Member Article

Dyslexics possess many entrepreneurial traits

We found this particular study very interesting - people with dyslexia have been urged to consider self-employment after a survey found that they tend to be extremely entrepreneurial.

The British Dyslexia Association (BDA) said that dyslexics are particularly suited to business pursuits and tend to display characteristics which are often associated with entrepreneurial success.

Vicki McNicol, development director at the BDA, said: “Many dyslexics still get tarred with the ‘stupid’ brush but the reality is that their creativity, tenacity and ability to think laterally means that they are perfect candidates to run their own business and make it thrive.”

Meanwhile, new research by Business Link London, released last week as part of Dyslexia Awareness Week, found that self-employment is becoming an increasingly attractive prospect for dyslexics.

The study found that while one in 10 people in the UK are living with the condition, many still face prejudice and barriers in the workplace on a daily basis, and 56% of sufferers feel that their employer shows a lack of understanding.

McNicol said: “ With so many dyslexics finding that there is still ignorance and apathy of their condition in the workplace, it’s not surprising that some are choosing to follow in the footsteps of famous sufferers such as Sir Richard Branson and Sir Alan Sugar by becoming their own boss.“

Afsana Shukur, head of diversity and equality at Business Link London, said: “Dyslexics possess many of the characteristics required to run a successful business but they can struggle with some of the key activities such as filling out forms for a loan or writing a business plan. “Our advisers work closely with dyslexic entrepreneurs to ensure that they are put in contact with organisations who can assist them with their business challenges.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .