Talking About Hearing Loss At Work

Talking About Hearing Loss: Tips For Having The Conversation At Work

If you have hearing loss, speaking up about it at work can feel intimidating - but it doesn’t have to be. Starting the conversation with your employer or team can lead to fewer misunderstandings, clearer communication, and practical workplace adjustments. In this blog, we’ll talk you through how to approach the conversation with clarity and ease so you can feel more confident and supported in the workplace.

Decide Who To Talk To

You don’t need to share changes to your hearing with everyone. Start by speaking with the person who can best support you. This is often your direct manager or supervisor, a human resources (HR) representative, or workplace wellbeing officer. These people can help you explore options like flexible meeting setups, assistive technology, or changes to your workspace.

Plan What You'd Like To Say

Before having the conversation, take a moment to think about how hearing loss may affect your work and what would make things more manageable. You don’t have to go into medical detail, just focus on the day-to-day impact and what kind of support might help.¹

You could say something like: “I have some hearing loss, and in busy meetings or group settings, I sometimes miss parts of the conversation. I wanted to let you know so we can find ways to communicate more clearly.” 

Choose The Right Time And Setting

Pick a calm time to have the conversation with your manager, team leader or HR contact. 

Try to avoid bringing it up during a stressful moment or in the middle of a team meeting. A one-on-one chat is best as is finding a quiet, private space where you’ll feel comfortable. 

Be Clear About What You Need

Most employers want to support their team, they just don’t know how. You can help by suggesting the things you need to work optimally with hearing loss in the workplace.² This might involve:

• Turning on captions during video calls
• Following up meetings with written summaries
• Allowing you to sit where you can hear best
• Minimising background noise when possible
• Using assistive devices, like amplified headsets or hearing aids

These small changes can make a big difference in your ability to focus, engage and perform well at work. 

Remember You're Not Alone

In Australia, approximately 3.6 million people experience some level of hearing loss.² Protected under workplace health and anti-discrimination laws, employers must make reasonable adjustments for those with hearing loss so you can do your job safely and effectively.³ If you’re unsure about your rights or what support is available, HR or your hearing care provider can guide you. 

Talking about hearing loss isn’t always easy, but it’s a step toward a more inclusive, understanding workplace. With the right approach, you can feel supported, heard, and set up to thrive. Book an appointment at your local Connect Hearing clinic today where our team of experts can help you better understand your hearing and offer advice on how to talk about it with confidence.

References:

1. Australian Government (20 May 2025), Deaf and hard of hearing support at work, Australian Government Job Access, accessed 2 July 2025.
2. Expression Australia (n.d.), Deaf Culture & Communication: A Basic Guide, Expression Australia, accessed 2 July 2025. 
3. Better Health Channel (13 April 2017), Hearing loss - communication in the workplace, Victoria State Government Department of Health, accessed 2 July 2025. 
4. Australian Government (14 May 2024), About Ear Health, Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care, accessed 2 July 2025.