Introduction: Taking Control of Your Next Move
Starting a professional job search or planning your next career move can feel overwhelming, especially when navigating it with neurodiversity. You might know what you want (a better job!), but struggle with the how and where to start.
At Diversity Lock, we believe the best strategies start with self-knowledge. Before applying for a single role in West Yorkshire, you need two powerful tools: a clear picture of where you stand today, and a structured plan for where you want to go. This post introduces two models used by top professionals worldwide: the SWOT Analysis and the GROW Model.
Part 1: Finding Your Starting Point with SWOT Analysis
A SWOT Analysis is a simple but powerful framework that helps you assess your current situation, turning self-reflection into actionable data. It helps you recognize that what makes you neurodiverse also gives you unique advantages.
Strengths (Internal & Positive)
These are the internal skills and positive traits that give you an edge. Think about how your neurodiversity contributes to your value.
Example Strengths: Attention to detail (often associated with Autism), Intense focus/Hyperfocus (ADHD/Autism), Creative problem-solving (Dyslexia), Honesty and directness, Complex pattern recognition.
Weaknesses (Internal & Negative)
These are internal traits or habits that might present challenges. The key is to name them so you can manage them.
Example Weaknesses: Difficulty with time management/prioritization, Sensory sensitivities in office environments, Trouble navigating unstructured social settings, Discomfort with small talk.
Opportunities (External & Positive)
These are external factors you can leverage in the market.
Example Opportunities: The Access to Work grant, the high demand for specialist tech skills in West Yorkshire, the local growth of Disability Confident employers, or the chance to use remote/hybrid work policies.
Threats (External & Negative)
These are external factors that could undermine your success.
Example Threats: Recruiters' unconscious bias, Inaccessible application systems (ATS), High competition for entry-level graduate roles, Rigid corporate culture at certain companies.
💡 The Goal: Once you identify your Strengths and Opportunities, you can focus your CV and target your job search. Knowing your Weaknesses and Threats helps you formulate mitigation plans and know which roles/companies to avoid.
Part 2: Mapping Your Goals with the GROW Model
The GROW Model provides a structured way to turn your analysis into a concrete plan, moving you from wishful thinking to proactive steps.
1. Goal: Define Your Destination
Be specific about what you want to achieve. Where do you want to be in 6 months? 1 year?
Ask Yourself: "What specific job title, salary band, and location in West Yorkshire do I want? What does 'success' in that role look and feel like?" (e.g., "Secure a permanent Financial Analyst role in Leeds with a salary above £35k, with guaranteed flexible working.")
2. Reality: Assess Your Current Position
Be honest about your current situation based on your SWOT analysis.
Ask Yourself: "What skills do I already have? What have I tried so far? What is currently stopping me? How does my neurodiversity interact with my current job environment (or lack thereof)?"
3. Options: Explore Your Paths Forward
Brainstorm every possible route to close the gap between your Goal and Reality. Don't judge the ideas—just list them.
Ask Yourself: "What are three different companies I could apply to? What specialized training could I complete? Could I use a temporary contract (or 'temp-to-perm' role) as a stepping stone? Who in my network could help?"
4. Will (or Way Forward): Commit to Action
This is the commitment phase. Select the best options and turn them into concrete, scheduled actions.
Ask Yourself: "What is the first single step I will take, and when will I do it? Who needs to know about my plan (e.g., a mentor, a career coach)? How will I hold myself accountable?" (e.g., "By Friday, I will update my LinkedIn profile using my SWOT Strengths and contact my university's career advisor.")
Start Your Journey Today
Using these two powerful models together creates a resilient foundation for your job search. You have identified your unique value, understood your challenges, and created a structured roadmap to your professional goals. writing here...