Beyond the Twang: Intelligence Knows No Accent
English is undeniably one of the main business languages that connects people from diverse backgrounds. As professionals, our ability to communicate effectively in English is key. However, it is essential for us to recognise and appreciate the rich linguistic diversity of accents that exists within our workplaces, especially when it comes to non-native speakers of English. You’ll be surprised at how often the topic of accents comes up with my coaching clients; from entry level professionals to high-level executives. Many feel judged or overlooked because they don’t have the “right” accent. In meetings where ideas and solutions are discussed, it is not uncommon to encounter colleagues who speak…