ADHD-Friendly Communication Tips

When communicating with neurodivergent individuals, such as those with ADHD, small changes in language and formatting can significantly reduce anxiety and improve understanding. This applies across various industries—from corporate environments to retail, rental agencies, and even personal relationships. Whether you’re interacting with friends, colleagues, or clients, these adjustments can make a big difference. While this article focuses on workplace and customer/client interactions, the tips can be applied to any relationship. Importantly, this isn’t about changing your style just for neurodivergent folks but making your overall communication more inclusive.

Be Clear and Direct

• Avoid ambiguous instructions. Be explicit about what you need.
  • Instead of saying, “Get this done soon,” say, “Please complete this by 3 PM today.”
• Break down complex tasks into smaller, manageable steps.
  • For example, “First, send the report to Sarah, then upload it to the shared drive.”
• Use direct language. Avoid idioms, metaphors, or sarcasm that can be misinterpreted.

Provide Structured Information

• Use bullet points or numbered lists to organize information clearly.
• Provide agendas before meetings so people can prepare in advance.
• Structure emails with clear subject lines and concise paragraphs.
  • Example: “Subject: Meeting Agenda for Nov 18th – Key Points”

Tailor Communication Channels

• Offer multiple communication options (e.g., email, chat, verbal) based on individual preferences.
  • Some people may prefer written instructions they can refer back to; others might find verbal communication easier.

Balance Detail

• Too much detail can overwhelm; too little can cause confusion.
  • Provide essential information upfront and offer additional details if requested.
  • Example: “Here’s the summary of the project. Let me know if you need more specifics.”

Use Positive and Inclusive Language

• Avoid language that could feel dismissive or patronizing.
  • Instead of saying, “He’s not good at multitasking,” say, “He excels when focusing on one task at a time.”
• Respect personal preferences for identity-first or person-first language (e.g., “She is autistic” vs. “She has autism”).

Communicating with Clients/Customers

When dealing with neurodivergent clients or customers clear communication is just as important. Here’s how you can adjust your approach:

Simplify Instructions

• When explaining products or services, keep instructions simple and to the point.
  • Example: Instead of saying, “Our product offers a wide range of features you’ll love,” say, “Our product helps you do X by doing Y.”

Use Clear Formatting

• In written communication (emails, contracts), use bullet points or numbered lists to break down key points.
  • Example: “Here’s what’s included in your rental agreement:
    • Rent amount: $1,200/month
    • Due date: The first of every month
    • Utilities: Water included; electricity separate.”

Avoid Overloading with Information

• Don’t overwhelm customers with too much information at once. Focus on the most relevant details first.
  • Example: If a customer asks about a product’s warranty, give them the basics first—then offer more details if needed.

Be Patient and Open to Questions

• Neurodivergent clients may need extra time to process information or ask follow-up questions. Be patient and avoid rushing them through interactions.
  • Example: If a customer seems unsure about something, ask them if they need clarification without making them feel pressured.

Offer Multiple Ways to Interact

• Some customers may prefer written communication over phone calls (or vice versa). Offer different ways for them to reach out—email, phone support, chat options—so they can choose what works best for them.

Set Clear Expectations

• Be upfront about timelines, costs, and next steps in any process (renting a property, buying a product).
  • Example: “Once you sign the lease today, we’ll need two days to process your application.”

Example: Alarm Inspection Notice

Let’s say a landlord sends this message to tenants:

Reminder! There will be an alarm inspection on Thursday, November 21 starting at 10:00 AM. They will be going into each apartment to check the alarms.

For someone who is neurodivergent, this message might raise more questions than it answers. Here’s why:

• Lack of Specifics: What exactly will they be doing in my unit? Will they just check the alarms, or will they need access to other areas?
• Unclear Timing: How long will the inspection take? Will the alarms go off multiple times? If so, how often and for how long?
• Uncertainty: Will I need to be home? Is there anything I need to prepare?

How to Improve It

Here’s a revised version that provides more clarity and reduces anxiety:

Reminder: There will be an alarm inspection on Thursday, November 21 starting at 10:00 AM. A technician will enter each unit to test the smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. The inspection in each unit should take about 10 minutes. The alarms may sound briefly during testing (1-2 times for about 5 seconds each). You do not need to be home but please ensure access to the alarms is clear. If you have pets or other concerns, please let us know in advance.

Why This Works Better:

• Specific Details: It explains what the technician will do (test smoke and CO alarms) and how long it will take.
• Clear Expectations: It mentions how many times the alarms might sound and for how long.
• Actionable Info: It tells tenants what they need to do (clear access) and gives them a way to communicate concerns (e.g., pets).

Conclusion

By making small adjustments in how you communicate—whether it’s simplifying instructions for clients or using clear formatting for colleagues—you can create an environment that supports neurodivergent individuals like those with ADHD. These changes not only reduce anxiety but also improve productivity and collaboration across your team while ensuring smoother interactions with customers.

Please keep in mind I am not a medical professional of any kind and these are just some personal observations and research based on my own experiences in the workplace and as a client/customer with ADHD.