It’s estimated that up to 15-20% of the population has dyslexia. Dyslexics have issues in the workplace and school because they sometimes have trouble processing information. Tasks that may take someone without dyslexia a few minutes could take them hours or overwhelm them. When it comes to tasks that require explanation information, they may struggle to make it clear, especially when under pressure.
Individuals with dyslexia have more brain activity in the frontal lobe and less in other areas like the parietal and occipital lobes. The parietal lobe controls the word analysis and decoding in the brain. The occipital lobe is responsible for automatically accessing words and fluency in words.
Dyslexics might need to leave their jobs at no fault of their own. Their bosses might not understand and mark them for poor performance. Some might not feel like they have enough confidence to work on tasks that they struggle to process.
Despite certain areas of the brain not activating, other parts activate to “balance” it out. Individuals with dyslexia are skilled in visual processing, reasoning, problem-solving, and creativity.
Dyslexics fit into many different workplaces and career choices. They excel in areas like healthcare, technology, education, and the arts. Many dyslexics are visual thinkers and tend to think outside the box. This makes them the perfect fit for jobs that require creativity. How do know where to look? What jobs best suit dyslexics? Luckily, we answered all this and more!
1. Web Designer
Salary Range: Bottom 25% earn $41,000. Median annual salary $60,202. Top 25% earn $96,500 as of November 2021
Job Growth: 13% by 2030 (faster than average)
Web designers create, code, and make websites for businesses or individuals. They made include certain colors for text, video clips, pictures, graphics, or sounds. They create the layout and design alongside the client. It’s the designer’s job to make sure the website fits the client’s needs but still maintains user-friendliness. They must be well versed in basic programming skills. Dyslexics will be a good fit for this position because of their spatial reasoning and ability to think outside the box.
Skills You May Need:
- Knowledge of programming skills
- Excellent interpersonal skills
- Strong attention to detail
- High creativity
- Strong IT skills
2. Space Scientist
Salary Range: Bottom 10% earn $32,500. Median annual salary $81,119. Top 10% earn $106,000 as of November 2021
Job Growth: 8% (as fast as average)
Space scientists study space itself. They focus on the solar system, galaxies, and analyze data from satellites and probes. These scientists use computer software and electronic equipment to help in analyzing the data. Once they’ve gathered the data, they will use it to compare to existing theories and disprove or prove their existence. Some scientists have a presentation role where they have to create presentations or make technical reports. Dyslexics excel in this role because of the use of their spatial intelligence and logical reasoning.
Skills You May Need:
- Strong written communication skills
- Excellent math, science, and IT skills
- Analytical and critical thinking skills
- Good problem-solving skills
3. Architects
Salary Range: Bottom 10% $36,500,000. Median annual salary $82,499. Top 10% earn $135,000 as of November 2021
Job Growth: 3% by 2030 (slower than average)
Architects are responsible for creating designs of buildings, homes, redevelopments, or alterations. They use their knowledge of construction and strong drawing skills to design buildings. They have to take into consideration of the safety, functionality and meet the aesthetic of the client. Architects don’t just draw up the plans and move to the next client. They’re a part of the construction process until it’s finished. They have to think of budgets, the environment, and client needs. They work with surveyors, construction workers, and engineers. Dyslexics make great architects. They use their spatial intelligence, ability to think outside the box, critical thinking, and imaginative mind to create designs with ease.
Skills You May Need:
- Expert drawing skills
- Strong communication skills
- Teamwork skills
- Excellent analytical and decision-making skills
- High creativity skills
4. Teacher
Salary Range: Bottom 10% earn $14,500. Median annual salary $31,007. Top 10% earn $53,000 as of November 2021
Job Growth: 8% by 2030 (as fast as average)
Teachers develop young minds. They will create a curriculum based on the subject they’re teaching. For example, they may have to explain wars in a child-appropriate manner or teach a niche subject easily. Teachers track their students’ progress and generate reports to parents to let them know where they may need additional help. Teaching requirements vary from state to state. Most places will require a bachelor’s degree and a possible certificate. Check with your state guidelines for more information. Dyslexics make great teachers. They have compassion and understanding for students, especially those who have learning disabilities. Dyslexics can relate to the children and help them overcome their struggles.
Skills You May Need:
- Strong presentation and public speaking skills
- Patience and understanding for students
- Excellent record-keeping skills
- Knowledge of the subject they’re teaching
- IT skills
5. Musician
Salary Range: Bottom 10% earn $29,000. Median annual salary $67,000. Top 10% earn $151,000 as of November 2021
Job Growth: 11% by 2030 (faster than average)
Musicians vary in their abilities. Some may sing, play guitar, drum, or play other instruments. They’re typically trained in a music genre, but many have never received any formal training. Musicians write, record, and perform music. Daily activities include rehearsals, recording, writing lyrics, and performing live for various audiences. Some get the opportunity to perform on Broadway, tv, or radio. Musicians need to have a creative and imaginative mind. Those with dyslexia have an advantage because their brain has a higher activity level in these areas.
Skills You May Need:
- High creativity skills
- Physical stamina required if singing or Broadway
- Teamwork skills
- Excellent public speaking and communication skills
- Time management skills
6. Journalist
Salary Range: Bottom 10% earn $32,000. Median annual salary $52,292. Top 10% earn $83,000 as of November 2021
Job Growth: 6% by 2030 (as fast as average)
A journalist’s job depends on the type of publication they’re working for and their area of expertise. For example, you might work for a large publication and cover news from all over the world. You might have to get on the scene in dangerous areas or investigate crimes. Small-time journalists focus on more news of the area or general reports of big news reports. As a journalist, you’ll gather information, write pieces, and you may have to present them before they’re published. You may think writing and copyediting might be more difficult for a dyslexic. However, they have better narrative reasoning than non-dyslexics. This makes it easier for them to take the data they discovered and turn it into a story.
Skills You May Need:
- Excellent writing skills
- Critical thinking and decision-making skills
- Very meticulous and high attention to detail
- Copywriting and editing skills
7. Construction Worker
Salary Range: Bottom 10% earn $27,500. Median annual salary $33,012. Top 10% earn $42,000 as of November 2021
Job Growth: 5-10% by 2030 (faster than average)
Construction workers work primarily on construction sites. The type of job they do will vary based on the project and experience. They may have to remove debris on the site before, during, and after it’s constructed. Some operate heavy equipment to transport building materials or other items to and from the site. Other workers may focus on unloading and loading the materials. Workers may have to perform duties in poor weather or extreme temperatures. Some dyslexics fair better in jobs where they can combine their athleticism and their reasoning. They can solve complex problems with ease because of the way their brain functions. This is useful on the job where they may need to figure out how to transport materials to tight spaces or quicker ways to complete tasks.
Skills You May Need:
- High attention to detail
- Physical stamina required
- Ability to remain calm
- Strong decision-making skills
- Knowledge of construction equipment helpful but not required
8. Chef
Salary Range: Bottom 10% earn $48,000. Median annual salary $68,871. Top 10% earn $99,000 as of September 2021
Job Growth: 25% by 2030 (much faster than average)
A chef’s job is to create delicious dishes with the help of their crew. It will depend on where you work and if you’re a head chef. However, most chefs create the menu they’ll be cooking. They manage the kitchen and train new cooks to work under them. Chefs will also manage the food inventory and maintain storage standards. Chefs delegate tasks to their kitchen crew. A chef may also have the opportunity to experiment with new ingredients and new dishes. Dyslexics excel where they can use their imaginative minds and charismatic nature. A chef position allows a combination of both with leading a team and creating new recipes.
Skills You May Need:
- Effective verbal communication
- Exceptional organizational skills
- Leadership and teamwork skills
- Physical stamina required
- Time management skills
9. Marketer
Salary Range: Bottom 10% earn $22,000. Median annual salary $35,805. Top 10% earn $67,500 as of November 2021
Job Growth: 10% by 2030 (as fast as average)
Marketers work with companies to create marketing campaigns to get them noticed. The goal is to attract an audience and keep them interested enough to use their website or buy their products. They want to increase the revenue of the business. Markets want to generate a message to the audience about what the business has and what it can do for them. Some marketers work to appeal to a business audience to buy their products. A marketer may conduct research and surveys to see what attracts and holds a customer’s attention. Dyslexics make wonderful marketers. They’re able to get into the minds of consumers and use their creativity to create imaginative campaigns. They also can sympathize with the customer base to make better campaign decisions.
Skills You May Need:
- Strong customer service skills
- Excellent written communication skills
- High creativity skills
- Strong IT skills
- Analytical and problem-solving skills
10. Technical Writer
Salary Range: Bottom 10% earn $30,000. Median annual salary $69,365 Top 10% earn $112,500 as of November 2021
Job Growth: 12% by 2030 (faster as average)
Technical writers typically have experience in a certain subject matter like health, fitness, technology, science, and more. These types of writers focus strictly on the subject matter they’re best in. They might write a “How To” guide, manuals, research papers, or summaries. The writer will typically know the audience they’re writing for. This allows them to either break the subject material down to an easier level of understanding or it’s written in a manner others in the field will understand. Many people believe dyslexics have trouble writing. However, they’re able to conceptualize data in a way non-dyslexics can’t. They also have the advantage of having a more creative brain. They can story-tell much easier even when it’s technical.
Skills You May Need:
- Basic IT skills
- Creative skills
- Excellent written communication skills
- Expert knowledge of the subject matter
- Copywriting and editing skills required
11. Video Editor
Salary Range: Bottom 10% earn $34,000. Median annual salary $47,003. Top 10% earn $68,000 as of November 2021
Job Growth: 29% by 2030 (much faster than average)
Video editors get the footage shot in its raw form. Once they receive it, they take the footage and make the necessary edits to a final copy. Generally, they will receive an outline, script, or shot list. From there, they’re able to assemble the footage to fit the director’s creative vision. In film work, there are many shots completed before the director feels they got the perfect shot. Mistakes may happen too, and a video editor will filter out all the extra takes. For this job, special software is required to make the edits. Video editing allows dyslexics to use their ability to story-tell and creative mind to take on the director’s vision and make it a reality.
Skills You May Need:
- Strong IT skills
- Detail-oriented and decision-making skills
- Video editing software knowledge required
- Effective communication skills
12. Mechanical Engineering Technician
Salary Range: Bottom 10% earn $38,500. Median annual salary $80,598. Top 10% earn $121,000 as of November 2021
Job Growth:7% by 2030 (as fast as average)
Mechanical engineers design and manufacture products. They may make products like batteries or medical equipment. They may have special projects to design that fit into buildings like an elevator. In manufacturing plants, they may design conveyor belts or automated stations. They don’t just design the products they make. Often, they design testing protocols and perform the testing. This job requires love for research, math, and thinking outside the box. Dyslexics excel in this role because of their spatial reasoning, complex problem-solving, and creativity.
Skills You May Need:
- Strong math, IT, and research skills
- High creative skills
- Excellent documentation skills
- Knowledge of CAD software
13. Fashion Designer
Salary Range: Bottom 10% earn $32,320. Median annual salary $74,410. Top 10% earn $130,900 as of March 2021
Job Growth: 0% (little or no change)
A fashion designer designs clothes, shoes, purses, and other clothing-related items. They also assist with the production. Fashion designers typically don’t just randomly create items. Designers look at trends and base their designs on them. Depending on who you work for, you may make haute couture or ready-to-wear clothing. You may have to oversee production too. You’ll carry out fittings, determine the price of items, and assist in the marketing. Networking with vendors, suppliers, and models is a must. For dyslexics, a role that combines their imaginative nature and conversational skills only ensure their success. A fashion designer role can utilize these skills on a daily basis.
Skills You May Need:
- High creativity skills
- Project management skills
- Effective communication and teamwork skills
- Strong time management skills
- Some IT skills required
14. Personal Trainer
Salary Range: Bottom 10% earn $20,500. Median annual salary $48,149. Top 10% earn $64,500 as of November 2021
Job Growth: 39% by 2030 (much faster than average)
Personal trainers create a workout plan for their clients to reach their goals. You will have clients of all backgrounds come to you for help. Your client may be wanting to tone up, lose weight, or gain weight. You will create a plan based on their current fitness level and teach them how to do the exercises. Patience is a must for this position because some clients will need extra help and others may struggle to complete the exercises you assigned. It might also frustrate you if a client misses a goal that was set for them. Many clients will come to you and lack motivation. You can use your creativity skills to spark a new love for exercise. A dyslexic in this role will have high success. They have the ability to empathize and sympathize with their clients to help them reach their goals. They could design a workout program that makes it more fun for clients too.
Skills You May Need:
- Physical stamina required
- Patience with clients at different levels
- Excellent communication skills
- Creativity skills
15. Social Worker
Salary Range: Bottom 10% earn $19,000. Median annual salary $42,064. Top 10% earn $74,000 as of November 2021
Job Growth: 12% by 2030 (faster than average)
Social workers see clients that have been affected by issues of sensitive topics. You’ll speak to clients and gather information about what they’re dealing with. Once you find out, you can begin to help them. You’ll provide them with resources, connect them to counselors, or a doctor. This job may require you to make in-person meetings at their house, speak with them on the phone, or over a video call. Some clients may require frequent visits and follow-ups. Prepare yourself to work with all ages of people from children to the elderly. Becoming a social worker takes a special kind of person. Dyslexics often do well in these types of roles. Their natural ability to empathize and converse with others on a deeper level helps bring forth issues their clients may have.
Skills You May Need:
- Exceptional communication skills
- Strong documentation skills
- Good decision-making skills
- Ability to deal with highly sensitive matters
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are some successful people that have dyslexia?
Many famous and successful people have dyslexia. Some of the most well-known people are Leonardo da Vinci, Carl Jung, Thomas Edison, Daniel Radcliffe, and Whoopi Goldberg.
What are the best work-from-home jobs for dyslexics?
There are many jobs dyslexics can do from the comfort of their homes. Some have made our list like a marketer, technical writer, teacher, and web designer. Others include graphic designers, tutors, and sales or customer service.
Final Thoughts
When you’re dyslexic, it can get overwhelming when you’re assigned a new task or must present your findings. It may make you worry that there’s not a job out there that will be understanding and allow you to take the extra time for higher performance.
As a dyslexic, your brain functions differently than someone who doesn’t have it. This can make tasks harder for you. It doesn’t mean you can’t have a thriving career. You just need to find the best fit for you. Luckily, many jobs exist that you can take where you can use your creative thinking. You don’t need to fear that you can’t obtain gear or get a good job once you graduate.
