Tag: Work and Workplace

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?

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? 

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.

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Bringing out the best in others is a multifaceted endeavor that goes beyond mere recognition of their strengths. It involves actively engaging with individuals, delving into their unique experiences, aspirations, and hurdles. This process commences with active listening, where we tune in not just to the words spoken but also to the underlying emotions and motivations. Through empathy and understanding, we can better grasp their needs and desires, fostering a deeper connection and trust.

Moreover, patience plays a pivotal role in this journey. Recognizing that growth takes time and progress may come in incremental steps, we offer unwavering support and encouragement. By setting the bar high yet anchoring it in reality, we inspire individuals to reach for their full potential while providing the requisite guidance and resources to navigate hurdles along the way.

Mentorship emerges as a cornerstone of this approach. By sharing insights, experiences, and lessons learned, mentors steer others on their path to success, imparting both practical advice and emotional bolstering. Celebrating achievements, no matter how modest reinforces progress and instills a sense of pride and accomplishment.

However, the journey to bring out the best in others transcends individual interactions. It entails fostering a culture of collaboration and mutual respect where everyone’s contributions are valued. Recognition for endeavors and achievements, whether through formal accolades or heartfelt words of appreciation, fosters a sense of belonging and motivates individuals to continue striving for excellence.

Continuous learning is another integral component of this process. By encouraging curiosity and providing avenues for personal and professional development, we empower individuals to expand their skills and knowledge, fueling both personal growth and organizational triumph.

Ultimately, by investing in the potential of others and nurturing a supportive community, we cultivate an environment where everyone can thrive. Through collective effort and shared goals, we not only bring out the best in individuals but also harness the power of collaboration to achieve collective success. In this way, each person’s unique talents and contributions meld to create a tapestry of excellence, enriching both the individual and the broader community.

Read the full article to know the habits of leaders who know how to bring out the best in others.

https://www.fastcompany.com/3054826/six-habits-of-people-who-know-how-to-bring-out-the-best-in-others

Vocabulary Questions:

1. What is a “multiplier”? “Multipliers take the time to understand the capabilities of each individual so that they can connect employees with the right people and the right opportunities—thereby building a virtuous cycle of attraction, growth, and opportunity.“? Use this term in a sentence.
2. What does it mean to “stretch goals”? “Stretch goals that push people can have a big impact on how people feel about themselves, their work, and what they can accomplish.”? Use the phrase in a sentence. 
3. What does the word “roadblock” mean in the sentence, “
   As team members earn small wins, their confidence grows and seemingly insurmountable problems appear less daunting, adds Wiseman; roadblocks become interesting puzzles for the team to solve.“? Look for 1-2 synonyms and use ‘roadblock’ in a sentence. 

Discussion Questions:

1. In what ways can patience be considered a pivotal element in the journey of helping others reach their full potential?
2. How does the concept of collective effort and shared goals contribute to achieving success, as described in the passage?
3. Can you identify any personal experiences that resonate with the themes discussed in the passage?
4. Have you ever experienced someone bringing out the best in you? What did they do that made a difference?
5. Can you share a time when you had to exercise patience while supporting someone’s growth or development?

B2 – Upper Intermediate

The freelance revolution is growing fast, with more and more individuals opting to work independently rather than being tied down to traditional employment. This shift in the workforce is driven by a desire for flexibility, autonomy, and the opportunity to pursue one’s passions on their own terms.

As more people realize the benefits of freelancing, we can expect to see an even greater number of individuals joining this revolution in the years to come.

Learn about the benefits of hiring a freelancer for both your company and the freelancer themselves by reading this article.

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/beyond-9-to-5-embracing-freelance-revolution-survive-ice-rosenblatt

Vocabulary Questions:

1. What does “upfront capital requirement” mean? “By hiring freelancers for project-based work, startups can reduce upfront capital requirements and maintain better cash flow.”  Use it in your own sentence.
2. What does “operations at scale” mean? “Meanwhile, SMEs (small and medium enterprises), being essential drivers of the economy, are facing their own set of critical challenges, particularly related to digitalization, operations at scale, and talent acquisition.”  Use it in your own sentence.
3. What does “to run like a well-oiled machine” mean? “Use nifty project management and communications tools to keep things smooth and running like a well-oiled machine.” Use it in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

1. What are your thoughts on freelancing? Have you given thought to becoming a freelancer at all? Why or why not?
2. What are the benefits and downsides to being freelance? And for businesses, hiring freelancers?
3. Aside from the ones mentioned in the article, how else can companies ensure a smooth integration of freelancers into their business?
4. What effects do you think the freelance revolution has/could have on the business sector as a whole/in long-term?
5. Share your insights regarding this, “In the face of ever-changing business conditions, freelancers become instrumental allies for larger companies seeking to maintain their foothold in the global arena.“

B2 – Upper Intermediate

A great place to work is not just defined by its perks and benefits, but by the culture and environment it fosters. When employees feel valued, supported, and respected, they are more likely to be passionate about their work.

Passionate people are driven by a sense of purpose and fulfillment in what they do. They are motivated to go above and beyond because they believe in the mission of their organization and feel connected to their colleagues.

A positive work environment encourages collaboration, creativity, and innovation, leading to higher levels of productivity and success.

See how a workplace can produce passionate individuals by reading this article.

https://www.msn.com/en-ph/news/money/why-a-great-place-to-work-breeds-passionate-people/ar-BB1kaI81?ocid=msedgntp&pc=U531&cvid=0429aa7af9a14ebdae3b98255837e73b&ei=24

Vocabulary Questions:

1. What does the expression “a breeding ground for something” mean? “Imagine a workplace that isn’t just a source of income but a breeding ground for personal growth and fulfillment.” Use this in a sentence.
2. What does the phrase “mid-market business” mean? “Moreover, according to the Women in Business 2024 report, it is imperative to understand the importance of adhering to diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) and environment, social and governance (ESG) strategies as they are currently proven to be very effective among mid-market businesses.” Use this in a sentence.
3. What does “go-beyond mindset” mean? “And by fostering a “go beyond” mindset while maintaining a well-balanced lifestyle, one might achieve such success.” Use this in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

1. How does your company help you discover, pursue, or foster your passions?
2. How important is it for one’s place of employment to value personal development?
3. What is meant by the “go beyond” mindset that was described in the article and how can it be fostered?
4. Share your thoughts on this, “A workplace that values the importance of work-life integration empowers individuals to bring their authentic selves to their roles while concurrently exploring their passions beyond the office walls.“.
5. What makes your company a great place to work?

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Following the pandemic, how we work and travel changed a lot. This sparked the emergence of the “hush trip.” Now, people have the freedom to explore new places for inspiration and productivity, no longer confined to traditional offices.

Read the article to learn about hush trips and their benefits and risks.

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/hush-trip-travel-remote-work_l_65e88e39e4b0c65f1094a5ed

Vocabulary Questions:

1. What does “the fabric of something” mean? “It’s an experience woven into the fabric of the digital nomad and remote worker lifestyle since the dawn of connectivity.” Use this in a sentence.
2. Define “brick-and-mortar” in this context. “But much like the reluctant return to the office post-pandemic, the economics of reverting to the brick-and-mortar grind may prove unpalatable for many.” Make a sentence with this.
3. What does “a passport to something” mean? “It’s a passport to freedom, a chance to roam, explore, and breathe life into both personal and professional endeavors in ways unimaginable within the confines of conventional office culture.” Use this phrase in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

1. What are your thoughts on hush trips?
2. What are the potential drawbacks associated with going on a hush trip?
3. Have you ever been on a hush trip or considered going on one? Why or why not?
4. What are some popular destinations or types of locations that people might choose for their hush trips, and why?
5. Do you think hush trips will continue to gain popularity in the future, and why or why not?

B2 – Upper Intermediate

When you hold a job that’s just alright, it can pose challenges. As time passes, you may become accustomed to the routine, yet advancement in your career remains gradual. This feeling of being at a standstill is known as a ‘job plateau’. It emerges when you start feeling disconnected or uninterested in your job after a while.

Read this article to learn the signs that you’ve hit your ‘job plateau’.

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/job-plateau-career-question_l_65e0dfc9e4b0d2a24758851f

Vocabulary Questions:

1. What does “to hit the job plateau” mean? “Don’t ignore the warnings that you’ve hit your job plateau.” Use this expression in a sentence.
2. What does “to coast along” mean? “That kind of thing can keep you coasting along for a really long time.” Use this phrase in a sentence.
3. What does “to go through the motions” mean? “Oftentimes when people are in a plateau, they’re not really thinking about it. They’re just going through the motions more than anything.” Use this phrase in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

1. Have you experienced a sense of being stuck and unable to advance in your career, similar to what’s known as a job plateau? How did you identify this phase?
2. Despite recognizing the need to leave a job plateau, why do individuals often choose to remain in that state?
3. How do you typically manage feelings of stagnation or monotony in your job, similar to those associated with a job plateau?
4. What criteria do you use to distinguish between a temporary rough patch in your job and a more prolonged period of being in a job plateau?
5. When faced with significant decisions like whether to stay in a job plateau or seek new opportunities, what steps do you take to navigate through the dilemma?