Just because I speak with an accent does not mean I think with an accent.

Accent Bias: A Silent Barrier to Opportunity

I recently overheard someone expressing deep frustration with his job search.

His words struck me:

"Just because I speak with an accent does not mean I think with an accent."

I felt the weight of his frustration, and it made me pause.

Listening to his story, I gathered that despite having the right qualifications, skills, and experience, he had been searching for a job for over two years without success. He believed his accent was the main reason he had not been able to get a job.

While I do not know the full details of his journey, one thing is clear: No one should feel that their accent is a barrier to opportunity. Accents reflect our heritage; they are not a measure of intelligence.

The Reality Behind Accent Bias

Research shows that 52% of people from Black and ethnic minority backgrounds have English as their second language. This means their communication may be shaped by their mother tongue. Some choose to refine their intonation or take elocution lessons to adopt a more British-sounding accent.

But what about those who choose not to? Should they be penalised? Should they feel inferior? Should their accent be linked to their intellect? Absolutely not.

A Moment for Reflection

As we celebrate Black History Month, I invite you to reflect on accent bias. Have you experienced it? Perhaps you might have unknowingly contributed to it or overlooked its impact on others? This is our chance to listen, learn, and lead change together.

Navigating Pronunciation with a Non-British Accent

As someone with a non-British accent, I know how difficult it can be to navigate English pronunciation, especially when encountering a word for the first time. Place names like Plaistow, Greenwich, Southwark, and Holborn often defy phonetic logic. Where does the accent go? Which letters are silent?

Some African languages do not follow English syllable structures. In my first language, Krio, for example, the letter “H” is always silent. Therefore, the word house is pronounced as ouse, and hospital becomes ospital. I sometimes feel

a quiet moment of trepidation when I approach an English word that starts with 'H'.

The Yoruba language is another example. As a tonal language, the pitch or tone can change the meaning of a word. "Three" may be pronounced as "tree," and "ship" and "sheep" may sound alike. These linguistic differences can pose real challenges when speaking English.

Imagine how someone who speaks Krio and Yoruba navigates these complexities. Their effort deserves recognition—not dismissal. To truly foster inclusion, we must listen with respect and value every voice and accent.

Tips for Speakers

If you find it challenging to speak confidently with a non-British accent, here are three simple tips:

• Check unfamiliar words: Ask someone, use a dictionary, or try a digital tool to improve your pronunciation.

• Speak slowly: It helps with clarity and builds confidence.

• Own your voice: You already speak two languages—your mother tongue and English. That’s a remarkable achievement.

Tips for Recruiters

Accent bias can be subtle but damaging. Here’s how to be more inclusive:

• Be aware: Accent is not a marker of intelligence.

• Avoid correcting someone mid-sentence: It can be demotivating.

• Watch your body language: Stay neutral and respectful. Do not cringe or react negatively to unfamiliar pronunciation or expressions.

A Final Reflection

Accents carry stories of migration, resilience, and identity.

They deserve respect and not judgment.

Let us challenge our accent biases and create spaces where every voice is heard, valued, and celebrated.