Project Timeline
Tools
Process
My role
January 2025 - June 2025
User Researcher
UX Designer
Project Manager
Figjam
Figma
Google Forms
Tableau
Initial Stakeholder Meeting
Conducting Mixed Methods Research
Data Analysis
Ideation and Prototyping
Stakeholder Feedback + Presentations
Neurodiversity in the Workplace (NITW) reduces hiring barriers for neurodivergent job seekers by matching them with inclusive employers. However, its passive job-matching process includes long waiting periods without transparent status updates. This creates frustration, missed opportunities, and a sense of isolation — especially for those who value clear communication and support during their job search.
How might we improve the waiting experience for NITW applicants by keeping them informed about their application status to ensure they feel supported, connected, and seen?
Problem Space
Research Methods
We conducted an online survey, user interviews, and competitive analysis to understand the unique needs and pain points of our target user group. We recruited neurodivergent job seekers via the NITW database. Participants had recent job search experience and self-identified as neurodivergent. Survey respondents who indicated that they were interested in a follow-up were invited to interview.
21 survey responses
7 User Interviews
What features do neurodivergent users look for in a job matching service?
How satisfied are neurodivergent job seekers currently with their job searching process?
How are neurodivergent users currently finding job opportunities, and what tools or platforms do they use, if any?
How do current job platforms fail to meet the needs of neurodivergent individuals?
Key Research Questions
2
Research Findings
Not knowing when I'll hear back
8
Not knowing what to do while I wait to hear back
3
Not knowing what my application status is
10
Survey Question:
What is the most frustrating aspect of the job search process for you?
Transparent Status Updates
90% of survey respondents expressed that they want more updates about where they are in the job matching process.
Professional Development
A majority of interviewees and survey respondents indicated that they don't often know what to do while they wait to hear back. Several users emphasized a desire for more professional resources to improve their application materials.
Community
Users expressed feeling isolated in their job search process. They desire community and connection.
"Applying feels like sending my [information] into a black hole."
Market Analysis
We conducted a competitive analysis for Mentra, Equity at Work, and Neurodiversity Career Connector to better understand what solutions currently exist. While NITW only utilized an initial intake form to match candidates, other competitive tools had a more established system where job seekers could view updates.
We designed a dynamic portal where users can create a profile, track their progress in the matching process, and connect with a like-minded community —fostering confidence, belonging, and reducing isolation.
Design Solution — A Job Tracking Portal
Key Features of the Portal:
1
2
3
Professional Resources Dashboard: While waiting to be matched, users can access personalized professional resources tailored to their career stage and industry — offering practical tools and meaningful support. These resources are curated based on the skills and interests highlighted in their profile.
Transparent Status Updates: Users receive clear updates throughout the matching process, reducing uncertainty, and allowing them to clearly see where they stand with potential employers. They can also access a personalized history of their past matches, helping them track their job search journey, and reflect on past opportunities.
Connections with Community: Users can join the NITW Discord server to connect with other job seekers and members in the NITW community.
Low-Fidelity Wireframing
Macbook Pro
Communication from the start: We redesigned the website landing page to guide people to the portal and explain exactly how each step of the matching process works.
Customization of the Portal Dashboard: User fills out a brief profile indicating where they are at with their job search journey— to help customize the portal dashboard resources based on the job seeker's interests.
Project Outcomes + Impact —
Transparent Communication Builds Trust for Neurodivergent Job Seekers
Aligns with their Career Development Goals
Community Aspect Reduces Isolation
Easy and Intuitive
Customizable based on User Needs
Reflections
Integrating stakeholder feedback throughout the design phase helped my team and I iterate on our designs and ideas. We worked closely with our client from NITW to ensure that anything we designed was within the scope of what was feasible for the small team at NITW. This collaboration between the design team and the stakeholders involved allowed us to craft something meaningful that can help neurodivergent job seekers feel more supported, seen, and heard, in their job search process.