Because hearing loss is sneaky, you may not realize it’s affecting your ability to do your job until the damage is significant.
Think about this: you ask coworkers to repeat themselves often, especially during noisy meetings, and you dread video calls because you can’t make out what everyone is saying.
Those are classic signs of hearing loss in the workplace. But you don’t have to accept that as your reality. It’s possible to manage and navigate those hurdles so you can do your best every day.
Common Hearing Challenges On-the-Job
Struggling to follow conversations: If you’re working in a group setting, it’s common for people to talk over each other. Seating arrangements can also make it difficult for you to isolate a speaker. The louder the conference room or factory floor, the harder it will be to differentiate background noise from important conversations.
Listening to phone and video calls: You won’t be able to rely on visual cues or lip-reading while speaking with someone on the phone. Video calls can cut out or lag, so even if you can see someone’s face, their mouth movement may not match what they’re saying.
Listening fatigue: Your brain works hard to interpret the sounds around you, especially when it’s operating on limited auditory input due to your hearing loss. Straining to hear on the job can leave you feeling mentally drained at the end of the workday.
Hesitating to ask for help: Despite changing attitudes about the stigma surrounding hearing loss, it’s common for many people to still avoid discussing their condition. It’s normal to resist asking someone to speak up or repeat themselves for fear of embarrassment. But doing so won’t do you any favors when it comes to your job performance.
Legal Protections for Hearing Loss in the Workplace
According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), your employer is prohibited from discriminating against you based on your hearing ability. Whether you’re deaf, hard of hearing or have other auditory conditions that impact your ability to work, you’re entitled to “reasonable accommodations” under the law. Knowing what protections you have can help you advocate for your needs with confidence.
If you request assistance, your employer is required to discuss solutions with you. That may include assistive listening devices, procedural adjustments, job duty changes and modified schedules.
Jobsite Accommodations for Hearing Loss
Assistive listening devices: There are various devices that enhance sound quality, so you don’t have to strain to hear while you’re working. Aside from hearing aids, you can use personal amplifiers, streaming technology and handheld and tabletop microphones to cut through background noise. There are also Bluetooth adapters that allow you to send calls from standard landline to your hearing aids. Those devices can support your productivity and safety, whether you’re in an office, on a construction site or inside a warehouse.
Workplace adjustments: These changes could be as simple as requesting a seating change or more hands-on, such as making environmental adjustments to reduce ambient noise.
Written communication: Agendas, instructions and text-based chats can help you follow a conversation. Using those assets reduces the risk of confusion that can make daily tasks a hassle. You’ll also have a reference to use instead of leaning on potentially misheard information.
Captioning devices and services: Real-time captioning and talk-to-text tools are useful during phone and video discussions. That way, you don’t have to worry about missing dialogue.
Modified alert systems: Visual and vibrating alarms are essential for your well-being, so you don’t have to rely solely on auditory cues to know if your surroundings aren’t safe.
Sign language interpreters: A professional interpreter can help you keep up during meetings, remote calls and individual discussions so you don’t have to depend on your lip-reading skills.
Regional services: There are a variety of vocational rehabilitation services for employers and employees. Mason City’s VR area office can provide consultation and accommodation support. CareerForce also offers support for the deaf and hard of hearing in different careers.
How to Talk with Your Employer About Hearing Loss
It can feel daunting to approach your employer about your hearing loss. You may feel vulnerable, defensive or fearful that addressing the topic may affect how your coworkers perceive you. However, change doesn’t come without action, which is why it’s best to be honest about your needs.
These steps can help you lead a productive conversation:
- Plan ahead. Research potential accommodations before you reach out so you can explain exactly what you need.
- Set aside time. Meet one-on-one with your employer in a quiet place to avoid distractions and miscommunications.
- Be honest. Provide your perspective and speak about your personal experiences with hearing loss. That gives your employer context that will help them understand your request.
- Get specific. Tell your boss which listening scenarios are difficult and how your proposed accommodation can help you do your job.
- Present your solutions. Giving your employer options can frame the conversation in a positive, solution-driven light.
- Encourage dialogue. Let your employer know you’re open to questions and alternative solutions if necessary.
- Write a recap. Email or write down a synopsis of your discussion for your employer to document the conversation and further follow-ups.
Learn to Live and Work Well with Hearing Loss
Your hearing loss doesn’t have to dictate your ability to do your job. With the right treatment, you can enjoy your workday and enhance your performance. The audiologists at Hearing Associates are experts at diagnosing and prescribing unique treatments based on your type of hearing loss, lifestyle and preferences. Contact us for more information or request an appointment online.