Tag: work

The Importance of Team Building

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Team building can be a demanding and occasionally stressful task for HR professionals, but the investment of time and effort pays off significantly. Why is team building essential, and what is the true return on investment (ROI) of organizing events and activities beyond regular work routines?

Read the article to find out more about the importance of team building.

https://teambuilding.com/blog/team-building-importance

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the adjective “close-knit” mean? “The following are reasons to foster a close-knit relationship among employees.” Give 1 synonym and use it in a sentence.
  2. What does the term “turnover cost” mean? “With fewer employees leaving, you save on turnover costs and valuable time since you do not have to undergo an onboarding process.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does the expression “to pull in the same direction” mean? “Thus, employees can more easily see how their individual efforts fit into the larger organizational mission. This alignment is vital because it ensures that the various teams pull in the same direction.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is your definition of team building, and why do you think it is important in the workplace?
  2. Do you believe team building has a long-term impact on employee performance? Why or why not?
  3. In your opinion, what are the most important benefits of organizing team-building events?
  4. Do you think team building is necessary for all organizations, regardless of their size? Why or why not?

Trends Shaping the Future of Work

B2 – Upper Intermediate

The future of work is being fundamentally transformed by five key trends: globalization, technological innovation, shifting demographics, evolving workplace behaviors, and greater mobility. Each of these factors is driving change in its own way, but what is unprecedented now is how they are converging simultaneously.

Watch this video about the five trends that are challenging everything we know about work.

Vocabulary Questions:

1. What does “tap into” mean? “Organizations can tap into talents anywhere in the world.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘tap into’ in your own sentence.
2. What does the expression “digital native” mean? “Millennials are digital natives that expect and want to work in ways that reflect the year we live in.” Use it in a sentence.
3. What does the term “rethink” mean? “This is forcing organizations to fundamentally rethink and reimagine the way we work technologies.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Is your company keeping up with current employment trends?
  2. How is your company thinking about and planning for the future of work? Elaborate.
  3. How has every aspect of business behavior changed in your country over the years?
  4. Share your insights on this, “In the future of work, technology is the central nervous system of the organization that enables everything else to function.“.
  5. Are there any jobs that you think will not exist in 20 years’ time? What are they?
  6. What impact has migrant labour had on your country in recent years? Would you like to see more or less in future?

The ‘Lucky to Be Here’ Generation Could Learn from Gen Z

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In uncertain times, many adopt a “lucky to be here” mindset, which can undermine our career self-worth and control. While Millennials often settle for less due to hustle culture, Gen Z is redefining job satisfaction with a more balanced approach. By learning from Gen Z, we can better advocate for ourselves and achieve a healthier work-life balance.

Read this article to learn what Gen Z has to teach the ‘Lucky to Be Here’ Generation.

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/lucky-to-be-here-bad-career-advice_l_66a13723e4b0ac6125bcee32

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “over-index” mean? “Most people over-index on insecurity, but there are definitely some folks who swing to the other side of the pendulum a little bit too hard when they’re trying to escape that insecurity and fail to look at their growth area.” Use this in a sentence.
  2. Define “touchstone“. “If you, like me, were a Millennial who grew up watching “The Devil Wears Prada,” then this movie became one of your earliest touchstones of a “lucky to be here” mindset.” Give two synonyms and use “touchstone” in a sentence.
  3. What is the meaning of “to swing to the other side of the pendulum”? “Most people over-index on insecurity, but there are definitely some folks who swing to the other side of the pendulum a little bit too hard when they’re trying to escape that insecurity and fail to look at their growth area.” Make a sentence with this.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What do you think of the “lucky to be here” mindset?
  2. Have you ever felt like you were just “lucky to be here” in your job? How did that mindset affect you?
  3. How did your upbringing or family background influence your views on job security and career advancement?
  4. What aspects of Gen Z’s approach to work do you find inspiring or challenging for your own career?
  5. How can the “heads down, grind it out” attitude lead to burnout and unhealthy loyalty?

Why Does Japan Work So Hard?

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Japanese workers are known for their strong work ethics and dedication to their jobs, often working long hours and rarely taking vacations. This cultural phenomenon can be attributed to a variety of factors that have shaped the country’s labor practices and attitudes towards work.

Japan’s strong work ethics can be attributed to a combination of cultural values, societal expectations, and economic pressures. While this dedication has led to impressive economic growth and technological advancements, it has also raised concerns about work-life balance and employee well-being.

As Japan continues to navigate through these challenges, it will be important for both individuals and policymakers to find ways to promote healthier attitudes towards work while still maintaining the country’s reputation for diligence and work excellence.

wLearn more about why Japanese work so hard by watching the video.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to curb the number” mean? “Japan’s government has considered several initiatives to curb the number of hours spent at the office, including making it mandatory to take at least five vacation days a year and requiring a rest period between the end of one day and the start of another.” Use this term in a sentence.
  2. What does the noun “to put in the hours” mean? “In order to maintain its massive size, Japan needs to put in the hours.” Use this term in a sentence.
  3. What does “to fill in the gap” mean? “So without more immigrants, it’s looking to robotics to fill in the gap.” Use this term in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Why does Japan work so hard?
  2. What are Japan’s work culture problems and what are their solutions to these problems?
  3. Share your thoughts on the culture of overworking.
  4. How does the work culture in your country compare to Japan?
  5. Cite some examples of work culture issues in your country.

Japan Keeps Its Elderly Employed

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Japan’s labor shortage caused by its aging population and declining birth rates has become a pressing issue. To address this challenge, many seniors are stepping into new roles within the workforce. This trend not only helps mitigate the labor gap, but also allows older adults to stay active and engaged in society. The involvement of seniors in various sectors is reshaping Japan’s labor landscape and prompting discussions on the potential benefits and challenges of an aging workforce.

Read this article and also watch the video on how elderly workers help Japanese companies make up for labour shortages.

https://www.dw.com/en/how-japan-keeps-its-elderly-employed-and-active/a-59516633

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “sprightly” mean? “A sprightly and energetic 68-year-old, Atsuko Kasa says she has absolutely no intention of slowing down.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘sprightly’ in your own sentence.
  2. What does the word “silver” mean here, ““However, elderly people today are so much more healthy and energetic than back then, and they simply do not consider themselves to be ‘silver‘.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘silver’ in the same context in your own sentence.
  3. What does “to forgo” mean? “Kasa, who used to work in the accounting department of a cosmetics company, is one of the legions of elderly Japanese citizens who have opted to forgo the traditional retirement hobbies of gardening, get-togethers with friends and looking after the grandchildren.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘to forgo’ in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are your thoughts on “gig work” for pensioners?
  2. What are the main factors contributing to Japan’s labor shortage?
  3. Do you think the integration of seniors into the workforce is a viable long-term solution to Japan’s labor shortage? Why or why not?
  4. How might the presence of seniors in the workforce influence workplace dynamics and intergenerational relationships?
  5. Do you believe there is an age limit beyond which individuals should not be expected to work? Why or why not?
  6. How can society balance the need for seniors in the workforce with the need to provide opportunities for younger workers?

Unhappiness Leave

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Read this article to learn more about the so-called “unhappiness leave”.

Imagine this scenario: rather than being obligated to remain at work when start having work blues, you’re given the freedom to take a day off whenever you’re not feeling your best. This is the idea behind “unhappy leaves”, a new concept gaining attention. It’s a departure from the old belief that work equals fulfilment or satisfaction.

https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/article/2024/may/12/workers-unhappiness-leave-beats-awaydays-work-life-balance-seminars-yoga

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “mealy-mouthed” mean? “That may be a translation quirk – perhaps it sounds as mealy-mouthed as “mental health day” in the original – but the translation still gets to a basic truth: work doesn’t make us happy.” Use this expression in a sentence.
  2. Define “rip-roaring“. “It can be fulfilling, interesting, even important for a few, but it’s rarely a rip-roaring good time.” Make a sentence with this.
  3. What is the meaning of “studded with something“? “There’s the obvious prompt of the 1st – workers’ day, celebrated by not working in all right-thinking places – and the month is studded with days off in mainland Europe, like chocolate chips in your breakfast pastry.” Use this in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. State your stand on this, “If you’re not happy, do not come to work.“.
  2. What do you think about the idea of having “unhappy leave” as a benefit in your workplace?
  3. How do you typically handle days when you’re feeling unhappy or demotivated to work?
  4. In your opinion, what could be benefits and drawbacks of having “unhappy days” in other workplaces?
  5. How do you think cultural attitudes towards work and happiness differ around the world?
  6. If you could implement a new policy or benefit in your workplace to improve well-being and happiness, what would it be?

Selling Yourself

B2 – Upper  Intermediate 

Knowing how to talk about your accomplishments at work is quite the skill to have. This could come handy if you wish to step up the corporate ladder or land that job you are applying for. In some instances, you will have to make the gatekeepers in your workplace to take notice of and come to appreciate your work.

Listen to the audio and read the transcript about selling yourself at work.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/office-english/240325

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to sell yourself” mean? “Now, some people hate saying good things about themselves, so we’ll start with how to talk about your strengths and then we’ll discuss the kinds of questions you might be asked in an interview or by your manager that give you an opportunity to sell yourself.” Use this phrase in a sentence.
  2. What does “to have confidence in someone” mean, “I definitely think it’s important to be able to sell yourself at work, not only for your managers and your bosses and even your colleagues to have confidence in you and your work and what you’re able to produce, but also to give yourself that confidence.” Use this phrase in your own sentence.
  3. What does “appraisal” mean here, “So we’ve got lots of ways to talk about our strengths. But when’s the best time to do it? When we’re in a job interview or an appraisal, sometimes it’s not clear what the best answers are, Phil.”? Use this word in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Why is important to know how to sell yourself?
  2. What might be other situations where this skill would be useful?
  3. Generally, how does talking about your achievements make you feel?
  4. If you are to sell yourself, how would you do it?
  5. Talk about an instance where you had to sell yourself at work. What could you have said differently?

Being a Social Entrepreneur

B2 – Upper Intermediate

The co-founder of B-Lab UK, Charmian Love, shares what she believes are the traits of a true leader. Her leadership tips come from a social entrepreneur perspective.

Watch the video and read the transcript as Charmian Love talks about being a social entrepreneur.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/leadership_shorts/Ep7

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the idiom “to bring to the table” mean in the sentence, “Don’t underestimate what you have to bring to the table!”? Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does the phrase “to step into” mean in the sentence, “Just recognising the really wide and diverse range in which people can step into leadership positions has been one of the joys of my journey.“? Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does the word “self-critical” mean in the sentence, “I think leaders should be very careful to not become so convinced by themselves and their own leadership model that they don’t have the ability to reflect and be, sort of, quite self-critical as needed.”? Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How do you understand the role of social entrepreneurs?
  2. How are social entrepreneurs different from other entrepreneurs? Can you give examples?
  3. What leadership insights have you learned from Charmian Love?
  4. Which leadership traits mentioned in the video do you often see in your company or society?
  5. Do you want to be a social entrepreneur? Why or why not?

More Women Apply for Jobs in Europe

B2 – Upper  Intermediate 

Given the highly competitive job market and very unstable economy across the globe, people, particularly women, are not giving up on trying to find a greener pasture, even extending their job hunting across the pond. 

According to a report by the global recruitment-software platform iCIMS, more female job seekers are applying for jobs in EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) rather than in North America. 

Read the article about this trend among female job hunters to find jobs in Europe.

https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20240401-women-job-applications-europe-vs-north-america

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “in droves” mean? “In a tough job market and tumultuous global economy, women are searching for jobs in droves.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘in droves’ in your own sentence.
  2. What does “playing field” mean in this context, ”Over the years, European employers have recognised the importance of closing their workplace gender gaps and implementing initiatives that focus on equalising the playing field, which has encouraged more women to apply for jobs”? Use this phrase in your own sentence.
  3. What does “overarching” mean? “The overarching biggest factor, however, is the state of the global economy.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘overarching’ in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are the drivers behind the higher volume of female job applications in the EMEA?
  2. What do you think could be consequences of this trend in the long run?
  3. Share your insights on this, “There is a structural necessity for women to participate in the workforce due to the ageing population.”. Do you think the same goes for your country? Talk about it.
  4. How does your country make it easier for younger women to enter the workforce?
  5. In your country, how have the government and employers tried to close workplace gender gaps? 

Waffle House Under Fire for Mandatory Meal Deductions

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Lunch break is a good chance for workers to disconnect from their work while enjoying their meal. Some workers prefer to bring a packed lunch from home while others like to dine out with their colleagues.

This is a break during the workday where workers can relax and decide what they want to do and what they will have for lunch. What if your company imposes what you should eat for lunch and charge you for it regardless if you consume it or not?

Let’s read the article and know more about this unfair long-standing policy that docks Waffle House employees’ paychecks.

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/waffle-house-mandatory-meal-deductions_n_66017bebe4b08460c3e7d35a

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to live paycheck to paycheck” mean? “Many Waffle House workers are living paycheck to paycheck and do not have stable housing and transportation.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does the verb “spearhead” mean? “It formed last year out of the union’s long-running Fight for $15 campaign, which spearheaded fast food strikes and helped spur minimum wage hikes around the country.” Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.
  3. What is the meaning of the idiom “to work for scraps and pennies“? “One employee told the outlet they were working for scraps and pennies.” Use it in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are the details of Waffle House’s mandatory meal deduction policy?
  2. What is your opinion on this clause in the Waffle House manual? “Meals must be consumed at the [restaurant] and no food can be taken home under this meal policy. Any food actually taken home by such an Associate will be considered a ‘To Go’ order and must be paid for at full price.“
  3. Is mandatory meal deduction in restaurant industry allowed in your country? What are the requirements?
  4. What are the working conditions of minimum wage workers in your country?
  5. Share some other ridiculous policies you’ve heard some companies have.