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How can being a highly sensitive person (HSP) at work benefit you? What are the traits of an HSP?
High sensitivity is a genetic trait that enhances how deeply people process information and respond to their environment. Organizations that provide flexible work arrangements and create supportive environments help HSPs thrive while strengthening overall workplace culture and productivity.
Here’s why being an HSP at work can be a superpower rather than a detriment.
Highly Sensitive People at Work
Research shows that one in four employees processes information and responds to their environment more intensely than their colleagues—a trait scientists call high sensitivity. While some may see HSPs at work as a drawback, recent research shows that they can bolster teams.
HSP Research
In 1996, psychologists Elaine and Arthur Aron identified a trait they called sensory processing sensitivity (SPS). People with this trait, known as highly sensitive people (HSPs):
- Process information more deeply.
- React more strongly to emotions.
- Notice subtle environmental changes.
- Become overstimulated more easily than others.
The Arons’ initial research found that roughly one in five people show high sensitivity traits when assessed through standardized questionnaires. Further studies explored the biological basis of this trait, revealing that genetic factors account for 47% of sensitivity variations, with environmental influences determining the remaining 53%. Additional analysis has further validated the genetic basis of sensitivity: Scientists identified specific genetic patterns that predict how strongly people respond to their environment and discovered that identical twins who share these patterns show consistently higher environmental sensitivity.
As research has moved from genetics to real-world implications, recent workplace research suggests the prevalence of high sensitivity may be higher than initially thought, with roughly 26% of working adults qualifying as HSPs—indicating that a substantial portion of the workforce may experience heightened stress levels.
Highly Sensitive Characteristics In her book, The Highly Sensitive Person, Elaine N. Aron details some common traits of HSPs: Deep Processing: According to Aron, being able to process information more deeply means HSPs can often concentrate intensely for long periods of time, especially when they’re in a distraction-free environment. They also tend to engage in metacognition, or thinking about their own thinking and learning. This deeper processing often takes longer than a more shallow level of processing, which can make it seem like HSPs are slower learners than non-HSPs. But once they’ve processed information fully, HSPs usually have a better understanding and better retention of what they’ve learned. Attention to Subtleties: Aron also states that HSPs have a keen eye for subtle details that might go unnoticed by non-HSPs. This usually makes them very good at spotting and avoiding mistakes, and they remember mistakes more clearly so they can spot them more easily in the future. They can also be especially good at tasks requiring high alertness, accuracy, and attention to detail. High Empathy and Emotionality: HSPs also have intense empathy for others, says Aron. This means that they can be deeply affected by the moods and emotions of others, and because of their intuition and eye for detail, they tend to be more aware of these moods and emotions as well. Aron lists some other characteristics that many—but not all—HSPs have: They’re good at fine motor skills. They’re highly creative. They’re morning people. They’re more sensitive to substances like caffeine, alcohol, and medications. |
HSPs in the Workplace
HSPs bring unique capabilities to the workplace that bolster both individual and team performance.
- Quality champions. HSPs pay meticulous attention to detail, have strong ethical principles, and are dedicated to excellence. As a result, they’re thoughtful decision-makers who reduce workplace errors and improve outcomes. Their commitment to high standards and supporting team goals makes them particularly valuable in roles requiring precision and integrity, especially in fields like law enforcement, health care, and business.
- Innovation drivers. HSPs excel at identifying patterns and connecting seemingly unrelated information in vast quantities of information, enabling them to generate innovative solutions others may miss.
- Team builders. HSPs’ supportive nature and ability to validate colleagues strengthens workplace culture.
Maximizing HSP Potential
While HSPs often rank among top workplace performers due to their attention to detail and deep processing abilities, these same traits can make them susceptible to burnout. To effectively support and maximize HSPs’ contributions, experts recommend that organizations take a two-pronged approach:
- Create enriching environments that leverage HSPs’ heightened responsiveness to positive experiences—for instance, through mentorship programs and creative projects.
- Provide targeted support during challenging transitions.
Companies can also implement day-to-day strategies to help HSPs thrive:
- Flexible work arrangements. Remote and hybrid work options can help HSPs effectively manage their stimulation levels.
- Environmental controls. Simple in-office modifications like allowing HSPs to wear noise-canceling headphones, designating “no-meeting” days, and providing quiet spaces with soft lighting can bolster HSPs’ performance.
- Supportive management practices. Giving HSPs advance notice of meetings, additional time to process information, and positive, direct feedback will help HSPs thrive.

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