How Identity Influenced a Development and Communications Manager Career at Groundwork Southcoast
Gianna, a Development & Communications Manager, initially hid their neuroatypicality but found freedom in disclosing their ADHD and other challenges at Groundwork Southcoast, a supportive nonprofit. This transparency allowed for authentic self-expression, leading to improved job satisfaction and a collaborative approach to skill development, as exemplified by their boss's support in building budgets, despite a self-identified "deficit in math."
Neurodiversity in the Workplace, Authenticity and Self-Disclosure, Mentorship and Support, Nonprofit Career Paths, Building Confidence and Overcoming Challenges
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Gianna Sollitto
Development & Communications Manager
Groundwork Southcoast
Bryant University
N/A
Communications
Climate, Environment, Sustainability & Waste Management, Nonprofit, Foundations & Grantmaking
Sales and Client Management
Disabled, Took Out Loans, Worked 20+ Hours in School, LGBTQ
Video Highlights
1. Highlight 1: The interviewee initially chose not to disclose her neuroatypicality in previous jobs due to perceived stigma, but found that being open about it at her current job (Groundwork Southcoast) fostered a more supportive and authentic work environment.
2. Highlight 2: The interviewee emphasizes the importance of carefully considering whether and when to disclose a neuroatypical identity in a professional setting, acknowledging the potential for stigma while also highlighting the benefits of transparency and authenticity.
3. Highlight 3: The interviewee's experience demonstrates how having a supportive mentor or workplace can significantly impact job satisfaction and allow for personal and professional growth, even when facing challenges related to neuroatypicality. She was able to receive support to address her weaknesses and build confidence in areas she initially struggled with (like budgeting).
Transcript
As someone who identifies as neuroatypical, how has that impacted the way you've navigated your career?
For a long time, at every job except the one I have now with Groundwork, I wasn't forthcoming about being neurodivergent. I don't think everyone necessarily has to disclose, but I found solace in owning that part of my identity. I finally have a workplace that truly supports individuality.
They don't just talk about it as a value; they really live it. As someone with ADHD and who is neurodivergent, I never disclosed this before. I would caution anyone who is neurodivergent to strongly consider whether or not to disclose this during the interview process.
I'm not saying one way or the other, but there is still a stigma. Even once you're in a job, there's no guarantee that the stigma won't persist. So, feel it out and try to unmask as much as possible.
No matter what your differing identity might be, try to bring your authentic self and see how it's received. I tested the waters at my current job, and it was scary to say, "Hey, I have ADHD, I have anxiety, and I have a deficit in math, so you might have to check my math twice."
But being forthcoming about that has made a difference. I don't have to pretend I understand budgets perfectly. My boss knows that's not my strong suit, and she's actively helping me build my confidence to create my own budget.
We did that a few weeks ago, and I was really proud of it. Having a mentor or someone in the workplace who you can confide in about this identity is important. It allows you to show up authentically, which I think is really freeing.
It impacts your job satisfaction. Be careful with the stigma that still exists, but in the nonprofit sector, you're likely to find more people who are accepting of differing identities. Gauge whether it's a safe place for you, but you might really find that you can show up as your full self there.
Advizer Personal Links
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/giannasollitto
Twitter: x.com/GiannaSollitto
Instagram: www.instagram.com/giannasollitto/