What can I do at work to help someone when they need communication to be clearer?

Short answer

Offer communication choices as part of normal work practice.

What this can look like

Some people use written decisions, agendas or time to think more effectively than fast verbal discussion.

Why it can happen

Written briefs, agendas, time to think, recorded decisions and clear next actions help many people work well. The employee should have choice over what they use.

What might help

Offer formats as normal choices and document key outcomes.

What the research helps explain

Australian autism guidance and research on masking describe meaningful differences in sensory experience, communication, routines, transitions and recovery. At work, person-led, context-aware options can improve access without requiring a person to disclose or be identified as autistic or AuDHD.

What can vary

People differ widely in communication, sensory needs, recovery and preferred support. Similar experiences can have other explanations. Do not infer identity, ask for private information or make adjustments conditional on disclosure.

For this situation

For you, ask what format makes a complex request easiest to act on and use it consistently.

More info and original sources

Poko summarises the relevance of public original sources and links out for anyone who wants to read more.

• National Guideline for assessment and diagnosis of autism — Australian evidence guidance on autism assessment, varied presentation and appropriate limits.
• Autism Support Strategies — Australian public guidance on practical, person-led environmental and communication supports.