By Angela Malagon
Navigating job interviews can be stressful for anyone—but for neurodivergent individuals, the experience may feel especially challenging. From decoding unspoken social cues to managing sensory overload or masking behaviors, the traditional interview process isn’t always designed with neurodiversity in mind.
But here’s the truth: your brain is a strength, not a flaw. You bring unique perspectives, problem-solving abilities, and creative insights that employers need—even if the interview process wasn’t built for you. The good news? With preparation, self-advocacy, and the right strategies, you can show up authentically and confidently.
Here’s how to interview as a neurodivergent candidate—and thrive while doing it.
1. Know Your Strengths and Name Them Clearly
Many neurodivergent individuals struggle with imposter syndrome or downplay their accomplishments. But in an interview, you must be your own advocate.
✅ Prepare a few examples of your strengths—whether that’s attention to detail, pattern recognition, innovative thinking, hyperfocus, or emotional insight.
✅ Practice framing your neurodivergence as an asset to the job. For example:
“Because of my ADHD, I’ve learned to develop strong time-blocking systems that help me manage complex projects across multiple stakeholders.”
2. Ask for Accommodations (If You Need Them)
You have the right to reasonable accommodations in the interview process. Whether it’s receiving questions in advance, turning off your camera during a virtual interview, or interviewing in a quiet space—don’t be afraid to ask.
🔹 You can frame it like this:
“To help me perform at my best, would it be possible to share the interview format or questions ahead of time?”
Remember: requesting accommodations is not asking for special treatment—it’s asking for equity.
3. Practice, but Don’t Over-Mask
Many neurodivergent folks are experts at “masking” to blend in. But constantly suppressing natural behaviors (like fidgeting, scripting responses, avoiding eye contact) can be draining and inauthentic.
👉 Instead, find your middle ground. Practice key talking points, but don’t feel like you have to pretend to be neurotypical. If flapping your hands helps you focus—do it. If maintaining eye contact is difficult, focus on the interviewer’s nose or forehead.
You are not “less professional” for being yourself.
4. Use the STAR Method with a Twist
Structured responses can reduce anxiety and keep you on track. The STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) is a great format, especially when communication is a challenge.
✨ Bonus tip: Have your stories written out or sketched visually beforehand so you can reference them during the interview (if allowed).
5. It’s Okay to Take Notes or Pause
Interviews aren’t speed tests. You can pause. You can say, “Let me take a moment to think about that.” You can even write things down if it helps organize your thoughts.
➡️ Try this:
“Great question—let me take a second to organize my thoughts so I can give a clear answer.”
This shows thoughtfulness and self-awareness—not weakness.
6. Know That Disclosure is a Personal Choice
You are never required to disclose your neurodivergence unless you want to. If you do choose to disclose, try tying it back to your value as a candidate.
Example:
“As someone who’s autistic, I tend to thrive in environments that are detail-oriented and structured. That’s why I was drawn to this role.”
Only disclose if it feels empowering or necessary—not out of obligation.
7. Decompress Afterwards
Neurodivergent brains often need extra recovery time after social interactions. Interviews can be overstimulating, emotionally taxing, and mentally exhausting.
🧠 Afterward, give yourself time to decompress. Take a walk. Do something grounding. Be kind to yourself.
8. Reframe Rejection
If you don’t get the job, it’s not because you’re “too much” or “not enough.” Interviews are often biased toward neurotypical communication styles, and the process is flawed—not you.
🔄 Rejection isn’t a reflection of your worth. It’s redirection. You deserve a workplace that values who you are, not just how well you interview.
Final Thought: You’re Not Alone
More companies are waking up to the value of neurodiverse talent. You are part of a powerful community—of thinkers, dreamers, builders, analysts, creatives, and truth-tellers.
Keep showing up. Keep advocating. And remember: the right role won’t require you to hide who you are.
🔁 Share This With Someone Who Needs It
Whether you’re autistic, ADHD, dyslexic, or otherwise neuro-spicy, the world needs your mind—just as it is.
Angela Malagon 