We think an accent is something to be proud of- at Glu we’re ‘reyt’ proud of our Yorkshire roots. But according to a recent study, not all UK employees feel the same.
According to a survey by telecoms provider 4Com, 44% of British workers are conscious of how the way they speak makes them appear in the workplace, with 28% admitting to altering their speech.
Speaking on the phone was the most common time for feeling conscious, with 27% admitting to altering their accent while on calls, whilst 20% admit to changing their voice during important meetings.
The study indicated that people from the capital are more likely to alter their accent, with 35% of Londoners admitting to doing so, whilst Birmingham-based workers were least likely to do so at 24%.
Reasons for why people changed their accent varied from wanting to sound more educated, professional or of a higher class, to not wanting to stand out from the crowd.
Rob Shaw, Managing Director at Glu Recruit said: “At Glu we’re really proud of our Yorkshire heritage.
“Whether you’re Yorkshire, Brummie or Scouse, Britain is well known for its wide range of regional dialects, and it’s something that should be celebrated, not hidden.
“Employers should also asses why employees feel the need to put on a linguistic front and ensure that they are providing an environment where employees are free to be themselves.”