Tag: work

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.

Quiet Quitting the Next Phase of the Great Resignation

B2 – Upper Intermediate

After the big changes in the job market caused by the Great Resignation, there’s a new thing called ‘Quiet Quitting’ that’s changing how people leave their jobs. Instead of making a big fuss, more and more workers are leaving quietly. This shows that people are thinking more about what really matters to them in their careers.

Watch the video and know why people are leaving quietly and what it means for how people think about work nowadays.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “quiet quitting” mean? “Quiet quitting is a trend that has been dominating social media especially TikTok.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “to go above and beyond” mean? “Quiet quitting is referring to a situation where employees are making a choice to not necessarily go above and beyond what they’re being asked to do.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does ” to stay under the radar” mean? “They are not giving their all anymore, they just stay under the radar.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you think quiet quitting is a legitimate response to dissatisfaction with work or is it an irresponsible way of handling professional relationships? Why?
  2. In your opinion, what factors contribute to the increasing prevalence of quiet quitting in the context of the Great Resignation?
  3. What are some potential consequences of engaging in quiet quitting for both the individual and the organization they are leaving?
  4. What strategies can organizations employ to prevent or address the phenomenon of quiet quitting among their employees?

Habits of People Who Know How to Bring Out the Best in Others 

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?

The Freelance Revolution

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.“

How Long Should You Stay at Your Job?

B2 – Upper Intermediate

You are free to choose how you want to proceed with your career path at any given circumstance. Same way, when it comes how long you decide to stay at a job.

Usually, we stay because our contracts require us to. On the other hand, there are times when we make an effort to assess how our roles within the organization are advancing our careers and not impeding them.

For additional information on how long do we need to stay at our jobs, watch the video below.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “at one’s whim” mean? “I think companies do expect an unrealistic level of loyalty, but, unfortunately where at their whim a lot of times, right?“ Use this expression in your own sentence.
  2. What is the meaning of “management pipeline“? “Companies with strong learning culture see higher rates of retention, more internal mobility, and a healthier management pipeline.” Use it in your own sentence.
  3. What does “goldilocks dynamic” mean? “But there’s also a goldilocks dynamic to this. Sometimes, companies don’t mind turnover.” Construct a sentence with this term.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are reasons listed in the video as to the reasons workers quit their jobs? Based on your personal experience, which ones can you relate to?
  2. What is your opinion on this, “Job switchers increase their salary more quickly than those who stay put.“?
  3. In your opinion, how long should people stay at their jobs?
  4. What do you think about job hopping? Is this a smart move? Why or why not?
  5. On the other hand, share your thoughts on staying at the same job or profession for the rest of your work life.
  6. Discuss your thoughts on this advice, “Don’t focus on money. Focus on skills. And if you are comfortable in the skills that you are acquiring, then you are ready to move on to the next level.“.