Accent Modification Can Help You Shed Your Regional Accent

Part of the fun of traveling to different regions is getting to hear new accents. However, accents aren't as appreciated when you have a corporate job or do public speaking. If you have a strong regional accent, you may want to take accent modification classes so you feel more confident in your job. Here are some more reasons to take these classes and what you can expect when you take one.

Why To Consider Taking An Accent Modification Class

If you move to a different region of the country or a new country altogether, you may find people have difficulty understanding your speech. Your accent and pace of speaking may be too difficult for them to follow if you have an accent they are not used to hearing. This can cause problems fitting in and lead you to become isolated. Accent modification can help you lose your accent so you fit in better with your new surroundings.

Accent modification is also useful if you take up public speaking or acting. By removing your accent, more people will be able to understand you and follow your words. This is especially true if you move to a country that speaks a different language. You may know the language well but if you speak it with your regional accent, no one may be able to understand you and your speech might limit your social opportunities and career.

How Accent Modification Can Help You

Accent modification can remove your current accent and help you develop a new one if you prefer. The classes can also remove traces of any accent so your speech is steady and clear, which might be what you want if you have a job in the public eye. This training is offered by a speech pathologist. An accent isn't any form of abnormality or pathology. It is a learned way of speaking that develops among people who live near each other. The first step to changing your accent is to learn how to listen well. When you hear your own voice on a recording, you may be shocked at the sound of your accent because you may not notice it when you speak.

The therapist will have you read and speak normally so your speech cadence, speed, and manner of speaking can be noted. Then your therapist will have you listen to yourself speak while pointing out the things that give your voice an accent. Once you know what you have to change, you'll be taught a different way of saying vowels and consonants. You may also be taught to slow down or speed up your speech. The therapist may have to teach you how to position your mouth and tongue to make the desired sounds. You won't change your habits after one class. Instead, you'll need to undergo a series of training sessions and practice at home until your new speaking patterns become habit and crowd out your old habits.

Regional accents can be endearing, but with people moving all over the world today, accents are losing their charm in the business world. They can also be a hindrance when you can't be easily understood. Taking accent modification classes could make a difference in your career and give you more confidence in your social life.