This week Debate Mate celebrates both Dyslexia and Dyspraxia Awareness weeks with this year’s theme being #UniquelyYou and #GetInvolved. This is a fantastic opportunity to reflect on the diverse range of talents and the strengths that everyone brings to the workplace.
At Debate Mate, one of our core focuses, when working to improve professional communication, is to #BePatient. This will particularly hold true when supporting colleagues who have dyslexia and dyspraxia. Around 10% of the population is believed to have dyslexia, and dyspraxia affects around 6%, making their presence in the workplace highly likely.
Dyslexia and Dyspraxia can pose challenges in written and spoken communication. However, it is vital to emphasize that they do not limit the intelligence or creativity of individuals. In fact they often contribute to their strengths and allow them to excel.
So what does #BeingPatient look like ?
👂 Listening actively and attentively.
🖐 Avoiding interruption or completing people’s sentences.
🖋 Allowing room for individuals to make mistakes in written and spoken communication.
👥 Offering support and asking if any assistance may be needed.
So this Dyslexia Awareness week, set yourself a challenge – try one of these tips with your colleagues. Let’s implement patience and foster an environment where every voice is not just heard but valued. This will improve confidence, psychological safety and therefore overall productivity!