communication

I went to my boss last week and told him that I wouldn't mind applying for the position at the front desk. He said, that I might come up on the selection list (Govt.) but wouldn't be selected due to my voice. He also said, go ahead and apply but mentioned finding some thing to help ease the communication. What would you all suggest? This is becoming very frustrating.

Not only that. During the day's of training to be a interpreter for the deaf. I remember one instructor saying I would never be an interpreter. It's true to a point because one must be able to interpret in both languages (voice clarity is a plus). I recieved my certificate not so long ago, but only interpret voice to sign. Meaning I hear the voice/message and relay it in sign.

I fill I'm missing alot in life. Maybe because I focus to much on how my voice sounds and what people will think. I see a speech therapist weekly, but I can't seem to wait. I want my voice back now! The voice is hendering any type of job advancements. I continually challenge my abilities and I know I'm not being fair to my inner self.

Would appreciate any suggestions. Thanks La Rae Adair

Since you are in California (my territory), I'll say a little here and will write you on your e-mail.

This message from you struck a cord and I'm sure it did others also, since virtually all of the people I've met with SD have needed their voices to work in their chosen profession and...having our original voice helps with *life* (relationships outside of work) also. We're a fairly intelligent bunch and SD interfered with our lives and plans.

You used the Subject-Line "communication." Don't forget that there are many ways to communicate, and you have found another powerful community. The Deaf Community. Like you, I've taken classes in ASL over the years (two semesters many years ago at State College) to talk to a deaf employee...and recently, because my voice is so bad. Unfortunately, I have arthritis in my hands now, so that didn't work too well either (funny). But again, I'm reminded that there are many ways to communicate. Voice, facial expression, in writing, etc.

Alot of it is *expectations.* I don't want to be the bearer of bad news but many speech/vocal professionals will tell you that if you really do have SD, your voice will never go back to the original again. Finding a "functional voice" is a really good goal (something akin to your original voice, with Botox or other treatment, but not as good). We discussed that alot at the Michigan Symposium last year.

I'm not going to tell you what to do but an employer is not obligated to accommodate a sub-par voice in "Front Desk" work because *having a beautiful, smoothe, soothing voice* is The Main Criteria for that position. Your employer can legally turn you down based on that. However, you obviously have talent and drive, in getting certified as an ASL interpretor. Don't give up. You have much going for you. Try to focus on more of what you *can* do, as it seems like alot. If you are in a City or County system though, probably best to apply for something wherein *a beautiful, smoothe voice* is not the first item on the Job Description. Seriously, I wrote corporate Job Descriptions for a living so it makes a difference whether *the smoothe voice* is on top of the list or buried in the rest of the JD.

Best of luck,