New Study: How Accents Are Shaping Customer Service Interactions and Career Opportunities
A new study from
Answering Service Care has found that 1 in 3 Americans believe their accent has impacted their career prompting many to adjust the way they speak in professional environments to improve their chances of success.
The research, which surveyed over 2,000 U.S. adults, sheds light on how accents influence perception in both workplace and customer service settings. Key findings include:
- 13% of Americans adjust their accent at work
- 10% say their accent has limited career opportunities
- 15% have felt judged because of the way they speak
- 23% prefer speaking to a customer service rep with a similar accent
- 36% take pride in their regional or cultural accent yet 64% say they are not proud of theirs
“Accents are everything when it comes to first impressions,” explains voice coach Molly Parker. “Even before we process words, how someone sounds can shape our response to them.”
From a customer service standpoint, the findings are especially relevant. A third of respondents said they feel a stronger connection with Southern accents perceived as the friendliest while Midwestern accents were noted for their neutrality and warmth.
As companies continue to prioritize customer experience, understanding how accents influence trust, relatability, and perception could be key to more meaningful communication.