Working with dyslexia can be stressful, especially when targets are on the table. How can we support those with dyslexia in the workplace?

Modern business practice often necessitates that we move between tasks quickly and efficiently. As the year goes by, targets pivot from growing and building to really knuckling down and working on targets. This means that for those who read and learn differently, there’s sadly more pressure than ever, especially when it comes to getting through emails, messages and project files. So, where do we go from here?

With the right support systems in place, this pressure can be relieved without much disruption. In this article, we’re going to explore how changing structures and responsibilities, making work accessible, and implementing text-to-speech support can help make sure having dyslexia doesn’t impact on progress, stress levels and workplace wellbeing.

Changing structures and responsibilities

One of the best ways to support dyslexic colleagues and reduce their workplace stress is by reassessing existing structures and responsibilities—with their consent and input, of course. Employers in 2023 need to actively promote an inclusive culture that understands and accommodates the diverse needs of their workforce. This involves re-evaluating the allocation of tasks and responsibilities with the strengths and abilities of dyslexic individuals. Or it might mean checking appropriate safety nets like proofreading or write-up support are in place.

It also means that when it comes to progression, targets and KPIs, dyslexia should be taken into account. Something like responding swiftly to long emails or working on reading tasks quickly shouldn’t be used as part of a matrix for skill assessment unless the colleague believes they are appropriately supported. 

Creating a flexible work environment can also significantly alleviate stress for dyslexic employees. Introducing variable working hours, remote work options, or job-sharing arrangements helps individuals with dyslexia manage their time effectively and work in an environment that suits their needs—and crucially, help them work toward their targets more swiftly and with confidence. People work better when and where they’re comfortable.

Making work truly accessible

To ensure an inclusive workplace for dyslexic colleagues, it is crucial to make work materials and resources accessible—everything from MS Teams messages to whitepapers, emails and graphics. Employers should provide documents in dyslexia-friendly formats, using dyslexia-friendly fonts, clear layouts, and appropriate contrasting.

Additionally, the use of bullet points, headings, and subheadings is often reported by dyslexic individuals to help them navigate information easily.

The adoption of assistive technology can also play a significant role in making work accessible. Dyslexic colleagues may benefit hugely from using spelling and grammar checkers, speech-to-text systems and time management software to enhance their productivity and accuracy. These tools enable dyslexic individuals to focus on their core competencies rather than being overwhelmed by the mechanics of reading and writing, meaning that they can focus on what matters.

Hacking reading with text-to-speech support

Text-to-Speech (TTS) technology has proven to be an incredibly valuable tool in supporting dyslexic colleagues within the workplace, especially when time pressure is on. By converting written documents into spoken words, TTS technology assists dyslexic colleagues in comprehending and absorbing information more quickly and effectively—also removing a large portion of the stresses of decoding.

There are many available TTS formats, including dedicated input programs and browser extensions, but it’s important to remember these systems don’t translate to the printed word. In many roles and industries, this is still where we do most of our reading—so pen-style scanning devices like C-Pen Reader 2 and ReaderPen Secure are pivotal puzzle pieces in ensuring our colleagues with dyslexia don’t struggle to access the materials they need to succeed.

Thriving with dyslexia: how Secure Reader 2 is transforming data work 

Secure Reader 2provides reading support without compromising data security or quality of support. Businesses can nurture neurodiversity and be more inclusive without worrying about a data breach. There’s no built-in storage function, so the scanned data stays precisely where it’s safe to be, between the pen and its user, and doesn’t get saved when the pen is closed down.

Use it for:

·      Long-haul reading exercises like whitepapers and manuals

·      Short reading exercises, like flyers and letters

·      Safety materials and assessed testing materials

·      Supporting through requalification, upskilling and CPD

·      Discreet reading support—features headphone audio

·      Multi-language functionality and translation

·      Keeping data secure when colleagues require reading support

·      Supporting on-the-go, for workers not often at their desk or who work hybrid

Reliable — Portable — Discreet — Rechargeable — Zero-Storage