Divergent Discussion: When "Performance Issues" Are Actually Access Needs

Hosted by: Tina Mu, Career Coach

📍 Online (virtual event)

🎥 Replay available

A Divergent Discussion with Caitlin Hughes

What if what appears to be a performance issue isn't a performance issue at all?

In many workplaces, challenges such as missed deadlines, inconsistent productivity, communication differences, or difficulties with organisation are quickly viewed as performance concerns. But for many neurodivergent people, these challenges may instead reflect unmet access needs.

When workplaces focus solely on correcting performance without considering the barriers someone may be facing, opportunities for meaningful support can be missed. The result is often frustration for both the employee and the employer and a cycle that doesn't address the underlying issue.

Join us for a Divergent Discussion with Caitlin Hughes as we explore the important distinction between performance issues and access needs, and discuss how this shift in perspective can lead to better outcomes for individuals, teams, and organisations.

Together, we'll explore:

• Why unmet access needs are often mistaken for performance issues

• How workplace expectations can unintentionally create barriers for neurodivergent employees

• The questions managers should be asking before assuming someone is underperforming

• How recognising and addressing access needs can improve both wellbeing and workplace performance

• Practical ways organisations can create environments where employees are supported to succeed

Whether you're a leader, manager, HR professional, clinician, educator, or neurodivergent employee, this discussion will offer practical insights into recognising barriers, responding with curiosity, and creating workplaces where people have equitable opportunities to perform at their best.

Join us as we rethink what performance really means and why meeting access needs is often the key to unlocking it.

🎟️ Register now to join the discussion live or watch the replay via the Kaboose App.