As a neurodivergent jobseeker, the job market climate can be a highly distressing experience. For one, you must interact with someone along the production chain to ensure their needs are met. But on the other hand, the idea of interaction may also be a source of discomfort for you because of your neurological makeup.

On top of that, you need to grapple with the fact that most jobs require mandatory personality tests that are not designed to accommodate those who are neurodivergent. This makes the whole process even more taxing. Therefore, building a support network and forming peer and mentor connections is paramount & will see you through the job market. We’ve outlined the importance of having strong social connections for neurodivergent jobseekers, but first, let’s discuss what a Mentor connection & peer groups entail.

Mentor connection and Peer group

A mentor connection is an individual/group/organisation that can provide guidance, advice, and support to someone who is neurodivergent. Mentors have adequate knowledge about specific employment issues faced by neurodivergent job seekers.

They can provide support, and advice on recruitment processes, inform you about positive workplace cultures for neurodivergent people and provide a different perspective on the job market.

On the other hand, peer groups are individuals with similar problems, interests, or characteristics as yours. These groups can be based on activities, hobbies, opinions, ideologies, or even neurotype. Having a peer group helps you find strength and gain insight from like-minded people in a similar life stage.

Benefits of Peer and Mentor Connections

The importance of having a solid peer group or mentor connection must be balanced. Below are some of the benefits that come with having strong peer and mentor connections:

Learn about job opportunities in the field of study

Many jobs will often be posted on platforms and networks, but since the job market is competitive, one will likely miss out on opportunities when they need to inform about them. A mentor connection or peer group network means you get information promptly and efficiently. It also gives you an edge over other jobseekers since you get to apply for the job before it’s marked as closed.

It helps you address challenging situations at work.

Having a mentor or peer group network can prove beneficial, especially when it comes to addressing challenging situations in the workplace. For one, you are interacting with people who have passed through similar experiences, so the advice you receive is more likely to be tailored for those who understand what it feels like to struggle in an environment that may not always be accommodating.

It helps you obtain links to other professionals

Having a strong mentor and peer connection means you have access to various resources and contacts that can lead to other job opportunities. It helps connect you to people who can open doors that may have been shut. You also get to become a mentor in the long run because you’ve struggled to navigate the job market. You can pass on your knowledge and help out those coming after you.

Practice disclosing a disability-related need

When you’re comfortable sharing your story, it can be a powerful way to increase visibility and build community. It helps those with similar experiences feel seen and gives them the courage to be open about their journey. It also helps increase awareness, making more resources available for neurodivergent job seekers. That said, Plan, use inclusive language (e.g., “people with disabilities” or “autistic and not people with autism” versus “disabled people”), and practice self-care.

Be positive, & patient

Building and maintaining relationships with peers and mentors can be a long process. It’s important to remember that everyone is different, and sometimes you’ll deal with every personality conflict. It’s essential to remain positive and patient and come from a point of understanding. It also helps you win the respect of the people you interact with. So basically, be open-minded and honest, and don’t get involved in drama or unnecessary arguments.

Be consistent

Consistency is critical to building and maintaining a strong peer and mentor connection. More than just reaching out to people occasionally is needed; nurturing relationships regularly (e.g., monthly or quarterly check-ins) is essential. This shows that you are genuinely interested in getting to know them and being part of the network. Also, don’t just reach out when you require something; create meaningful relationships for mutual benefit.

With these tips, you are better equipped to build and maintain a strong support network with peers and mentors. The importance of having this type of connection cannot be overstated, especially for neurodivergent job seekers. It helps increase awareness, provides resources, gives access to other professionals and creates an environment conducive to success.

Reference:

Indeed. (n.a). https://uk.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-a-find-mentor