If English isn’t your native language, chances are you speak with some sort of accents. No matter if you’re from Afghanistan or Mexico, your accent will most likely stand out. Unfortunately, accents can affect job opportunities unless you take control.
Do you know that 8 out of 10 employers admit to discriminating decisions based on an accent? Though discrimination is illegal, everyone has preconceived notions about certain accents.
Here are 3 ways that foreign accents can impact your job opportunities.
1. Stereotypes & Generalizations
We all have different biases. The same stands true for accents.
Some believe that certain accents indicate higher levels of intelligence while others might have an opposite bias.
Though stereotypes are rarely true, we all know how hard it is to break personal bias.
We can’t force others to challenge their personal biases but we can do what is within our control.
2. Limited Job Positions
If you have a strong accent, you may find it harder to qualify for certain jobs.
Positions that require public speaking or verbal communication will be more difficult to land. An employee may seek native English speakers only, which disqualifies you immediately.
Some people find foreign accents difficult to understand. If your dream is to work in communications, you’ll want to work towards minimizing your foreign accent.
Foreign accents can affect job opportunity
3. Proxy for National Origin Discrimination
Some employers inappropriately use someone’s accent as a proxy for other forms of discrimination.
An employer may say that your accent disqualifies you from a job. But he/she may be biased against a specific national origin.
If you believe you’ve been discriminated against, you can contact the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
What Can I Do About My Accent?
Accents can be adjusted and modified for their intended purposes.
Want to lessen your foreign accent? If so, practice is the best thing you can do. To improve your English speaking abilities:
- Watch videos often
- Mimic voices heard on television
- Practice conversing out loud
- Record yourself and compare
- Take an English speech class
- Receive pronunciation feedback and training.
When lessening your accent, don’t lose sight of who you are.
It’s perfectly acceptable to embrace your culture while working to improve your English speaking skills.
Foreign Accents: Wrap-up
As a non-native English speaker, communicating can be frustrating. It’s even worse when you know your accent may be creating a barrier for you in the workplace.
Being unable to communicate with those around you can destroy your confidence. But, there are plenty of resources out there to help you perfect the English language.
At Pronunciation Pro, we help with English fluency and pronunciation. Our 12-module program teaches the rules of English sounds, rhythm, pausing, and more.
Contact us today to learn more about our 7-day free trial offer.