Tag: Work and Workplace

B2 – Upper Intermediate

If your resume aligns with current hiring trends, you’re more likely to land interviews. If not, recruiters may overlook it. Experts say three key areas can make your resume more competitive: transformation, artificial intelligence, and availability for on-site work.

Check out the article below for some resume trends to help you get that job interview in the bag.

https://www.fastcompany.com/91270889/3-resume-trends-that-will-help-you-land-an-interview

Vocabulary Questions

1. What does “to weave something into” mean in the sentence, “Finally, weave transformation skills into your résumé’s narrative.”? Use it in a sentence.
2. What does “to hit the ground running” mean in the sentence, “Use your resume to show that you’re ready and willing to hit the ground running.”? Use it in a sentence.
3. What does “to boil down to something” mean in the sentence, “Regardless of your level, you can prove you’re future-ready by talking about what you’ve done with AI. If you can, boil your achievement down to tangible, measurable impacts.“? Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

1. What’s one way you could update your resume to reflect current hiring trends?
2. How do you think AI experience can help job seekers stand out?
3. Would you be open to working on-site more often if it increased job opportunities? Why or why not?
4. The article suggests highlighting transformation efforts on your resume. Have you ever contributed to a big change at work?
5. What’s one skill or experience you’d like to add to your resume this year?

B2 – Upper Intermediate

As remote work and virtual meetings become the norm, digital platforms like Zoom and Microsoft Teams have become indispensable. Yet, face-to-face interactions in business still hold immense value. Traveling for work fosters stronger relationshipIn what ways can exposure to new cultures during business trips enhance personal growth?s, enhances communication, and aids in closing deals. Beyond professional gains, business travel contributes to overall well-being by offering opportunities for personal engagement and exposure to new cultures, promoting both mental and physical health.

Read this article to learn the benefits of business travel.

https://www.gdg.travel/en-us/blog/the-health-benefits-of-business-travel/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Vocabulary Questions:

1. Define “compelling case“. “However, as efficient and convenient as these technologies are, there’s a compelling case for embracing the timeless value of face-to-face interactions—particularly in the context of business travel.” Make a sentence with this.
2. What is a “competitive edge“? “The ability to engage directly with clients, partners, and teams in their own environment often leads to more innovative solutions and a competitive edge in the marketplace.” Use this in a sentence.
3. What does “cultural nuance” mean? “Immersing oneself in a different business environment provides insights into cultural nuances, customer behaviours, and industry trends that are crucial for making informed, strategic decisions.” Make a sentence with this.

Discussion Questions:

1. What are some specific examples of how business travel has helped you build stronger professional relationships?
2. How does exposure to different cultures during business travel impact your perspective on work or personal life?
3. In your opinion, how important is it for companies to continue investing in business travel as a way to maintain employee well-being and team collaboration?
4. Can you think of any challenges that business travelers face in maintaining well-being while on the road?
5. What types of business travel experiences have been the most beneficial for your personal and professional growth?

B2 – Upper Intermediate 

For some time, holding a much coveted a job in Big Tech companies was the envy of everyone. The industry was once even dubbed as “the pinnacle of employment” being renowned for their model work cultures.

Cut to 2025, with increasing layoffs and cutbacks, employees who once strived to land a job in these tech giants do not bear the same enthusiasm as before.

Read this article about how working for Big Tech is losing its once shining star with layoffs and perk cuts here and there.

https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20240207-big-tech-layoffs-perks-cuts

Vocabulary Questions:

1. What does “to test one’s mettle” mean? “Initially, the move went well. Michael says he got to work on high-impact features, testing his mettle against senior developers.” Use this idiom in a sentence.
2. What does the phrase “to come out strong out the gate” mean? “After coming too strong out the gate in 2021, tech companies had to suddenly pull back their recruitment.” Use this expression in a sentence.
3. What is does “the place to be” mean? “I was wowed by the office – it made it feel as though tech was the place to be. It was its fast-paced and innovative nature that stood out most to me: as though I could be part of something new.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use this phrase in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

1. What is causing tech slowdown and industry-wide layoffs?
2. What is your opinion about the decline of Big Tech jobs glamour? Do people have the same sentiments in your country? Explain.
3. Share your thoughts on how “employees who once clamoured to work for Big Tech companies are changing their tunes as layoffs proliferate and perks are cut”.
4. If you worked in this industry, what do you think your next move would be and why?
5. How has the growth of the tech industry in your country been affected by the pandemic? And how is it doing at the moment? 
6. Share your point of view on this statement, “The glory days [of jobs in the tech sector] will be back: a couple of years post-economic downturn and it’ll be back to 2021.”.

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Denmark is often considered as one of the happiest countries, and a big part of this is its impressive work-life balance. The Danish culture puts a strong focus on personal time and family life, offering a work environment that values flexibility and efficiency. This approach has helped the country maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle, allowing its residents to enjoy both their professional and personal lives without compromising one for the other.

Read this article to learn about the secret to Denmark’s happy work-life balance.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c20g7705re3o

Vocabulary Questions:

1. What does “shining example” mean? “Meik Wiking, author of the book The Art of Danish Living, has long regarded his home country as a shining example of what other countries should aspire to mimic with their workplace policies.” Make a sentence with this phrase.
2. Define “to take ownership of something”. “He adds that when staff take ownership of their own space it can help them feel empowered and appreciated, which goes a long way to contributing to a healthy sentiment about their workplace.” Create a sentence with this.
3. What does “aghast” mean? “Mr. Rouchmann adds that the element of trust is so ingrained in Danish culture, visitors to Denmark are often aghast at how far it can go.” Use this word in a sentence and give two synonyms.

Discussion Questions:

1. What is and what are your thoughts on the “three-metre rule”?
2. Share your thoughts on this, “More companies are recognising that well-rested and balanced employees bring fresh ideas, better problem-solving skills, and greater engagement.“.
3. How does the concept of work-life balance in Denmark differ from your country or culture?
4. Do you believe that a flexible work culture could be successful in all countries? Why or why not?
5. What role do government policies play in creating a positive work-life balance for citizens?
6. In what ways can individuals achieve a healthier work-life balance, even if their country or company doesn’t support it as much as Denmark does?

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Teachers play a crucial role in our children’s lives.

They are not just educators, but also mentors, role models, and caregivers. Despite this, many students may see their teachers as the enemy, especially when they receive bad grades or have conflicts in the classroom. However, it is important to remember that teachers have the best interest of their students at heart and are there to support them in their academic and personal development.

Read the article to learn how to be a better parent and maintain a good relationship with your child’s school teachers.

https://edition.cnn.com/2024/11/21/health/parent-teacher-conference-wellness/index.html

Vocabulary Questions:

1. What is the meaning of “laundry list“? “If you’re thinking of marching into your parent-teacher conference with a laundry list of complaints, think twice.” Create a sentence using the phrase.
2. What is the meaning of “to give someone the benefit of the doubt“? “Because she decided to give the teacher the benefit of the doubt, she was able to start the conversation calmly.” Use it in a sentence.
3. What is the meaning of “to talk ill about someone? “This also means that parents shouldn’t criticize a teacher in front of their child. “When you talk ill about a coach or a teacher, what you’re doing is you’re undermining that relationship,” she warned.”  Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

1. What did you learn from this article?
2. Can you describe your relationship with your child/children’s teachers?
3. Do you agree with this, “Parents shouldn’t criticize a teacher in front of their child.“? Explain your stance.
4. Share your thoughts on this, “If parents heed the advice to approach teachers as partners in their children’s success, and treat them with civility and gratitude.”.
5. What is your opinion on this, “Teachers spend a lot of time with their students, so they often have valuable insights to share with parents.“?

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Hopeful job seekers spend countless hours accomplishing online application questionnaires and going through several initial stages of the job application. That is why it is especially discouraging when they don’t hear anything back from the employers. In most cases, this lack of response is due to a competitive talent market. However, new data shows that some of these jobs never existed in the first place.

Let’s read the article and know more about “ghost jobs”.

https://www.cnbc.com/2024/08/22/ghost-jobs-why-fake-job-listings-are-on-the-rise.html?msockid=3e823237b7b86c5f2f8f21e1b6ac6ddf

Vocabulary Questions:

1. What does the phrase “intention behind something” mean? “And whether there is truly a hiring intention behind that from the employer’s point of view.” Use it in your own sentence.
2. Define “tight labor market“. “According to June’s Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey, there are 0.8 unemployed individuals per job opening, indicating a tight labor market.” Use it in a sentence.
3. What is the meaning of the verb “muddying“? “The rise of ghost jobs is muddying the jobs report.” Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.

Discussion Questions:

1. What is your take on companies posting fake job listings?
2. Why do so many companies post ghost jobs?
3. How would you feel if you found out a job you had applied for wasn’t real?
4. How can you spot fake job listings?

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?

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?