Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers!

Browse through our frequently asked questions below.

Why should I choose Voices of the World?

Come to us for detailed, thorough, and effective training programs. With students from 44 different countries, we have the experience and know-how to get you results. We have a wide range of experience with both native and non-native speakers of American English, working on pronunciation, business English, effective speaking style, and high-level interpersonal communication skills.

 

We care about your progress as an effective communicator and will do everything in our power to help you get great results. We don’t beat around the bush and we don’t waste time– we will be direct and clear with you about how to improve.

 

We pride ourselves on our use of highly specific feedback to help you learn new skills as efficiently as possible with the least amount of frustration. Our unique method and materials, along with our proprietary e-learning platform, promote significant, long-lasting change.

What content do your accent reduction courses cover?

Unlike other programs which target only a few sounds, our programs are comprehensive. We help you build a solid understanding of all American English sounds and sound patterns, including stress, linking, and intonation. Establish a strong foundation of knowledge and skill that will allow you to continue your growth after the completion of your course. Our accent reduction courses include feedback and instruction on grammar and vocabulary, working through errors that come up real-time in our sessions.

What results can I expect?

Some programs promise 50% improvement- you will likely find that data supporting 50% improvement is only on single spoken words, meaning one word spoken at a time. We want to see more! At Voices of the World, we carefully craft each program to maximize our students’ success, aiming for improvement of sounds not only in single words, but in sentences and conversational speech.

 

Each learner has a different background and different learning needs. The students who make the most progress are the ones who maintain a consistent training schedule, do their homework activities, and are eager to learn.

What sets your trainers apart?

Jane Rupp, Voices of the World’s founder and owner, is a licensed and certified speech-language pathologist. She also holds undergraduate degrees in French and Linguistics. Through extensive study of students’ pronunciation patterns and learning needs, she developed a propriety training method, training book, and e-learning platform. Accent coaches from around the country now learn from Jane in order to become certified in the Rupp Method.

 

As her business has grown, Jane has carefully selected and trained additional professionals to provide high-quality, in-depth training using the Rupp Method. Jane trains each trainer personally to ensure a solid knowledge base, excellent perception and analysis skills, attention to detail, and effective teaching skills. This training is not only intensive, but extensive, far surpassing any commercially-available training courses or programs for accent trainers. We are proud of our small, cohesive team and the results we see in our students.

Do you have flexible scheduling?

Yes! Individual classes are typically (though not always) scheduled for a recurring day and time from week to week, but may be rescheduled to a different day or time as needed. In addition to flexible scheduling, we also offer night and weekend classes. We will work with you to find a day and time that fits your schedule.

 

We also offer videoconferencing through Skype for those who aren’t able to visit us in our Austin or Dallas office locations.

What does a training session entail?

Our individual training sessions will look different depending on your needs, goals, and type of training. What you can expect is careful observation and analysis by your trainer; thoughtful, specific feedback to help you make real, noticeable changes; and a customized homework plan to maximize your growth in between training sessions.

 

We can give you more specific details once we have learned more about your goals and needs. Reach out to us for a free, no-strings-attached consultation.

How can I approach my company about reimbursement?

Ask your manager about funds available for continuing education and language learning. The best way to start the conversation is by explaining your needs and why you feel you need pronunciation instruction.  Help your manager understand any communication difficulties you currently experience and how accent training could help improve communication with colleagues and customers.

 

Businesses are typically very supportive of their employees’ efforts to improve their communication skills. Better communication skills equal better productivity and greater success for the company as a whole. As such, many companies will reimburse employees for this type of continuing education.

Will insurance cover my training?

We provide speech, pronunciation, language, and communication training for professional and/or personal improvement. Even when provided by a speech-language pathologist, accent reduction training is not a medical or health service and will not be covered by your insurance.

How long will it take to make changes?

You’ll acquire new knowledge and skills in your very first training session. You’ll continue to build and grow your skills over time.

 

The number of hours and sessions required to meet your goals will depend on a variety of factors, including your knowledge/skills at the beginning of your training program, your openness to new ideas and change, and your dedication to practicing in between training sessions.

Do I need communication training?

We believe that everyone can benefit from communication training, though some need it more than others. Communication is such integral component of everything we do, whether we’re communicating with words, body language, or tone. If you came to our site because you feel you might have room for improvement, call us for a free consultation.

 

We work with those who have significant communication difficulty as well as with those who are working to fine-tune and get to the highest level possible.

 

Do people often ask you to repeat yourself? Do you know the vocabulary and grammar of English, but feel less confident in your pronunciation skills? Do you get confused looks when you speak? Do you feel anxious that people might not understand you when you speak over the phone or give a presentation? Do you feel that your speaking skills may be limiting your advancement opportunities? Do you want to make sure your communication skills are a good fit with your career goals? We can help. We love seeing the positive change that communication training can make in expanding your knowledge, skills, and confidence.