky for those with neurodivergent conditions as these types of areas at an event, can pull on so many senses that may give sensory overload.
Here are our top tips:
Be aware of your surroundings - some people may be extra sensitive to light and sound and too much can cause a lot of stress. If you can tell someone is struggling with the crazy light or sound system next to you - ask if they want to go somewhere quieter to talk.
Give ample time for conversations - it's important to give everyone the same amount of time to explain what they do. Don't try to rush people along or move on too quickly - everyone has something to say but some may take longer than others to get their words out.
Use body language - if someone has difficulty with speech, gesturing and facial expressions can be a great way to communicate if you don't know sign language. Don't be afraid to use gestures and visual cues, however, also be aware that some may not understand nonverbal queues, which I come onto in my next point.
Avoid nonverbal queues – which are actions or gesture used to communicate a message without the use of words. Common examples include facial expressions, eye contact, body language, hand gestures and tone of voice. Nonverbal cues can be both intentional and unintentional and are used to convey feelings, sentiments or emotions that may not be expressed verbally. Some people with neurodivergent conditions have difficulty understanding facial expressions, so support your actions by communicating clearly and directly.
Respect the need for space when talking with someone. Take your cues from them and don't be afraid to ask if they need a break.
Be patient; some people may take longer to warm up to you. Try not to make too many assumptions as to why someone is being direct or blunt with their answers, or in some cases even sounding rude. Respect that everyone communicates differently, so don't be put off by a lack of eye contact or an unexpected response.
If you’re using HashTags from the event – check out my article last week here on the correct use of capitalization to make your hashtags easier to read.
Above all, respect everyone’s boundaries and accept that not every interaction will be the same as you'd usually expect - they may need to take a break or have some time out at any point. And remember, it's ok to ask someone what works best for them - just make sure to be respectful in your approach.
We hope that these tips come in handy when you’re attending International Confex this week!
*National Library of Medicine
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7732033/