When You Need to Make Changes at Work

Some people succeed with ADHD at work, others don’t. Career success for individuals with ADHD depends on how well they advocate for themselves. Self-advocacy is the key that unlocks the door to achievement.

If you need to advocate for an accommodation, a change in your workload, or a second chance, think through these questions to help you get what you need.

Ask yourself:

• What is the problem?
• Who can help me formulate a strategy?
• What are three reasonable solutions?
• Who can fix it?

As an adult with ADHD, you are entitled to reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), but nobody can read your mind. Let your supervisors and other helpful people know you are having problems.

[Read: Your Workplace Rights with ADHD]

Write down the objectives of what you want to say. Perhaps write down everything you want to say, word for word. This will keep you focused and clear. Self-advocacy is a jungle, and it is best to have a road map.

If your employer offers a solution that might work, try it. Decide what you need most, and compromise where you can. Have a clear goal in mind and don’t get bogged down in details.

[Read: 5 Rules for Succeeding in the Workplace When You Have ADHD]

You may have to take no for an answer, but you don’t have to give up. Ask why the person said no. Get specific reasons, so you can modify your solutions accordingly and find answers that work for both parties. Ask if there is anyone else you can talk to who may have a different perspective.

Getting belligerent never solves anything. No matter how legitimate your argument is, few people will listen if you sound like you are on TV with Jerry Springer. Be firm, clear, dignified, and concise. Most important, be respectful, even if the person you’re speaking with is not. Do not give anyone ammunition for a personal attack by losing the high ground.

[Read: How to Help Your Boss Help You]

Keep track of dates, times, and outcomes of every interaction you have with your supervisor, co-workers, or HR department that is related to your problem.

Record your meeting for posterity. Suggest to your supervisor that you want to remember everything he or she says, so you would like to record the meeting. This is a great way to keep everybody honest.

Talk to your direct supervisor first. If you don’t get the answer you need, move up the ladder. If you go over someone’s head without giving that person a chance to respond to your problem, it creates mistrust.

If a coworker is not directly involved, or has not suffered and solved his own similar problem, he probably doesn't need to know. Before you confide, ask yourself whether the person would have anything to lose or gain from the solutions to your problem. Those who would benefit will be more willing to help.

The most important element of self-advocacy is “self.” Know your strengths and your needs, and be able to tell the world about them. You are in control of your life. What will you do with it?

[Free Resource: What to Ask Yourself to Find the Perfect Job]