5 Ways Dyslexia Can Be Your Superpower

How to utilise your skills when searching for a job or interviewing

By Ray Baptiste

When you started job hunting, you may have been hesitant about how potential employers might view your dyslexia. It's one of those things that can make you feel self-conscious, like a roadblock that's always waiting to trip you up. But over time, you will come to realise something powerful: your dyslexia isn't a weakness. It's a unique strength that has made you resilient, creative, and adaptable. And as you start to look for new opportunities, you can learn how to embrace dyslexia as your superpower.

Having dyslexia often allows you to see the world from a different angle. I know this is the case as my son has ‘processing of information dyslexia’. While processing information may take longer, he has developed alternative ways of tackling this. This knack for "thinking outside the box" has been a game-changer for his career. Rather than simply following conventional methods, he is used to finding unique solutions to problems. In a job market that values innovation, this mindset is priceless and he has become a natural problem-solver, often coming up with ideas others might overlook because he approaches situations from a fresh perspective.

Why Dyslexia Can Be Your Superpower

1 - Resilience

One of the biggest advantages dyslexia has given him is resilience. Growing up, he faced a lot of challenges, whether it was struggling through a dense textbook or dealing with teachers who didn't fully understand dyslexia. Overcoming these hurdles built a thick skin and a strong work ethic. He knew how to keep pushing, even when things were difficult. When it comes to job searching, a process that can be tough and filled with rejection, that resilience helped him stay motivated and not let setbacks get him down.

2 - Verbal Communication

Interestingly, dyslexia has also sharpened his verbal communication skills, making them stronger, which, in a work setting, translates to being able to connect with others, explain ideas clearly, and build rapport quickly. He has also found that he has been able to  pick up on non-verbal cues and body language, which is a huge advantage during interviews and networking events. Where others might focus on what's being said, he can also tune in to how things are said, which gives him valuable insights into people's reactions and perspectives.

3 - Improved Memory

Another superpower dyslexia has given him is his memory. Since he developed techniques to remember information without relying heavily on written notes, he has become great at recalling details and concepts that matter. Whether it's remembering key points from a meeting, information on a client, or specific goals a team is working toward, he finds that he is able to retain and recall important information that others might forget. This makes him reliable and detail-oriented in a job setting, even if his methods are a bit unconventional.

4 - Emotional intelligence

Thanks to his dyslexia he has also developed a high level of emotional intelligence and empathy, and when he brings this to work place it has made him compassionate and patient, Qualities that help him connect well with others and create a positive, supportive work environment. Having faced challenges that aren't immediately visible, he knows how it feels to be misunderstood or underestimated. Because he understands what it's like to struggle, he is able to see when others need extra support or encouragement, and being able to build strong relationships, has proven invaluable in team settings and client relationships.

5 - Creative flexibility

Dyslexia can make you a pro at working around obstacles, as you are likely to be used to adapting and finding creative workarounds. Whether it's using voice-to-text software, breaking down big projects into manageable parts, or leveraging tools to organise your thoughts. All of this enable you to become skilled at finding the right resources to get the job done efficiently. Employers often value adaptability, and you can bring this skill naturally. Whatever the task, you can be confident that you can find a way to accomplish it, even if the path is unconventional.

So, when you’re on the job hunt, don't see dyslexia as a disadvantage; see it as a differentiator. It's shaped who you are, making you resourceful, resilient, and empathetic. It's helped you develop strengths beyond the usual qualifications listed in a job description. In a world where companies value creativity, adaptability, and problem-solving, your dyslexia is your superpower. It allows you to stand out, bringing unique skills and perspectives that make you a stronger, more capable candidate. And with each job application, you can present dyslexia not as a challenge but as a strength that sets you apart.

Ray Baptiste - With over 30 years of recruitment experience, I’ve helped thousands of mid-career professionals and those over 50 find jobs that match their skills and passions. Whether you're just starting your search or fine-tuning your interview technique, I can provide the guidance you need to succeed.

If you're ready to take control of your job search and land your next role with confidence, I’m here to help. Contact me at ray@aionion.co.uk, or book a coaching session to start your journey toward your ideal career.