When I've asked to use a tape recorder in a meeting at work, I've always gotten treated negatively (to put it mildly). The first time was with an abusive manager that the entire department had to file a complaint about - I thought using a tape recorder would allow me to get the things he wanted done, after I had time to sort through the negative remarks and see what he really needed from me. He just yelled at me and refused. The next time I suggested it was in a busy software group that did a lot at their meetings, but didn't document well enough for me to keep up. The programmers thought I wasn't smart enough for my role when I suggested recording. I ended up scribbling notes frantically in the meetings, and sending tons of follow up emails afterwards to clear things up.
The hardest part for me working with the 'norms' is that they don't understand the fact that an ADD'r will tend to be more creative, in that we see all sorts of possible outcomes for every situation. We just need help staying on task to get things done the way the group wants it. That's why so many of us end up entrepreneurs, artists, and in any other number of individualist professions.
When I work with a group I keep my admission of ADHD pretty light. It's usually pretty self evident, so I just joke about it, and use it as a way of keeping the group on task. Just point out that the conversation is making your imagination wander, and you'll get someone who will bring everyone back to focus. Keep that person on your good side, and stay on theirs. That's your informal 'job coach'.
As far as the regular accommodations go, I find it helpful to tell my bosses I need things in writing. That way I can keep folders running for each project, and keep tabs on what is expected of me. It gets confusing when people make course changes on the fly and don't write it down for me. So keep an email chain going for stuff, tie that to your documents folders, etc. If you're in a blue collar environment, you can tell them you need a checklist, or at least a notepad, to write down your work assignments. These things don't make you look like you need help, they let your employers see how committed and professional you are.
If you're at a desk and the environment allows it, ask if you can listen to music while you work, or keep some kind of 'white noise' around. I listen to my headphones and tune everyone out.
Also, reminders to keep on task are important. In a lot of programs like Outlook, Mindmanager, etc. you can schedule a reminder to go to a meeting, work on a project, that sort of thing. Something dinging or buzzing every fifteen minutes or so will serve as a reminder to get back on task, too. I've heard there are buzzing watches for that purpose, but I usually set my cellphone to do it, on vibrate mode.
Thanks so much for sharing your personal experiences. I am sorry that so many coworkers and bosses have not understood or provided or allowed ways to help you succeed in your job.
It seems so silly, when a tape recorder can help and eliminate miscommunications, why would someone object?
Thanks again
Eileen
I think the key is finding a balance between disclosure and putting the right foot forward. My strength has always been in my ability to make a good first impression, and my weakness has been trying to keep up appearances for too long. I think we all have to deal with that paradox.
When I admitted to my 'angry' employer I needed help, they assumed it was some sort of ruse. He always thought of me as the cocky young turk (this was years ago), and thought my adhd symptoms were indications of rebellion to his authority. In the software department, well that was just a competitive intellectual environment.
As ADD'rs, our tools need to fit the situation. We're prone to being singled out for our behavior in groups. So finding a way to put a positive spin on things is a plus. I put a mind mapping tool to good use at the software job, for example. Geeks love new software, and even if they didn't take to it immediately, once I used a tool to translate what I was doing into a normal Word document, they liked it. I could splatter ideas all over the screen and then rope them in so they could be placed in a linear framework.
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Hey Eileen,
Your post and article are well-written and informative as always. I must say though, I remain unconvinced that disclosure is a good idea. On the other hand, if these laws are not utilized and tested in the courts, what happens then?
Would I disclose, ever? Perhaps, but only after I'd exhausted all other options, done extensive reading on the subject, and weighed the potential benefits, risks, and outcomes. Then I'd probably have an expert on workplace accommodations review my plan and request before presenting it to my employer. I would also factor into my decision the integrity and competence of my employer and my manager.
That said, remember, there's always the option of a well-prepared and thought out request for accommodation without disclosing a disability.
Grandma Lise