Long-Distance Worklife - A Hybrid & Remote Work Podcast

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Voices of Diversity: Embracing Accents in the Workplace with Heather Hansen

11/14/2023 • 20 min

Heather Hansen, founder of the Global Speech Academy, discusses the issue of accent bias in the workplace and the importance of effective communication in a globalized world. She challenges the notion of "good" and "bad" English, emphasizing that successful communication is about getting the message across, regardless of accent. Heather highlights the need for leaders to understand and address accent bias, as well as the cultural differences that impact communication. She also emphasizes the importance of listening and valuing diverse perspectives. Overall, Heather advocates for a shift in mindset and a more inclusive approach to communication. Key Takeaways 1. Accent bias exists in the workplace and can hinder effective communication. 2. Communication is not a skills problem but involves cultural intelligence and active listening. 3. Non-native English speakers face challenges in a global economy dominated by English speakers. 4. Organizations need to create a culture of acceptance and understanding for diverse communication styles. 5. Accent bias is not limited to non-native speakers and can affect individuals with regional accents within the same country. Timestamps 00:00 Meet Heather Hansen 01:06 Exploring Global Speech Academy's Communication Training 01:54 Rethinking "Bad" English and Accent Bias 03:35 Unveiling Accent Bias in the Workplace 04:22 Diverse Language Experiences: A Personal Journey 06:11 The Realities of Written Accents and Language Prejudices 07:31 Tackling Language Bias in Organizations 08:11 The Role of Accents in Categorization and Discrimination 09:17 Beyond Non-Native Speakers: Accent Bias Affects Everyone 10:25 Beyond Skills Training: Enacting Real Communication Change 10:47 The Overemphasis on Presentation Skills in Communication 11:17 The Pillars of Communication: Culture, Listening, Connection 11:42 Overcoming Communication Barriers: Confidence and Fear of Failure 12:10 Communication: More Than Just Skills 12:26 Questioning Western Communication and Leadership Norms 13:35 Embracing Diverse Communication Styles 15:06 Adapting Speech in Global Contexts 16:15 Navigating the Complexities of Phrasal Verbs 17:19 Confronting Western Bias Against Non-Native English Speakers 18:07 Leadership's Role in Bridging Communication Gaps 19:00 Closing Thoughts Featured Guest Name: Heather Hansen Bio: Heather helps multinational companies enhance collaboration, innovation and inclusion across their global teams through greater understanding and stronger, more efficient communication policies. She focuses on fostering unmuted communication cultures where every voice is heard, resulting in greater inclusion, innovation and efficiency across remote and global teams. Along with private leadership communication coaching, Heather facilitates group training courses and consults on a number of topics related to global communication. Heather is also an External Industry Expert for NUS Business School’s Executive Education programs where she runs modules on communication, presentation, and storytelling skills. Related Episodes Crucial Conversations: Navigating Communication Boundaries in the New Age of Remote Work Attracting and Retaining International Talent with Lona Alia Remote Work for All: How Developing Nations are Embracing New Work Paradigms with Alvaro Daza Remote Works: Managing for Freedom, Flexibility, and Focus with Ali Greene and Tamara Sanderson Additional Resources Check out Heather's book, Unmuted: How to Show Up, Speak Up, and Inspire Action Connect with Heather Hansen on LinkedIn Connect with Heather Hansen on Twitter Check out Heather's YouTube Channel Learn more about Wayne Turmel Email Wayne Turmel Connect with Wayne Turmel on LinkedIn Learn more about Marisa Eikenberry Email Marisa Eikenberry Connect with Marisa Eikenberry on LinkedIn Purchase a copy of The Long-Distance Leader Purchase a copy of The Long-Distance Tea

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