Here's the truth: you will never 'get rid of' your accent.

This idea, and this language of 'getting rid of' an accent, as though it were something you can just put in the bin and never think of again, is very common among people I work with, and in the discourse about accent reduction online.

The trouble is, it's false advertising. I don't believe it's possible to get rid of an accent, and replace it with a new one.

I do believe it's possible to learn a new accent - and to choose which one you speak with.

You can sound the way you want to sound, when you want to sound that way.

Which is not the same as 'putting on an accent'.

This philosophy underpins my whole approach to the work of accent reduction and to my role as your accent reduction and public speaking coach - not teacher, coach.

Let me explain.

When I tell people that I'm an accent reduction and public speaking coach, their first question is nearly always,

'What sort of people do you coach?'

Over 12 years of doing this, I've worked with hundreds of people; mostly individuals, some in groups.

And I've fielded enquiries from hundreds more who were curious about changing their accents or polishing their speaking skills, but who didn't go on to book a course with me (my door's always open, friends).

Several patterns have emerged - sure, everyone is different, but actually there a few types of people that I meet again and again.

Do any of these sound like you? Or someone you know?

Billy Connolly has probably the most famous Scottish accent is the world (ask your parents, Gen Z) and it's not the mildest accent, by any means. And he was still a global success. Do you have to tone down your accent to get ahead?

If you're reading this, I'm guessing you're a mid-career professional, exploring ways to improve your public speaking or reduce your accent, and you've been thinking about this for a while. You've likely come across many coaching options. How do you decide who to trust with something as personal and impactful as your voice?

Want to improve your speech and reduce your accent? Quick fixes don’t work, but these expert-backed tips will help you speak clearly and confidently. Learn how to practice effectively, refine pronunciation, and develop lasting vocal habits. Whether for public speaking or everyday conversations, these strategies will transform the way you communicate. Start improving your speech today!

Looking in detail at the differences between one speaker and another, with broadly the same accent, reminded me that although RP is its own distinctive accent, it's tempting to observe that no two British English RP speakers sound the same!

Discover how accents impact trust and communication. Learn accent reduction tips for clear British English and professional success in London and beyond

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I’ve recently come back from my first trip to Northern Ireland, and I learned some things about the famous accent… especially when I tried to do it myself…

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