As event professionals, it’s our job to consider that attendees and staff may need different tools, environmental settings and communication styles to be successful. After being presented with the below information about neurodiversity during a recent internal lunch and learn, our team was tasked with reflecting back on past Accent events and brainstorming how we could have made our events more comfortable for neurodiverse attendees.
What did we realize? A high-energy DJ blaring upon entrance, passed drink upon entry, packed (and toasty) pre-function space before doors open and constant stimulation can do more harm than good. By better anticipating and planning for common triggers, we can ensure all guests can access a more comfortable event experience.
COMMON TRIGGERS
The top 5 triggers for those who identify as neurodiverse are:
Crowds: large crowds and navigating tight/overcrowded spaces
Noise: loud, busy or sudden noises
Navigation/Wayfinding: lack of directive or signage can be extremely stressful, causing guests to feel lost and disoriented
Schedule Breaks without Structure/Purpose: leaving too much “break” time without intention or instructions (this fix can be as simple as stating, “use this time as a bio break and to check email, if needed.”)
Lighting/Temperature: rooms that are too cold, too warm or too bright can cause the body to go into flight-or-flight
TAKE ACTION!
Implementing neurodiversity considerations doesn’t have to be a big lift or costly - here are a few ways to make your events more inclusive:
Provide an easily accessible quiet room - this can be as decked out as budget allows for but doesn’t have to be complicated!
Offer resources at registration (fidget toys, ear plugs, sleep masks)
Add auto-captioning in sessions - this can be done relatively inexpensively with AI now!
Call out your neurodiversity efforts early in guest communication so they know what to expect – onsite, be sure to have clear signage and establish a point person or wellness ambassador.
Reduce sensory overload by considering soft/low lighting, temperature adjustments, nature/ASMR noises, building mindfulness breaks into your agenda and reducing alcohol availability on site
As for Team Accent? Understanding that every mind thinks, learns and processes differently, we are committed to being intentional about designing experiences and environments that are flexible and considerate of the needs of our neurodiverse community. We will continue to actively seek ways to support neurodivergent talent, implement thoughtful event design and create inclusive spaces where everyone can fully engage and contribute, including:
Maintaining fully-stocked neurodiversity kits in our office to loan to clients who don’t have the resources to offer them on their own
Offering a complimentary quiet room setup to clients that surpass a certain spend threshold (all they’ll provide is the space and the sign!)
Encouraging our employees to “Work Your Way”, offering flexibility in schedule and environment throughout the work week
When we plan for the unique needs and strengths of the neurodiverse community, event hosts will increase well-being and reduce stress for attendees, ensure best possible engagement and participation at your event and in the long run, impact the attendee’s overall performance as you’ve made them feel seen, heard and valued.