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Sensory breaks: Your autistic employee may need small breaks so they can have a break from too
many stimuli or seek extra stimuli when necessary.

Sensitivity from other employees: When feasible, other employees may be able to help out their
autistic colleagues. For instance, encouraging other employees to avoid eating strong-smelling foods
outside of the rest areas could be helpful (Greer 2021, p.20-21).

4. Inclusive Management Skills

An Autism friendly environment is not only about providing physical accommodations—it's also

about rethinking leadership practices and creating an environment where autistic individuals can
succeed on their own terms, not just survive in a system designed for others.

While sensory and communication needs are important, effective management goes deeper: it

involves trust-building, individualised motivation, and making space for different forms of contribution
and leadership. In the hospitality industry—where performance is often judged by quick communication,
social ease, and multitasking—this shift in mindset is especially critical.

Here are some key differences between managing a team with autistic employees compared
to a traditional workplace:

Autonomy Over Oversight

Many autistic employees thrive when given clear expectations and the freedom to work
independently—without micromanagement or frequent verbal check-ins. Managers used to a more
hands-on style may need to adjust their approach, shifting toward outcome-based supervision. Trust

and autonomy often lead to greater productivity and lower stress for neurodivergent team members.
Of course this does not mean not providing the necessary support needed.

Adapting Communication Styles

Autistic individuals may have communication preferences that differ from conventional
workplace norms. Some may prefer written communication over verbal instructions, or need more time

to process spoken information. Others may be more direct in their language, or interpret instructions
literally.

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Project Number 2023-1-IT01-KA220-VET-000152721