Hearing loss can significantly affect your career by hindering work performance, stifling progress, and causing frustration with colleagues. Unfortunately, individuals may not always recognize the signs, and treatment often comes too late. However, hearing aids can be crucial in supporting the well-being, productivity, and happiness of employees with hearing loss.

Challenges people with hearing loss face in the workplace

Hearing loss impacts much more than just communication. Individuals with untreated hearing loss may struggle with:

• Missing important details in meetings or conversations
• Performing below expectations due to missed information
• Losing self-confidence from feeling excluded
• Missing occupational warnings and career development opportunities
• Feeling disrespected due to outdated stigmas

Solutions for hearing loss in the workplace

Navigating the workplace with hearing loss can be tough, but it’s important to advocate for a more inclusive environment. Here are some practical steps you can take:

Create an ideal workspace for hearing loss

Open-plan workspaces can make it hard to separate speech from background noise. Consider requesting a quieter space from your employer or adjusting your hearing aids to reduce background noise. Ask colleagues to speak to you face-to-face for clearer communication.

Upgrade your hearing aids

Look for hearing aids that suit your needs, such as:

• Bluetooth®: Allows for easy adjustments and volume control via a mobile app.
• Noise reduction: Differentiates between speech and background noise, helping you focus on conversations.

Openly communicate about your needs

It’s crucial to communicate with your employer or HR about your hearing loss. Many will be understanding and willing to accommodate. Be clear about how they can support you, such as speaking slower, facing you when talking, or avoiding phone calls when possible.

Everyday tips for better communication

• Check the agenda before meetings to stay prepared.
• Take calls in quiet areas to reduce the need for loud volume.
• Request meeting minutes to review information at your own pace.

Supporting a colleague with hearing loss

If you're working with a colleague who has hearing loss, here are ways to help:

• Be mindful of their struggles and offer support.
• Always get their attention before speaking.
• Use written messages when possible.
• Suggest quieter spaces if the environment is noisy.

The employer’s responsibilities

Employers must create an inclusive environment for employees with hearing loss, including:

• Condemning discrimination.
• Adjusting the workplace to accommodate hearing needs.
• Protecting employees from further hearing damage due to loud noises.

Creating an inclusive workspace

There are several tools that can make the workplace more accessible, such as:

• Induction loop systems: Work with hearing aids to transmit sound directly, bypassing microphones.
• Companion microphones: Allow the wearer to hear clearly from a distance by transmitting sound to their hearing aids.

Although hearing loss presents challenges, open communication and creating an inclusive workplace can foster cooperation and improve productivity. By advocating for the right tools and adjustments, employees with hearing loss can thrive at work.