#9: How to Make Your Business More Accessible (and Why It Benefits Everyone)
If you've ever felt like traditional business structures weren't designed for you, you're not alone. Many of us have spent years adapting to systems that don't take neurodivergence or different processing styles into account. But what if we flipped the script? What if, as business owners, we created something better—something truly inclusive?
In this episode of Just What I Needed, I dive into how you can make your business more accessible, not just because it’s the right thing to do, but because it genuinely enhances the client experience. And spoiler alert: accessibility helps everyone—not just neurodivergent folks.
Small Shifts, Big Impact
One of the first changes I made in my business was rethinking my website. I realized that simply stating information once wasn’t enough. People process information differently, so I started presenting it in multiple formats:
Bullet points to break up dense text
Images with text overlays for visual learners
Videos explaining key details
Pop-ups that help visitors navigate more easily
This approach makes it easier for anyone to find the information they need, without feeling overwhelmed. And guess what? My clients love it.
Asking the Right Questions
Another simple but game-changing shift? Asking about accessibility needs upfront. My intake forms now include a question: Do you or anyone in your party need accommodations? I even provide examples, like wheelchair accessibility, sensory sensitivity, or preferences for standing versus sitting photos.
Why is this so important? Because many neurodivergent individuals are used to being overlooked or feeling like their needs are “too much” to ask for. By simply including this question, you’re telling them: I see you. I want to make this work for you.
Busting the Myth of Professionalism
There’s this outdated belief that accessibility takes away from professionalism. But let’s be real—what’s more professional? A hard-to-navigate website with only one way to interact, or a structured site that offers multiple ways to interact? True professionalism is about clarity and ease, not rigid, outdated norms.
Actionable Steps to Improve Accessibility
Not sure where to start? Here’s a simple checklist to begin implementing accessibility in your business:
✅ Diversify how you present information (text, images, videos, bullet points)
✅ Ask about accessibility needs in intake forms
✅ Make your website easy to navigate (no overwhelming looooong paragraphs!)
✅ Offer multiple ways for clients to communicate (email, text, voice memo options)
✅ Send recaps after meetings so clients don’t have to rely on memory alone
✅ Be flexible with social expectations (some clients may need extra processing time or written instructions)
Pick even one or two of these, and you’re already creating a more inclusive space.
Your Challenge
I want to challenge you to take one action today. Maybe it’s updating your website. Maybe it’s adding an accessibility question to your intake forms. Whatever it is, start small—but start.
If this resonated with you, DM me on Instagram (@MonicaAdalsteinsson) and let me know what step you’re taking. And don’t forget to subscribe—next week, we’re talking about how to accommodate yourself in business, because accessibility isn’t just for clients, it’s for you too.