Is America's Demand for Accent Reduction Unfair?

Globalization has created a unique workforce. Diverse work teams are highly valued. In the US, according to USA Today, the nation’s population will grow by about 130 million people by 2050 and a third of those people will be from somewhere else.

There is a paradox to this high-powered workforce. It has talent pools that yield greater productivity and competitive advantages. However, the population in those pools speaks different languages, creating a severe lack of communication and ultimately affect productivity.

America’s solution to that paradox requires that everyone speak English in the workplace. The logic of “common ground” is acceptable, understandable and should be workable. Nevertheless, another problem exists within that solution. Everyone speaks English, but because it is an acquired language, they speak it with an accent. The new solution is accent reduction.

By definition, accent reduction is “A systematic approach to reducing or eliminating either a regional or foreign accent. This involves changing sound pronunciation (vowels and consonants), parameters of intonation and stress, and rhythm of speech.”

Accent reduction is achieved by assessment; computer based learning systems, interactive software, books, CD ROM and /or private sessions with a Speech/Language Pathologist or Corporate Trainer. The fees and materials are expensive. The minimal time for any improved results is 15 hours of training, with no guarantee that the speaker will be proficient.

A company or corporation generally absorbs the expense of accent reduction training for the office worker, but for many others, it is an unaffordable, out-of- pocket expense.

In addition to adjusting to a new culture and the pressure of performing well on the job, the non-native English speaker is required to re-learn a language that he/she has already learned.

The areas of concern that influence accent-training programs are workplace needs and safety.

Workplace needs:

• Public speaking skills
• Customer service
• Telemarketing
• Consulting
• Teaching/training
• Company image

Safety needs-healthcare facilities:

• Verbal reporting over the telephone in emergency rooms
• Communicating with patients
• Communicating with staff concerning patients

The lack of language proficiency is a billion dollar expense to American businesses and a lack of communication in any business (home or abroad) results in profit loss, which brings us back to the question, “Is America’s demand for accent reduction unfair?”

Thank you for stopping by. Feel free to ask questions (in the comments section) about your adjustment to the American culture. I am available to research and pass on information that will make your transition easier. Facebook me!