Frequently Asked Questions
When we learn a language as adults, we tend to apply the accent/pronunciation rules and patterns from our native language - to our new language - rules that don't always apply. That's why when we learn a new language as an adult we will have an accent. In addition, English is not a phonetic language. This means that there's a difference between how a word is spelled and how it's pronounced. Many non-native English speakers will initially pronounce words in English based on how they are spelled, which further contributes to their speech sounding accented.
Accent coaching with AccentAccuate begins with an accent evaluation, so as to determine how the client's speech is similar - or different from the speech of a native American-English speaker. The evaluation is followed by a series of coaching sessions in which we teach the rules and patterns of American-English accent and pronunciation, so that clients can communicate clearly and with confidence.
Although every client’s goals are different, losing an accent is not necessarily the objective of an accent modification training program. Many people feel their accent is part of their identity, and many native English speakers find a mild accent in others to be charming. The goal in accent modification training is to help clients speak without their accent interfering in their social or professional relationships. Whatever your accent-related goals may be, AccentAccurate can help you achieve them. Your dedication and investment in the coaching process is the key to your success.
Clients who seek accent coaching typically have good knowledge of the English language, but find that their accent is holding them back. AccentAccurate has coached clients whose native language is (Mandarin) Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, Hindi, Urdu, Gujarati, Bengali, Spanish, Portuguese, French, Latvian, Romanian, Polish, Turkish, Greek, and Hebrew
- Begin by asking general and open-ended questions about the person’s experience communicating with English speakers.
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Share a story about someone you know who has benefited from American accent training.
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Offer support: communicating in a language that’s not one’s native language is never easy!
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Be mindful of when and where you bring up the topic. Be sensitive, and respect the other person’s privacy.
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Acknowledge that a referral may not be right for them, but offer to pass on contact information if interested.
Do you think accent coaching may be right for you?
Reach out today to schedule your free accent consultation.