Catégorie : English

How to make a positive first impression

  1. Try to remember people’s names and repeatedly mention their names throughout the conversations
  2. When responding to any questions, try to elaborate, do not answer yes or no
  3. Try to find common ground – common topics (hobby, similar academic background, family activities, related work experiences)

Organizing and delivering a pitch

Organize a presentation in a simple, direct way (The THREE TELLS).

  1. TELL WHAT you are going to say – Introduction
    • grab your audience attention 
    • the goal is that the audience to know what the product is and what they are going to learn about it
  2. TELL MORE – Body
    • the time for details
  3. TELL it AGAIN – Conclusion
    • repeat the main points

The audience is the most important part of the presentation.

How to prepare a job interview

  1. First impressions – Body language – make sure the first impressions are positive by being aware of:
    • posture
    • facial expressions
    • hand gestures
    • tone of voice
  2. Some past tense verbs for the interview
    • prepared, solved, managed, programmed, scheduled
    • worked, helped, increased, coached
    • acted, instructed, expanded, exceeded

Copying or mirroring the body language of people we’re talking to brings us closer to them.

3 types of questions:

  • ability
  • willingness
  • how well you will fit in

Give a direct answer and refer to the actual job.

Tell a story to catch their attention and share a personal experience about you.

A negative can become a positive!

Basics on phone talk

Phone talk still play a vital role in today world work.

Very important to say your name, who you are and the purpose of the call.

Clear introduction and exchange info, no misunderstandings and friendly closings.

Expressions for having a request and to respond to a request:

Q: Could you…?
A: Yes, i’d be happy to.

Q: Do you…?
A: Certainly..

Q: Would you…?
A: Of course..
A: Not at all..

Expressions for clarifying info:

Q: I’am sorry, i missed that. What did you just say?

A: Oh, let me explain.

Q: Excuse me, i didn’t catch what you said. Could you say it again please?

A: I’d be happy to.

Q: Sorry, i am not sure i understand. What does that mean?

A: Certainly, what i mean is…

I’am sorry, i am unable to confirm at this time. I’ll get back to you as soon as i can.

Unfortunately, i’m not able to at this time. Could i call you back?

Sorry, i’m busy right now but will be happy to call you back.

Expressions when closing the call:

When closing the call use a friendly expression.

Thanks so much. I look forward speaking with you again. Goodbye!

It’s been great talking to you. Thank you! Good bye!

I’ve enjoyed that conversation and we’ll talk again soon. Good bye!

 

Basics on meeting online

Online video conferencing  is an important tool for today’s working professionals.

Some basics:

  • spend some time to prepare the meeting and plan what you will say. Practice.
  • respect other participants and watch how long you are speaking
  • turn off your microphone when you are not talking
  • remain attentive
  • don’t forget you are on camera so remain engaged and friendly both while you are speaking and while you are listening

Some expressions for online discussions (agree/disagree, clarify, restate, take a turn, show interest)

  • Yes, i agree.
  • It looks good to me.
  • I think so, too.
  • I definitely agree.
  • I’m afraid i don’t agree.
  • I am sorry, but i don’t agree.
  • That’s interesting, but i’d prefer something different.
  • Actually, i disagree.
  • Excuse me, i didn’t hear that. Could you say it again?
  • Sorry, i missed what you just said. Could you repeat that please?
  • I’m sorry, could you explain that again?
  • Excuse me, could you tell me what that means?
  • Thanks, now i get it
  • Thank you. It’s a lot clearer to me now.
  • I understand…..
  • I see, our first step is to…
  • Excuse, can i say something here?
  • Could i interrupt you for a minute?
  • Sorry to interrupt but i would like to say something here
  • So, what do you think?
  • Can you give me your thoughts on this?
  • Do you agree?
  • What’s your opinion?
  • That’s interesting
  • Really?
  • I see.

You can find more here: Speak English Professionally: In Person, Online & On the Phone.