More than 1.5 billion people in the world speak English, but for the majority of them (including me) English is a second language, therefore we speak with accent.
In one of my previous posts in ‘Neuroscience to the rescue’ series I’ve mentioned, that “stranger – danger” reaction is embedded in our brains as a survival mechanism. We unconsciously biased against people who are not like us, including those who speak differently.
But there is a light at the end of the tunnel. I would say, there is a light throughout the entire tunnel!😁
In latest research conducted in this area, MRI imaging showed how people react when they are spoken to with accent in a neutral/doubtful tone or with confident tone.
The result was: participants trusted much more the statements that were said with confidence, no matter the accent.
TIP OF THE DAY:
1. Be aware that bias towards the accent you have has nothing to do with you as a person.
It is just an ingrained instinct we all have.
2. Speak with confidence and your accent will have no impact.
3. Smile is the best friend of confidence.
