Welcome to this one-on-one podcast. Numbers are and always will be one of those topics with limited online materials.
Welcome to this one-on-one podcast. Numbers are and always will be one of those topics with limited online materials.
Numbers Podcast
One2one Academy: Work smarter, not harder.
– One2one
Welcome to this one-on-one podcast. Numbers are and always will be one of those topics with limited online materials.
This is one of the main reasons I wanted to provide help, which I hope you will find valuable if you are preparing for an English exam.
Before I begin, let me explain the format. I will read sentences in a similar style to the IELTS listening exam format. The task is simple: listen and write down the numbers you hear.
I have provided the text on our blog to simplify this task, so you only have to fill in the missing numbers.
I will also provide the answers so you can check your work. There will be more recordings, which will be premium, coming soon and exclusively available on Spotify. This may suit students needing more practice with numbers to prepare for an exam.
Technology
Numbers can be a challenging topic. Not all of us are interested in learning about a subject which, for the better part, was replaced by technology.
In recent press coverage, one article suggested that a digital currency would eventually find its place in society. So, it’s no wonder that children can no longer count. Evidence suggests that simple maths is a diminishing skill base for entering the workforce.
English language exam boards, consequently, test a candidate’s ability to understand how numbers are applied in money, dates, and time structures.
In this podcast, I will show how they use numbers in listening tasks, specifically with the IELTS exam board.
I appreciate that there are limited resources online on this topic. I hope you enjoy this podcast as much as I did recording it.
Task
So, let’s begin:
1- The next train departs from platform _ at _ _ :_ _ am.
2- My contact number is _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ; sorry, I think I made a mistake; it’s _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _.
3- This building was constructed in _ _ _ _ and was restored in _ _ _ _.
4- Will all passengers for flight _ _ _ _ _ departing to Frankfurt, Please proceed to gate number _ _.
5- The deposit for this apartment is £_,_ _ _, and the rent is £_ _ _ per calendar month.
6- Your interview will be on the _th of July at _ :_ _ pm.
7- The address is House number _ _ St Martins Close, Kensington, _ _ _ _ _ _.
8- Place the fish in the oven and set the temperature to _ _ _ degrees.
9- I bought a copy of a new thriller called Empowered. It’s number _ on the UK best-sellers list. It was _ _% cheaper online. The paperback version cost me £_._ _.
10- The starting salary for this position is £_ _, _ _ _ per annum. If you decide to accept it, the start date is on the _ _th of September. You should note that there is a _ month notice period.
Unfortunately, that’s all the time we have for today; please remember to like, share, and comment. Good luck with this task and see you next time, bye for now.
This podcast was written and produced exclusively for One2one Academy and the presenter was Sanj Saigal.
Organisations may want to implement a four-day workweek to enhance employee well-being, attract talent, reduce environmental impact, and foster a more creative and productive work environment.
A reduced workweek can have positive environmental impacts. With fewer commuting days, there is a potential reduction in traffic congestion and carbon emissions. This aligns with organisations’ efforts to promote sustainability and reduce their carbon footprint.
Organisations may consider implementing a four-day workweek for several reasons. One of the main reasons is to improve employee productivity and morale. Giving employees an extra day off gives them more time to rest, recharge, and take care of personal responsibilities. This can lead to increased job satisfaction, reduced burnout, and ultimately, higher productivity levels when employees work.
Additionally, a shorter workweek can attract and retain top talent. In today’s competitive job market, offering a four-day workweek can be an attractive perk that sets organisations apart. It can also contribute to a better work-life balance, allowing employees to spend more time with their families, pursue personal interests, and have a healthier overall well-being.
A reduced workweek can have positive environmental impacts. With fewer commuting days, there is a potential reduction in traffic congestion and carbon emissions. This aligns with organisations’ efforts to promote sustainability and reduce their carbon footprint.
It can promote creativity and innovation. An extra day off can give employees more time for hobbies, side projects, or to relax. This free time can stimulate creativity, allowing individuals to approach their work with fresh perspectives and generate innovative ideas.
Debate statements
1. Pro: A four-day workweek enhances work-life balance and improves employee well-being. By giving employees an extra day off, they have more time to rest, spend time with family, pursue hobbies, and take care of personal responsibilities. This can reduce stress, increase job satisfaction, and improve mental and physical health.
2. Con: Implementing a four-day workweek may disrupt business operations and productivity. With fewer workdays, there might be challenges in meeting deadlines and maintaining consistent customer service. It could also lead to increased workload and stress for employees who have to accomplish the same amount of work in a shorter timeframe.
3. Pro: A shorter workweek can increase employee productivity. With a compressed schedule, employees may feel a sense of urgency to complete their tasks efficiently. This can lead to better time management skills, increased focus, and higher productivity during the limited workdays.
Pros and cons
4. Con: A four-day workweek could reduce employee earnings. If the hours worked are reduced, employees may face a decrease in their salary or benefits. This financial impact could be a significant concern for those who rely on their income to cover expenses or support their families.
5. Pro: A four-day workweek can create a more sustainable future. With one less day of commuting, there is a potential reduction in traffic congestion and carbon emissions. This aligns with organisations’ efforts to promote environmental sustainability and reduce their carbon footprint.
6. Con: A shorter workweek may only be feasible for some industries or job roles. Specific industries, such as healthcare or emergency services, require round-the-clock staffing and cannot afford to reduce working hours. Additionally, some job roles may require employees to be regularly available for client or customer needs, making implementing a compressed schedule challenging.
7. Pro: A four-day workweek can attract and retain top talent. With a shorter workweek, organisations can offer a unique and attractive benefit that sets them apart from competitors. This can help recruit highly skilled individuals and retain experienced employees, leading to a more talented and dedicated workforce.
Business Costs
8. Con: Implementing a four-day workweek may require additional business costs. For example, the same amount of work needs to be completed in fewer days. In that case, organisations may need to hire other staff or invest in automation technology to maintain productivity. This can result in increased expenses for the company.
9. Pro: A shorter workweek can foster a culture of innovation and creativity. With an extra day off, employees have more time for personal pursuits and hobbies, which can stimulate their creativity and bring fresh ideas to the workplace. This can lead to innovation, problem-solving, and improved business outcomes.
10. Con: A four-day workweek may create scheduling and coordination issues. Aligning meetings, collaborations, and client interactions can be difficult if employees have different schedules. This can lead to inefficiencies and communication gaps, hindering productivity and teamwork.
11. Pro: A four-day workweek can have positive environmental impacts. With less time spent commuting, there can be a reduction in fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, organisations can save on energy costs by operating their facilities for fewer days, contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.
12. Con: Some argue that a four-day workweek may result in longer working hours on the remaining days. Employees might need to work longer hours to compensate for the reduced workweek, leading to potential burnout and work-life imbalance. Ensuring the workload is appropriately distributed and managed is essential to avoid this potential downside.
Cultural, economic, and legislative factors
Several countries have experimented with or implemented a four-day workweek to varying degrees. Here are a few examples:
1. New Zealand: In 2020, New Zealand’s Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern suggested exploring the possibility of a four-day workweek as a way to boost tourism and domestic spending, especially to encourage more travel within the country.
2. Spain: In 2021, Spain launched a pilot project called the “Momentum for Spain” initiative, which aimed to test a four-day workweek without a decrease in pay. The project involved 200 participating companies across the country.
3. Iceland: In recent years, Iceland has been at the forefront of implementing shorter workweeks. In a trial conducted between 2015 and 2019, some Icelandic workplaces shifted from a five-day to a four-day workweek with no reduction in pay. The results showed improved work-life balance, increased productivity, and employee satisfaction.
4. Japan: Some companies in Japan have adopted a “Premium Friday” policy, which encourages employees to leave work early on the last Friday of each month to promote work-life balance and boost consumer spending.
5. Germany: There have been discussions in Germany about the possibility of introducing a four-day workweek. Some companies have implemented it voluntarily, believing it improves employee well-being and productivity.
Death of the Flexible Workspace
WeWork, a company that provides shared office spaces, faced financial difficulties due to multiple factors. One of the main reasons for their financial struggles was their rapid expansion and aggressive spending. They leased or bought expensive properties worldwide without having enough members to fill them. This led to a significant increase in their operating costs and debt.
Their business model relies heavily on long-term leases with landlords while offering short-term rental agreements to their members. This created a potential risk during economic downturns or periods of low demand when they couldn’t quickly fill the spaces or cover their expenses.
WeWork’s corporate governance and leadership also faced scrutiny. Concerns about the company’s leadership style, conflicts of interest, and lack of transparency further impacted investor confidence.
Ultimately, these factors, along with the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, made it challenging for WeWork to sustain its operations and meet its financial obligations, leading to the company filing for bankruptcy.
Some students assume that Business English is a different language. It seems frustrating at the best of times that after passing exams, integration into a work environment is challenging.
Simply put, there are three main considerations: high, medium, and low, otherwise known as Very formal, semi-formal, and casual. The type of organisation that you work for depicts the business tone.
Some students assume that Business English is a different language. It seems frustrating at the best of times that after passing exams, integration into a work environment is challenging. One word will help define this, and it’s; “formality”.
Simply put, there are three main considerations: high, medium, and low, otherwise known as Very formal, semi-formal, and casual. The type of organisation that you work for depicts the business tone.
Business Compound Prepositions
Compound prepositions combine a preposition with another word or words to create a new meaning. These compound prepositions are frequently used in business communication to express specific relationships, positions, or actions.
1. In front of
2. Next to
3. Out of
4. Due to
5. In addition to
6. On behalf of
7. In line with
8. In accordance with
9. In relation to
10. In response to
Business Phrasal Verbs
Phrasal verbs are commonly used in business contexts and can help add clarity and precision to your communication.
1. Carry out – to perform or complete a task or action
2. Set up – to establish or create something, such as a business or a meeting
3. Take over – to assume control or responsibility for something
4. Bring up – to mention or raise a topic or issue in a discussion
5. Follow up – to continue or pursue something, often after an initial contact or meeting
6. Look into – to investigate or examine something in detail
7. Bring in – to introduce or incorporate something new, such as a policy or a product
8. Take on – to accept or assume a responsibility or task
9. Call off – to cancel or terminate something, such as a meeting or an event
10. Work out – to resolve or find a solution to a problem or situation
Slang
While these phrases are commonly used in business settings, using them appropriately and considering your audience and context is essential.
1. “Thinking outside the box” – referring to innovative and creative thinking.
2. “Get the ball rolling” – to initiate or start a project or task.
3. “On the same page” – to be in agreement or have a shared understanding.
4. “Win-win situation” – a scenario where all parties benefit.
5. “Low-hanging fruit” – refers to easy or quick opportunities for success.
6. “Touch base” – to have a brief meeting or conversation to update or check in with someone.
7. “Throw someone under the bus” – to blame or sacrifice someone else to protect oneself.
8. “Drop the ball” – to make a mistake or fail to meet expectations.
9. “Move the needle” – to significantly impact or create meaningful change.
10. “Put all your eggs in one basket” – to invest all your resources or focus on a single option, which can be risky.
Importance Of Business English
The main reason to learn Business English is to enhance your professional communication skills and increase your opportunities in the global business world.
Life After IELTS
The IELTS exam is indeed a qualification that endorses your level of English. Employers will know you can hold meetings, write emails, and build professional relationships.
Learning English and applying the English language in situations are two different things. My take on this as a teacher is that if you aspire to achieve a promotion, create an opportunity, or even fast-track a career, you must set a level.
English language professional proficiency in the service sector is different, such as working at a supermarket. The bar is higher if you have a professional base, such as an accountant or project manager.
Empathetic Voice Tones
In business communication, using an empathetic tone of voice is vital as it helps build rapport, understanding, and trust with your colleagues, clients, and partners. Here are a few examples of empathetic voice tones in Business English:
1. Concerned: When someone expresses a problem or challenge, respond with a tone that shows genuine concern. For example, “I understand the difficulties you’re facing. Let’s work together to find a solution that works for everyone.”
2. Supportive: Show empathy by offering support and encouragement. For instance, “I appreciate your hard work on this project. If there’s anything I can do to assist you, please let me know.”
3. Understanding: Acknowledge the emotions and perspectives of others. For example, “I can understand why you might feel frustrated. Let’s discuss how we can address this issue and find a resolution.”
4. Patient: Maintaining a patient tone when dealing with complex or challenging situations. For instance, “I understand this process can be overwhelming. Take your time, and I’ll guide you every step of the way.”
5. Positive: Maintain an optimistic and motivating tone, especially during difficult times. For example, “Although we face challenges, I believe in our ability to overcome them. Let’s focus on the opportunities ahead and work towards achieving our goals.”
Remember, using an empathetic voice tone in business communication shows that you value and understand the emotions and concerns of others. It helps foster positive relationships and effective collaboration in the business world.
Learning about voice tones is better suited if you are intermediate to advanced. For more information about our Business English course, contact us today.
The Human resources function has evolved and is now embracing artificial intelligence. The politics surrounding the interview process goes under the microscope in this controversial lesson plan.
The interview process has become more dynamic, inclusive, and technology-driven over the past ten years, with a greater focus on assessing a candidate’s potential beyond just qualifications and experience.
Format
In the past, interviews were predominantly conducted in person. Phone interviews were also common, but video interviews were less prevalent. Nowadays, video interviews have become more popular and are often used to assess candidates remotely.
Interview Technology
The use of technology during interviews has significantly evolved. In the past, relying on paper resumes and documents was common. Today, online applications, applicant tracking systems, and digital portfolios are frequently used to streamline the process and gather more comprehensive information about candidates.
Assessment methods
Traditional interviews mainly focused on asking questions and gauging a candidate’s qualifications and experience. However, modern practices have introduced various assessment techniques such as behavioural interviews, case studies, group interviews, and skills assessments. These methods provide a more holistic view of a candidate’s abilities and potential fit within an organisation.
Emphasis on soft skills
While technical skills and qualifications were often the primary focus in the past, there has been a shift towards evaluating a candidate’s soft skills in modern practices. Employers now place greater importance on traits like communication, teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities.
Interview Diversity and inclusion
Over the past decade, there has been a growing emphasis on diversity and inclusion in the workplace. As a result, modern interview practices aim to reduce bias and increase diversity by implementing structured interview questions, blind resume screening, and diverse interview panels.
Conversation Questions
Part 1
1. Is using artificial intelligence and algorithms to screen and select job candidates fair for companies?
2. Should companies be allowed to ask candidates about their salary history during the interview process?
3. Is it ethical for companies to use personality tests or psychological assessments in hiring?
4. Should companies be required to offer feedback to all candidates who were interviewed but have yet to be selected?
5. Is it fair for companies to conduct background checks on job candidates without their knowledge or consent?
6. Should companies ask candidates about their political or religious beliefs during the interview process?
7. Is it ethical for companies to replace video interviews with in-person interviews?
8. Should companies be required to provide interview accommodations for disabled candidates?
9. Is it fair for companies to conduct multiple rounds of interviews with the same candidate?
10. Should companies be allowed to ask candidates about their plans for starting a family or having children?
Part 2
11. Is it ethical for companies to use social media profiles and online presence to evaluate job candidates?
12. Should companies be required to disclose the salary range for a position before the interview process begins?
13. Is it fair for companies to ask candidates to complete unpaid assignments or tests during the interview process?
14. Should companies be allowed to ask candidates about their past experiences with mental health or disabilities during the interview process?
15. Is it ethical for companies to ask candidates to provide access to their personal social media accounts?
16. Should companies be required to have diverse interview panels to ensure unbiased decision-making?
17. Is it fair for companies to ask candidates about their future career plans and how long they intend to stay with the company?
18. Should companies be allowed to ask candidates about their marital status or family responsibilities during the interview process?
19. Is it ethical for companies to ask candidates about their previous salary expectations during the interview process?
20. Should companies be required to provide clear and transparent feedback to candidates regarding their interview performance?
Part 3
21. Should companies be allowed to use automated video interviews where candidates record their responses to pre-determined questions?
22. Is it fair for companies to ask candidates to complete personality assessments that claim to predict job performance?
23. Should companies be required to provide interview feedback to candidates within a specified timeframe?
24. Is it ethical for companies to base hiring decisions on a candidate’s social media presence or online reputation?
25. Should companies be allowed to conduct drug tests during interviews?
26. Is it fair for companies to ask candidates about their credit history or financial situation during interviews?
27. Should companies be required to disclose the specific criteria they use to evaluate candidates during the interview process?
28. Is it ethical for companies to ask candidates to provide references from their current employer without their knowledge?
29. Should companies be allowed to ask candidates about their previous criminal history during the interview process?
30. Is it fair for companies to use structured interviews with standardised questions, or should interviews be more flexible and tailored to individual candidates?
