We know that innovation is best fuelled when there are diverse perspectives around the table. And while many diversity initiatives focus on gender and culture, there is another crucial dimension that often goes overlooked - neurodiversity. In particular, the cognitive strengths of dyslexic thinkers. 

While it may be classed as a learning disability, according to Dorenda Britten and Chris Cole from our partner Unlock Innovation, Dyslexia is a different way of thinking; one that offers unique insights and abilities that can drive creativity and amplify problem-solving in the workplace.

Dorenda and Chris are champions for how dyslexic thinking has the potential to unlock new paths to innovation, particularly in industries where complex problem-solving and forward-thinking are key. In this article, we’ll share their insights on how embracing dyslexic strengths can help build more innovative, resilient, and inclusive teams. 

But first, it's essential to understand what dyslexia is and how it shapes the way individuals process information, communicate, and contribute to team dynamics.

What is dyslexia and why does this matter?‍

Dyslexia is often mislabelled as a just reading or writing challenge. But there is so much more to dyslexia than this negative connotation. At its core, dyslexia is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects the way the brain processes language. It is a different way of thinking; one that is characterised by strengths in big-picture thinking, creative problem-solving, and emotional intelligence. 

According to research, approximately 1 in 5 people are dyslexic, meaning that about 20% of the population has these distinct cognitive traits. This translates to approximately 1.3 million individuals in New Zealand alone. Despite its prevalence, dyslexia is often underrepresented in discussions about diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Something the team at Unlock Innovation is working to correct. 

For years, traditional education and workplace systems have been designed around “neurotypical” thinkers, i.e.: those whose brains process information in ways that align with the mainstream. As a result, dyslexic individuals may feel out of place in environments that favour linear thinking or word-based communication. The key to unlocking their potential lies in recognising their unique cognitive differences and creating environments where these differences can be harnessed.

The strengths of dyslexic brains

Dyslexic individuals often possess a range of strengths that are invaluable to organisations, especially in creative and problem-solving roles. Here are some of the key strengths associated with dyslexic thinking:

Big picture thinking

Dyslexic people are often highly adept at seeing the bigger picture and excel in understanding how different elements come together to form a whole. This ability is crucial in industries where innovation and system-wide solutions are needed. Dyslexic individuals can identify patterns, recognise opportunities for improvement, and can often visualise novel ideas that others might overlook.

Creative problem solving

With their strong ability to think outside the box and natural creativity, dyslexics are excellent problem solvers. They intuitively connect disparate pieces of information, enabling them to find solutions quickly and efficiently. As leaders of dyslexic individuals however, it is important to understand that because their thought processes are so rapid, they may sometimes appear abrupt or disjointed in their explanations, which can lead to misunderstandings. But when their contributions are valued and understood, those with dyslexia can drive highly creative, forward-thinking solutions.

High emotional intelligence

One of the most striking strengths of dyslexic thinkers is their ability to pick up on emotional cues. Often highly attuned to the emotional states of others, they are sharp interpreters of body language, tone, and facial expressions. This heightened emotional intelligence makes them excellent team players, able to navigate complex social dynamics and support strong collaboration in diverse groups.

Visual and conceptual learning

Many dyslexic individuals prefer to think in pictures rather than words. This visual thinking enables them to grasp complex concepts easily when information is presented visually. Therefore, diagrams, flowcharts, and mind maps can be powerful tools for dyslexics. In a business setting, using visual communication can help dyslexic individuals better understand complex systems and processes, leading to more effective collaboration. And here’s the win-win: this kind of visual, context-first communication isn’t just helpful for dyslexic thinkers, it improves clarity and engagement for everyone on your team. What supports dyslexics benefits everyone!

Adaptability and resilience

Many dyslexics have developed exceptional resilience as a result of navigating educational and workplace environments that weren’t designed for their way of thinking. They are often highly adaptable, learning how to overcome challenges and find workarounds to get the job done. This adaptability can be a significant asset in fast-paced, ever-changing industries, where the ability to pivot quickly and think on one’s feet is crucial.

The challenges dyslexic thinkers face

While dyslexic individuals bring many strengths to the table, like everyone, they also face certain challenges that can hinder their productivity. These challenges include difficulties with short-term memory, sequencing, processing verbal information, and sometimes spelling. Furthermore, traditional education systems and many workplaces are not set up to accommodate the unique needs of dyslexic thinkers, often resulting in feelings of inadequacy or low self-esteem. For example, a dyslexic person may struggle with retaining information after reading a paragraph or following a sequence of steps, particularly if there are no visual aids. This can lead to frustration in environments where quick processing of information is expected. 

Just as it’s important for employers and people leaders to have programmes in place to support the health, safety and wellbeing of their team members, it’s equally as important to ensure all employees, dyslexic or otherwise, have the necessary support and systems, and methods of communication to enable them to contribute fully. 

Leveraging dyslexic strengths to drive innovation

Harnessing the power of dyslexic thinking in your workplace can drive incredible gains in innovation and business outcomes. Here are some ways leaders can enable this:

Create an environment that sets people up to do their best

Creating an environment where everyone feels safe to contribute is the first step to unlocking innovation. This means encouraging diverse thinking and being mindful about the ways you communicate and present information. For example, when starting a project or assigning a task, take the time to lay out the full picture. such as  the purpose behind it, the desired outcome, and an example of what success could look like. Then invite open discussion to explore the bigger picture, how the parts fit together and what could be missing or obstacles.

The ways to communicate with dyslexic individuals are actually the best ways to communicate with all people - as dyslexic individuals prefer to think in pictures, providing clear, visual communication can help them process information more effectively. Use diagrams, charts, and bullet points in presentations, and provide context upfront before diving into the details. Making information clearer is good for everyone.

Offer flexible workarounds

Provide dyslexic employees the tools and flexibility they need to perform their best. For example, using speech-to-text software, allowing extra time for written tasks, or encouraging the use of external aids like ChatGPT for organising and sequencing thoughts can help remove barriers to productivity. These kinds of accommodations remove unnecessary friction. And while you may be providing these tools to support dyslexic individuals, they will boost clarity, productivity, and creativity for the whole team.

Harness their strengths to unlock innovation

There are many ways to overcome the challenges that come with dyslexia, and by doing so, you will unlock some incredible strengths. Innovation thrives when different perspectives come together, so harness their big-picture thinking, problem-solving abilities, and emotional intelligence in team settings. 

Create space to tap into the innovative thinking of your dyslexic team members by drawing out how they approach problem solving. Use open-ended questions like “Tell me more” or “What makes that connect for you?” Be patient with ideas that seem random, give them room to unfold, and circle back later if they disrupt the flow.

Encourage diverse teams, including both neurotypical and neurodivergent individuals, to collaborate on projects. This mix of thinking styles can lead to creative breakthroughs and new solutions to complex problems.

Leverage their emotional intelligence

With their strong emotional awareness and intuitive people skills, your dyslexic team member may be the ideal person you ask for a read on the room during a meeting or presentation - picking up on unspoken cues, shifts in energy, or when something isn’t landing. Their insights can help you adapt your message in real time and better connect with your audience.

Designing for difference benefits everyone

When you design systems, processes, and communication with neurodiversity in mind, you’re not just supporting one group, you’re improving the experience for everyone. Many of the practices that empower dyslexic thinkers also unlock better collaboration, clearer thinking, and more inclusive innovation across your whole team.

From difference to advantage: Unlocking collective potential

As businesses strive to innovate and evolve in an ever-changing world, the workplaces that will thrive are those that embrace the full spectrum of human thinking.

Dyslexic thinking is more than a different way of processing, it's a powerful advantage when recognised and supported. By creating inclusive systems that draw on diverse cognitive strengths, you don’t just unlock the potential of dyslexic individuals - you unleash the full capacity of your team.

Innovation lives in difference. The more you create space for that difference to shine, the more your organisation will grow, adapt, and lead.

Want to bring this mindset into your workplace? The brilliant team at Unlock Innovation can help you engage, inspire, and empower diverse thinkers to spark meaningful change.

And if you’re ready to grow your own leadership capability, our upcoming Masterclass series on Leadership is the perfect place to start.