The next interview hosted by John Golden talked with Shell Mendelson. Shell is a career coach with over 30 years of experience. She helps adults with ADHD find work they enjoy and thrive in.
They talked about how hard it can be for people with ADHD in regular jobs. They also shared how companies can help these workers do their best. This post shares the most helpful tips from their chat.
The Struggles of ADHD at Work
Common Problems
Shell said many people with ADHD feel like they don’t fit in. They try to act like everyone else, but it’s tiring. They often feel unappreciated.
The “Career Bubble” Idea
Shell uses something she calls a “career bubble.” It helps people think about what they really want in a job. They don’t worry about what others expect. This way, they can find jobs that match their strengths.
Breaking ADHD Stereotypes
Seeing the Whole Person
Some people think those with ADHD can’t focus or work well. Shell says this isn’t true. With the right support, people with ADHD can be great workers.
Knowing What You Need
A big tip is to speak up about your needs. If you know what helps you focus and do well, you should say so. That way, your job can better support you.
Making Work Better for Everyone
Easy Changes That Help
Shell gave examples of simple ways to make work better:
- Flexible hours – Let people work when they focus best.
- Comfortable clothes – Help people feel relaxed and ready.
- Noise-canceling headphones – Cut out distractions.
New Work Trends
John said more jobs today are remote or hybrid. These flexible setups already help many workers, including those with ADHD. Asking questions and being open at work helps everyone do better.
Be Honest When Applying
Talk Early
Shell said it’s smart to ask about job conditions during interviews. This avoids problems later. It also shows confidence.
Employers Like Prepared People
John said when someone asks about how the job works, it shows they care. It also makes them stand out in a good way.
Work Is Changing
Remote Work Helps
Shell said working from home helps many people with ADHD. They can take breaks when they need to. They can also make a space that works for them.
Flexibility Matters
Both Shell and John agreed: when jobs are more flexible, more people can do well. But it’s key that employers listen and adjust.
Talking About Neurodiversity
You Don’t Have to Disclose ADHD
Shell said you don’t always have to share that you have ADHD. Instead, focus on what helps you do your best. Ask for what you need without giving labels.
Understanding Matters
Shell gave an example. She said it’s like being in a grief group led by someone who never lost anyone. The point? You need people who really get what you’re going through.
Making Smart Job Choices
Say “No” When Needed
John talked about saying a “bad yes” and a “good no.” Sometimes, we say yes to things we don’t want, which can hurt us later. Shell agreed. People with ADHD often say yes to please others.
Feel Free to Say No
Shell said learning to say no can change your life. It keeps you happy and healthy at work.
Final Tips and Tools
Shell’s Program and Book
Shell shared information about her eight-week master class, which helps people with ADHD find good career paths. She also wrote a book called Unlock Your Career Path for adults and teens.
Wrap-Up
John ended the episode by saying that preparing before applying to jobs is smart. Shell’s tips can help workers and bosses. When we understand and support each other, work becomes better for everyone.
Key Takeaway:
People with ADHD have great strengths. They can succeed at work with support, the right tools, and clear communication. Employers who care and listen will benefit too.
Our Host
John is the Amazon bestselling author of Winning the Battle for Sales: Lessons on Closing Every Deal from the World’s Greatest Military Victories and Social Upheaval: How to Win at Social Selling. A globally acknowledged Sales & Marketing thought leader, speaker, and strategist, he has conducted over 1500 video interviews of thought leaders for Sales POP! online sales magazine & YouTube Channel and for audio podcast channels where Sales POP! is rated in the top 2% of most popular shows out of 3,320,580 podcasts globally, ranked by Listen Score. He is CSMO at Pipeliner CRM. In his spare time, John is an avid Martial Artist.
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