Accent and Name Wahala: Should You Change Your Accent or Name to Fit In Abroad?

Tokunbo Central’s answer: people feel strongly about this, and both sides have reasons.

• Your name is your identity: many people insist colleagues learn to pronounce it, and politely correct them.
• Practical options: some use a shorter version of their own name at work, which can be a middle ground.
• Accent: speaking clearly and at a steady pace matters more than sounding local.
• Know your rights: discrimination based on name or national origin is unlawful in many countries.
• Confidence wins: people who own their name and accent often say it becomes a talking point, not a barrier.

Your turn: have you changed your name or accent at work abroad? Do you regret it?