1 Tell me about yourself.
2 How would you describe yourself? (character/personality)
3 What are your strengths/weaknesses?
4 Are you married? Single? Do you have a partner?
5 What do you do in your free time?
What are your hobbies? / Do you have any hobbies?
6 Why are you interested in working for our company?
Why do you want to work for this company?
7 What type of position do you think you are suited for / would suit you?
8 How would you describe the position we have to offer?
9 What aspects of the position are you most / least interested in?
10 What would you like to find in this job that you didn't have in your previous job?
11 How do you think you could develop the position?
What would be your strategy to develop the position?
12 What have you got to offer us?
What could you contribute to our company?
13 Why do you want to leave your present job?
Why do you want to change jobs?
14 What were you responsible for?
What did your job involve?
15 What do you think you gained by working in your last job?
16 What do you think of your (last) boss?
17 What are your salary requirements?
How much would you hope to earn in this position?
How much do you think you should be offered for this position?
What salary would you expect (to be offered) for this position?
18 Have you received any offers of a job?
19 Why have you had to look for a job for so long?
Why have you been looking for a job for so long?
Why did it take you so long to find a new job?
20 How do you feel about your future in the profession?
21 Have you had any failures? / What failures have you had?
Have you had any negative experiences?
22 What sort of obstacles have you come across/encountered in your work?
23 If you had to recruit colleagues, what qualities would you look for?
24 Would you be willing to relocate/to move to another part of the country/
to work abroad?
Did you have to travel abroad in your last job?
25 Don't you think you have too much experience/you are over-qualified for this job?
26 How long do you think you would stay with us?
If we offered you the job, how long would you expect to stay with us?
27 Which do you prefer : to work alone or in a team?
Do you prefer working alone or with other people as part of a team?
28 Do you know how to manage a team?
Are you capable of leading a team?
Do you think you have the ability to be a team leader?
29 Why should I recruit you?
How could you persuade me to recruit you?
30 Do you have any comments to make, or questions to ask?
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Monday, November 1, 2010
Job Applications
The application form is used by companies as a means of ......... basic information from all applicants.
(a) acquiring
(b) distributing
(c) manipulating
(d) standardizing
The application is a key marketing tool for the applicant in the job-......... process.
(a) advertising
(b) gathering
(c) seeking
(d) wanted
Companies utilize the application as a ......... for deciding whether to interview the applicant.
(a) background
(b) basis
(c) blueline
(d) bottomline
The application form should be considered the applicant's first test in ......... directions.
(a) examining
(b) following
(c) indicating
(d) reading
The application form should be filled out as ......... as possible; it reflects the applicant's nature.
(a) cleanly
(b) freshly
(c) neatly
(d) nicely
On the form, answers should be ......... to the specific position for which the person is applying.
(a) measured
(b) modified
(c) presented
(d) tailored
No ......... should be left on the form; for questions that are irrelevant, write "not applicable" ("n/a").
(a) answers
(b) blanks
(c) empties
(d) notes
The goal of the application is to obtain a personal interview, so do not provide any ......... information.
(a) affirmative
(b) negative
(c) objective
(d) positive
Questions should be answered ........., but complete answers need not necessarily be given.
(a) briefly
(b) comprehensively
(c) earnestly
(d) truthfully
Specific salary limits should never be indicated on the application; just write "open" or " ......... ".
(a) negative
(b) negotiable
(c) undecided
(d) unknown
(a) acquiring
(b) distributing
(c) manipulating
(d) standardizing
The application is a key marketing tool for the applicant in the job-......... process.
(a) advertising
(b) gathering
(c) seeking
(d) wanted
Companies utilize the application as a ......... for deciding whether to interview the applicant.
(a) background
(b) basis
(c) blueline
(d) bottomline
The application form should be considered the applicant's first test in ......... directions.
(a) examining
(b) following
(c) indicating
(d) reading
The application form should be filled out as ......... as possible; it reflects the applicant's nature.
(a) cleanly
(b) freshly
(c) neatly
(d) nicely
On the form, answers should be ......... to the specific position for which the person is applying.
(a) measured
(b) modified
(c) presented
(d) tailored
No ......... should be left on the form; for questions that are irrelevant, write "not applicable" ("n/a").
(a) answers
(b) blanks
(c) empties
(d) notes
The goal of the application is to obtain a personal interview, so do not provide any ......... information.
(a) affirmative
(b) negative
(c) objective
(d) positive
Questions should be answered ........., but complete answers need not necessarily be given.
(a) briefly
(b) comprehensively
(c) earnestly
(d) truthfully
Specific salary limits should never be indicated on the application; just write "open" or " ......... ".
(a) negative
(b) negotiable
(c) undecided
(d) unknown
Finding a job
The Personnel Department
The personnel department is responsible for hiring the best possible candidate for an open position. Often hundreds of applicants apply for an open position. In order to save time, the personnel department often uses a number of methods to select applicants who they would like to interview. Your cover letter and resume must be perfect in order to ensure that you will not be looked over because of a minor mistake. This unit focuses on the various documents required for a successful job application, as well as interviewing techniques and appropriate vocabulary to use in your resume, cover letter and during the job interview itself.
Finding a Job
There are many ways to find a job. One of the most common is looking through the positions offered section of your local newspaper. Here is an example of a typical job posting:
Job Opening
Due to the enormous success of Jeans and Co., we have a number of job openings for shop assistants and local management positions.
Shop Assistant:
Successful candidates will have a high school degree with at least 3 years working experience and two current references. Desired qualifications include basic computer skills. Key responsibilities will include operating cash-registers and providing customers with any help they may need.
Management Positions:
Successful candidates will have a college degree in business administration and management experience. Desired qualifications include management experience in retail and thorough knowledge of Microsoft's Office Suite. Responsibilities will include management of local branches with up to 10 employees. Willingness to move frequently also a plus.
If you wish to apply for one of the above vacancies, please send a resume and cover letter to our personnel manager at:
Jeans and Co.
254 Main Street
Seattle, WA 98502
The Cover Letter
The cover letter introduces your resume or CV when applying for a job interview. There a few important things that need to be included in the cover letter. Most importantly, the cover letter should point out why you are particularly suited to the position. The best way to do this is to take the job posting and point out the highlights in your resume that exactly match the desired qualifications. Here is an outline to writing a successful cover letter. To the right of the letter, look for important notes concerning the layout of the letter signaled by a number in parenthesis ().
Peter Townsled
35 Green Road (1)
Spokane, WA 87954
April 19, 200_
Mr Frank Peterson, Personnel Manager (2)
Jeans and Co.
254 Main Street
Seattle, WA 98502
Dear Mr. Trimm: (3)
(4) I am writing to you in response to your advertisement for a local branch manager, which appeared in the Seattle Times on Sunday, June 15. As you can see from my enclosed resume, my experience and qualifications match this position's requirements.
(5) My current position managing the local branch of a national shoe retailers has provided the opportunity to work in a high-pressure, team environment, where it is essential to be able to work closely with my colleagues in order to meet sales deadlines.
In addition to my responsibilities as manager, I also developed time management tools for staff using Access and Excel from Microsoft's Office Suite.
(6) Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the opportunity to personally discuss why I am particularly suited to this position. Please telephone me at after 4.00 p.m. to suggest a time that we may meet. I can also be reached by email at petert@net.com
Sincerely,
Peter Townsled
Peter Townsled (7)
Enclosure
NOTES
1 - Begin your cover letter by placing your address first, followed by the address of the company you are writing to.
2 - Use complete title and address; don't abbreviate.
3 - Always make an effort to write directly to the person in charge of hiring.
4 - Opening paragraph - Use this paragraph to specify which job you are applying for, or, if you are writing to inquire whether a job position is open question the availability of an opening.
5 - Middle paragraph(s) - This section should be used to highlight your work experience which most closely matches the desired job requirements presented in the job opening advertisement. Do not simply restate what is contained in your resume. Notice how the example makes a special effort to show why the writer is especially suited to the job position opening posted above.
6 - Closing paragraph - Use the closing paragraph to ensure action on the part of the reader. One possibility is to ask for an interview appointment time. Make it easy for the personnel department to contact you by providing your telephone number and email address.
7 - Always sign letters. "enclosure" indicates that you are enclosing your resume.
The personnel department is responsible for hiring the best possible candidate for an open position. Often hundreds of applicants apply for an open position. In order to save time, the personnel department often uses a number of methods to select applicants who they would like to interview. Your cover letter and resume must be perfect in order to ensure that you will not be looked over because of a minor mistake. This unit focuses on the various documents required for a successful job application, as well as interviewing techniques and appropriate vocabulary to use in your resume, cover letter and during the job interview itself.
Finding a Job
There are many ways to find a job. One of the most common is looking through the positions offered section of your local newspaper. Here is an example of a typical job posting:
Job Opening
Due to the enormous success of Jeans and Co., we have a number of job openings for shop assistants and local management positions.
Shop Assistant:
Successful candidates will have a high school degree with at least 3 years working experience and two current references. Desired qualifications include basic computer skills. Key responsibilities will include operating cash-registers and providing customers with any help they may need.
Management Positions:
Successful candidates will have a college degree in business administration and management experience. Desired qualifications include management experience in retail and thorough knowledge of Microsoft's Office Suite. Responsibilities will include management of local branches with up to 10 employees. Willingness to move frequently also a plus.
If you wish to apply for one of the above vacancies, please send a resume and cover letter to our personnel manager at:
Jeans and Co.
254 Main Street
Seattle, WA 98502
The Cover Letter
The cover letter introduces your resume or CV when applying for a job interview. There a few important things that need to be included in the cover letter. Most importantly, the cover letter should point out why you are particularly suited to the position. The best way to do this is to take the job posting and point out the highlights in your resume that exactly match the desired qualifications. Here is an outline to writing a successful cover letter. To the right of the letter, look for important notes concerning the layout of the letter signaled by a number in parenthesis ().
Peter Townsled
35 Green Road (1)
Spokane, WA 87954
April 19, 200_
Mr Frank Peterson, Personnel Manager (2)
Jeans and Co.
254 Main Street
Seattle, WA 98502
Dear Mr. Trimm: (3)
(4) I am writing to you in response to your advertisement for a local branch manager, which appeared in the Seattle Times on Sunday, June 15. As you can see from my enclosed resume, my experience and qualifications match this position's requirements.
(5) My current position managing the local branch of a national shoe retailers has provided the opportunity to work in a high-pressure, team environment, where it is essential to be able to work closely with my colleagues in order to meet sales deadlines.
In addition to my responsibilities as manager, I also developed time management tools for staff using Access and Excel from Microsoft's Office Suite.
(6) Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the opportunity to personally discuss why I am particularly suited to this position. Please telephone me at after 4.00 p.m. to suggest a time that we may meet. I can also be reached by email at petert@net.com
Sincerely,
Peter Townsled
Peter Townsled (7)
Enclosure
NOTES
1 - Begin your cover letter by placing your address first, followed by the address of the company you are writing to.
2 - Use complete title and address; don't abbreviate.
3 - Always make an effort to write directly to the person in charge of hiring.
4 - Opening paragraph - Use this paragraph to specify which job you are applying for, or, if you are writing to inquire whether a job position is open question the availability of an opening.
5 - Middle paragraph(s) - This section should be used to highlight your work experience which most closely matches the desired job requirements presented in the job opening advertisement. Do not simply restate what is contained in your resume. Notice how the example makes a special effort to show why the writer is especially suited to the job position opening posted above.
6 - Closing paragraph - Use the closing paragraph to ensure action on the part of the reader. One possibility is to ask for an interview appointment time. Make it easy for the personnel department to contact you by providing your telephone number and email address.
7 - Always sign letters. "enclosure" indicates that you are enclosing your resume.
Friday, October 22, 2010
retailer
retailer
Definition
A business which sells goods to the consumer, as opposed to a wholesaler or supplier which normally sell their goods to another business. Retailers include large businesses such as Wal-Mart, and also smaller, non-chain locations run independently such as a family-run bookstore.
segmentation
Definitions (3)
1. Business: Subdivision of a corporation into units along (1) organizational lines (braches, department, subsidiaries), (2) areas of economic activity (industry, market, product line), or (3) geographic regions.
2. Finance: Subdivision of a pool of assets into segments with similar characteristics, such as interest or yield rate.
3. Marketing: Subdivision of a population into segments with similar characteristics, such as age, education, incomeBusiness
startup costs
Non-recurring costs associated with setting up a business, such as accountant's fees, legal fees, registration charges. Also called startup expenses.
financial ratios
Financial analysis comparisons in which certain financial statement items are divided by one another to reveal their logical interrelationships. Some financial ratios (such as net sales to net worth ratio and net income to net sales ratio) are called 'primary' because they indicate the fundamental causes underlying a firm's strengths and weaknesses. Others (such as current assets to current liabilities ratio, and current liabilities to net worth ratio) are called 'secondary' because they depict the firm's competitive position and financial structure as effects of the causes identified by the primary ratios. See also activity ratios, efficiency ratios, investment ratios, leverage ratios, liquidity ratios, and profitability ratios.
return on capital (ROC)
Ratio measuring the profitability of a firm expressed as a percentage of funds acquired from investors and lenders. Also called return on invested capital. Formula: Income after taxes x 100 ÷ (Equity + Long-term debt).
overhead
1. General: Resource consumed or lost in completing a process, but which does not contribute directly to the end-product. Also called burden cost.
2. Accounting: Cost or expense (such as for administration, insurance, rent, and utility charges) that (1) relates to an operation or the firm as a whole, (2) does not become an integral part of a good or service (unlike raw material or direct labor), and (3) cannot be applied or traced to any specific unit of output. Overheads are indirect costs.
3. Data communications: Data bits added to user-transmitted data, for carrying routing information and error correcting and operational instructions.
4. Utilities: Energy or water lost during delivery from the generating or production plant to the end user.
Definition
A business which sells goods to the consumer, as opposed to a wholesaler or supplier which normally sell their goods to another business. Retailers include large businesses such as Wal-Mart, and also smaller, non-chain locations run independently such as a family-run bookstore.
segmentation
Definitions (3)
1. Business: Subdivision of a corporation into units along (1) organizational lines (braches, department, subsidiaries), (2) areas of economic activity (industry, market, product line), or (3) geographic regions.
2. Finance: Subdivision of a pool of assets into segments with similar characteristics, such as interest or yield rate.
3. Marketing: Subdivision of a population into segments with similar characteristics, such as age, education, incomeBusiness
startup costs
Non-recurring costs associated with setting up a business, such as accountant's fees, legal fees, registration charges. Also called startup expenses.
financial ratios
Financial analysis comparisons in which certain financial statement items are divided by one another to reveal their logical interrelationships. Some financial ratios (such as net sales to net worth ratio and net income to net sales ratio) are called 'primary' because they indicate the fundamental causes underlying a firm's strengths and weaknesses. Others (such as current assets to current liabilities ratio, and current liabilities to net worth ratio) are called 'secondary' because they depict the firm's competitive position and financial structure as effects of the causes identified by the primary ratios. See also activity ratios, efficiency ratios, investment ratios, leverage ratios, liquidity ratios, and profitability ratios.
return on capital (ROC)
Ratio measuring the profitability of a firm expressed as a percentage of funds acquired from investors and lenders. Also called return on invested capital. Formula: Income after taxes x 100 ÷ (Equity + Long-term debt).
overhead
1. General: Resource consumed or lost in completing a process, but which does not contribute directly to the end-product. Also called burden cost.
2. Accounting: Cost or expense (such as for administration, insurance, rent, and utility charges) that (1) relates to an operation or the firm as a whole, (2) does not become an integral part of a good or service (unlike raw material or direct labor), and (3) cannot be applied or traced to any specific unit of output. Overheads are indirect costs.
3. Data communications: Data bits added to user-transmitted data, for carrying routing information and error correcting and operational instructions.
4. Utilities: Energy or water lost during delivery from the generating or production plant to the end user.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Financial Dictionary
Ring Fence :
A strategy with which an investor isolates a certain amount of money from any outside risk.
Investopedia Commentary
Outside risks can include taxes, market fluctuation, inflation, and other economic factors. The ring fence is mainly used by offshore investors.
A strategy with which an investor isolates a certain amount of money from any outside risk.
Investopedia Commentary
Outside risks can include taxes, market fluctuation, inflation, and other economic factors. The ring fence is mainly used by offshore investors.
Monday, September 27, 2010
American English Business Idioms
Idiom:
an expression whose meaning is not predictable from the usual meanings of its constituent elements, as kick the bucket or hang one's head.
at a premium
at a high price; at a relatively high price
Example: When flat-screen televisions first came out, they were selling at a premium.
back-of-the-envelope calculations
quick calculations; estimates using approximate numbers, instead of exact numbers
Example: I don't need the exact numbers right now. Just give me some back-of-the-envelope calculations.
Note: This expression refers to the quick calculations one would do informally, as on the back of an envelope.
belt-tightening
reduction of expenses
Example: When worldwide demand for software decreased, Microsoft had to do some belt-tightening.
(to) bite the bullet
to make a difficult or painful decision; to take a difficult step
Example: When demand was down, U.S. automakers had to bite the bullet and cut jobs.
Origin: This idiom comes from the military. During the Civil War in the United States, doctors sometimes ran out of whiskey for killing the pain. A bullet would be put in the wounded soldier's mouth during surgery. He would "bite the bullet" to distract him from the pain and keep him quiet so the doctor could do his work in peace.
bitter pill to swallow
bad news; something unpleasant to accept
Example: After Gina spent her whole summer working as an intern for American Express, failing to get a full-time job offer from the company was a bitter pill to swallow.
blockbuster
a big success; a huge hit
Example: Eli Lilly made a lot of money with the prescription drug, Prozac. It was a real blockbuster.
Origin: This term comes from the blockbuster bombs used during World War Two by the British Royal Air Force. They were huge and created a large explosive force. Blockbuster ideas similarly create a big impact - and hopefully don't cause destruction like blockbuster bombs!
brownie points
credit for doing a good deed or for giving someone a compliment (usually a boss or teacher)
Example: Sara scored brownie points with her boss by volunteering to organize the company's holiday party.
Origin: The junior branch of the Girl Scouts is called the Brownies. Brownies earn credit to then earn a badge by doing good deeds and tasks. When applied to adults, the meaning is sarcastic.
cash cow
a product, service, or business division that generates a lot of cash for the company, without requiring much investment
Example: With strong sales every year and a great brand name, Mercedes is a cash cow for DaimlerChrysler.
(to) cash in on
to make money on; to benefit financially from
Example: Jamie Oliver, star of the TV show The Naked Chef, cashed in on his popularity by writing cookbooks and opening restaurants.
(to) climb the corporate ladder
advance in one's career; the process of getting promoted and making it to senior management
Example: You want to climb the corporate ladder? It helps to be productive and to look good in front of your boss.
(to) compare apples to oranges
to compare two unlike things; to make an invalid comparison
Example: Comparing a night at EconoLodge with a night at the Four Seasons is like comparing apples to oranges. One is a budget motel, and the other is a luxury hotel.
Note: You will also see the related expression "compare apples to apples" which means to compare two things of the same type. This means that you are making a valid comparison, as opposed to when you're comparing apples to oranges.
crunch time
a short period when there's high pressure to achieve a result
Example: It's crunch time for stem cell researchers in Korea. New government regulations may soon make their work illegal.
dog-eat-dog world
a cruel and aggressive world in which people just look out for themselves
Example: Your company fired you shortly after you had a heart attack? Well, it's certainly a dog-eat-dog world!
Origin: This expression dates back to the 1500's. Wild dogs were observed fighting aggressively over a piece of food. The connection was made that people, like dogs, often compete aggressively to get what they want.
(to) dot your i's and cross your t's
to be very careful; to pay attention to details
Example: When preparing financial statements, accuracy is very important. Be sure to dot your i's and cross your t's.
(to) drum up business
to create business; to find new customers
Example: Sales have been very slow lately. Do you have any ideas for drumming up business?
(to) face the music
to admit that there's a problem; to deal with an unpleasant situation realistically
Example: Enron executives finally had to face the music and admit that they were involved in some illegal activities.
(to) fast track a project
to make a project a high priority; to speed up the time frame of a project
Example: Let's fast track this project. We've heard rumors that our competitors are developing similar products.
(to) generate lots of buzz
to cause many people to start talking about a product or service, usually in a positive way that increases sales
Example: Procter & Gamble generated lots of buzz for its new toothpaste by giving away free samples to people on the streets of New York City.
Note: "Buzz" is a popular word for "attention."
(to) have a lot on one's plate
to have a lot to do; to have too much to do; to have too much to cope with
Example: Carlos turned down the project, explaining that he already had a lot on his plate.
Note: There is also the variation: to have too much on one's plate.
(the) hard sell
an aggressive way of selling
Example: Car salesmen are famous for using the hard sell on their customers.
Note: The opposite of "the hard sell" is "the soft sell," which is a sales technique using little or no pressure.
(to) jump the gun
to start doing something too soon or ahead of everybody else
Example: The company jumped the gun by releasing a new product before the results of the consumer testing were in.
Origin: A runner "jumps the gun" if he or she starts running before the starter's pistol has been fired.
(to) jump through hoops
to go through a lot of difficult work for something; to face many bureaucratic obstacles
Example: We had to jump through hoops to get our visas to Russia, but we finally got them.
(to) keep one's eye on the prize
to stay focused on the end result; to not let small problems get in the way of good results
Example: I know it's difficult going to class after work, but just keep your eye on the prize. At the end of next year, you'll have your MBA.
Note: You will also see the variation: keep one's eyes on the prize.
(to) keep something under wraps
to keep something secret; to not let anybody know about a new project or plan
Example: I'm sorry I can't tell you anything about the project I'm working on. My boss told me to keep it under wraps.
Note: "Wraps" are things that provide cover, so if something is "under wraps" it's covered up and hidden.
mum's the word
let's keep quiet about this; I agree not to tell anyone about this
Example: Please don't tell anybody about our new project. Remember: mum's the word!
Origin: The word "mum" comes from the murmur "mmmmm," the only sound you can make when your mouth is shut firmly. Try making other sounds besides "mmmmm" with your lips and mouth shut firmly, and you will see that it's impossible!
my gut tells me
I have a strong feeling that; my intuition tells me
Example: It's true that I don't know him well, but my gut tells me that James is the right person for the sales director position.
Note: The "gut" is both the intestines and stomach and also the innermost emotional response.
nothing ventured, nothing gained
If you don't try to do something, you'll never succeed.
Example: It's risky to spend so much money developing a new brand, but nothing ventured, nothing gained.
on top of trends
modern; aware and responding to the latest tastes
Example: The Gap is on top of trends. They always have the latest styles in their stores.
(to) pass the buck
to shift the blame; to blame somebody else
Example: It's your fault. Don't try to pass the buck!
Origin: This expression comes from the world of poker. In the nineteenth century, a knife with a buckhorn handle (the "buck") was passed to the next dealer when it was his turn to give out the cards.
(to) plug (a product)
to promote a product; to talk positively about a product
Example: American Express often hires famous people to plug their credit cards. No wonder people pay attention to their ads!
(to) pull one's weight
to do one's share of the work
Example: Don't rely on others to get your job done. You need to pull your own weight.
Note: You will also hear the variation: to pull one's own weight.
(to) pull the plug
to put a stop to a project or initiative, usually because it's not going well; to stop something from moving forward; to discontinue
Example: After losing millions of dollars drilling for oil in Nebraska and finding nothing, the oil company finally pulled the plug on its exploration project.
Origin: This expression refers to removing a plug to make something stop working - when you pull the plug out of the wall, your appliance doesn't work. In the 19th century, when this term originated, the plug was for a toilet. To flush the toilet, you had to pull out a plug.
(to) put a stake in the ground
to take the first step; to make a big move to get something started; to make a commitment
Example: Our business in California has grown steadily over the past two years. Now is the time to put a stake in the ground and open a regional office there.
(to) rally the troops
to motivate others; to get other people excited about doing something; to do something to improve the morale of the employees and get them energized about doing their work
Example: After the lay-offs and salary cuts, the airline president organized a meeting to rally the troops and plan for the next year.
Note: The verb "to rally" has several definitions, but in this case means to "call together for a common goal or purpose." Troops is an informal way of describing a group of employees. The term comes from the military - a troop is a military unit.
reality check
let's think realistically about this situation (said when you don't like something that's being suggested because you don't think the other person is thinking practically or logically)
Example: You think we can start selling our products through our website next month? Time for a reality check! Nobody at our company knows anything about e-commerce.
(to) scale back one's hours
to reduce the number of hours one works
Example: When Christine had a baby, she decided to scale back her hours and just work part-time. Synonym: to cut back one's hours
Shape up or ship out!
improve your behavior or leave; if you don't improve your performance, you're going to get fired
Example: Martin finally had enough of Todd's negative attitude. "Shape up or ship out!" he told Todd.
Origin: This expression was first used in the U.S. military during World War Two, meaning: you'd better follow regulations and behave yourself ("shape up"), or you're going to be sent overseas to a war zone ("ship out").
(to) step up to the plate
to take action; to do one's best; to volunteer
Example: We need somebody to be in charge of organizing the company holiday party. Who'd like to step up to the plate and start working on this project?
Note: This expression comes from baseball. You step up to the plate (a plastic mat on the ground) when it's your turn to hit the ball.
(to) throw cold water over (an idea, a plan)
to present reasons why something will not work; to discourage
Example: Pat presented her boss with a plan to expand their business into China, but he threw cold water over her plan and told her to just focus on developing business in the United States.
Note: You will also hear the variation: to throw cold water on.
though the roof
very high; higher than expected
Example: No wonder people are complaining about the cost of heating their homes. Oil prices have gone through the roof!
(to) turn around one's business
to make a business profitable again; to go from not making profits to being profitable again
Example: The telecom company was able to turn around its business by developing a popular new line of services.
(to) work down to the wire
to work until the last minute; to work until just before the deadline
Example: The investment bankers need to turn in their report at 9 a.m. tomorrow morning, and they've still got many hours of work left on it. They're going to be working down to the wire.
Note: This expression comes from horse racing. In the 19th century, American racetracks placed wire across the track above the finish line. The wire helped determine which horse's nose crossed the line first. If a race was "down to the wire," it was a very close race, undecided until the very last second.
(to) work out the (or some) kinks
to solve the problems with
Example: The company announced that they will delay the launch of their new product by two weeks. They still need to work out the kinks with their packaging process.
Note: A "kink" is a problem or flaw in a system or plan.
yes man
an employee who always agrees with the boss or does whatever the boss says
Example: Don't expect Larry to argue with the boss. He's a yes man.
an expression whose meaning is not predictable from the usual meanings of its constituent elements, as kick the bucket or hang one's head.
at a premium
at a high price; at a relatively high price
Example: When flat-screen televisions first came out, they were selling at a premium.
back-of-the-envelope calculations
quick calculations; estimates using approximate numbers, instead of exact numbers
Example: I don't need the exact numbers right now. Just give me some back-of-the-envelope calculations.
Note: This expression refers to the quick calculations one would do informally, as on the back of an envelope.
belt-tightening
reduction of expenses
Example: When worldwide demand for software decreased, Microsoft had to do some belt-tightening.
(to) bite the bullet
to make a difficult or painful decision; to take a difficult step
Example: When demand was down, U.S. automakers had to bite the bullet and cut jobs.
Origin: This idiom comes from the military. During the Civil War in the United States, doctors sometimes ran out of whiskey for killing the pain. A bullet would be put in the wounded soldier's mouth during surgery. He would "bite the bullet" to distract him from the pain and keep him quiet so the doctor could do his work in peace.
bitter pill to swallow
bad news; something unpleasant to accept
Example: After Gina spent her whole summer working as an intern for American Express, failing to get a full-time job offer from the company was a bitter pill to swallow.
blockbuster
a big success; a huge hit
Example: Eli Lilly made a lot of money with the prescription drug, Prozac. It was a real blockbuster.
Origin: This term comes from the blockbuster bombs used during World War Two by the British Royal Air Force. They were huge and created a large explosive force. Blockbuster ideas similarly create a big impact - and hopefully don't cause destruction like blockbuster bombs!
brownie points
credit for doing a good deed or for giving someone a compliment (usually a boss or teacher)
Example: Sara scored brownie points with her boss by volunteering to organize the company's holiday party.
Origin: The junior branch of the Girl Scouts is called the Brownies. Brownies earn credit to then earn a badge by doing good deeds and tasks. When applied to adults, the meaning is sarcastic.
cash cow
a product, service, or business division that generates a lot of cash for the company, without requiring much investment
Example: With strong sales every year and a great brand name, Mercedes is a cash cow for DaimlerChrysler.
(to) cash in on
to make money on; to benefit financially from
Example: Jamie Oliver, star of the TV show The Naked Chef, cashed in on his popularity by writing cookbooks and opening restaurants.
(to) climb the corporate ladder
advance in one's career; the process of getting promoted and making it to senior management
Example: You want to climb the corporate ladder? It helps to be productive and to look good in front of your boss.
(to) compare apples to oranges
to compare two unlike things; to make an invalid comparison
Example: Comparing a night at EconoLodge with a night at the Four Seasons is like comparing apples to oranges. One is a budget motel, and the other is a luxury hotel.
Note: You will also see the related expression "compare apples to apples" which means to compare two things of the same type. This means that you are making a valid comparison, as opposed to when you're comparing apples to oranges.
crunch time
a short period when there's high pressure to achieve a result
Example: It's crunch time for stem cell researchers in Korea. New government regulations may soon make their work illegal.
dog-eat-dog world
a cruel and aggressive world in which people just look out for themselves
Example: Your company fired you shortly after you had a heart attack? Well, it's certainly a dog-eat-dog world!
Origin: This expression dates back to the 1500's. Wild dogs were observed fighting aggressively over a piece of food. The connection was made that people, like dogs, often compete aggressively to get what they want.
(to) dot your i's and cross your t's
to be very careful; to pay attention to details
Example: When preparing financial statements, accuracy is very important. Be sure to dot your i's and cross your t's.
(to) drum up business
to create business; to find new customers
Example: Sales have been very slow lately. Do you have any ideas for drumming up business?
(to) face the music
to admit that there's a problem; to deal with an unpleasant situation realistically
Example: Enron executives finally had to face the music and admit that they were involved in some illegal activities.
(to) fast track a project
to make a project a high priority; to speed up the time frame of a project
Example: Let's fast track this project. We've heard rumors that our competitors are developing similar products.
(to) generate lots of buzz
to cause many people to start talking about a product or service, usually in a positive way that increases sales
Example: Procter & Gamble generated lots of buzz for its new toothpaste by giving away free samples to people on the streets of New York City.
Note: "Buzz" is a popular word for "attention."
(to) have a lot on one's plate
to have a lot to do; to have too much to do; to have too much to cope with
Example: Carlos turned down the project, explaining that he already had a lot on his plate.
Note: There is also the variation: to have too much on one's plate.
(the) hard sell
an aggressive way of selling
Example: Car salesmen are famous for using the hard sell on their customers.
Note: The opposite of "the hard sell" is "the soft sell," which is a sales technique using little or no pressure.
(to) jump the gun
to start doing something too soon or ahead of everybody else
Example: The company jumped the gun by releasing a new product before the results of the consumer testing were in.
Origin: A runner "jumps the gun" if he or she starts running before the starter's pistol has been fired.
(to) jump through hoops
to go through a lot of difficult work for something; to face many bureaucratic obstacles
Example: We had to jump through hoops to get our visas to Russia, but we finally got them.
(to) keep one's eye on the prize
to stay focused on the end result; to not let small problems get in the way of good results
Example: I know it's difficult going to class after work, but just keep your eye on the prize. At the end of next year, you'll have your MBA.
Note: You will also see the variation: keep one's eyes on the prize.
(to) keep something under wraps
to keep something secret; to not let anybody know about a new project or plan
Example: I'm sorry I can't tell you anything about the project I'm working on. My boss told me to keep it under wraps.
Note: "Wraps" are things that provide cover, so if something is "under wraps" it's covered up and hidden.
mum's the word
let's keep quiet about this; I agree not to tell anyone about this
Example: Please don't tell anybody about our new project. Remember: mum's the word!
Origin: The word "mum" comes from the murmur "mmmmm," the only sound you can make when your mouth is shut firmly. Try making other sounds besides "mmmmm" with your lips and mouth shut firmly, and you will see that it's impossible!
my gut tells me
I have a strong feeling that; my intuition tells me
Example: It's true that I don't know him well, but my gut tells me that James is the right person for the sales director position.
Note: The "gut" is both the intestines and stomach and also the innermost emotional response.
nothing ventured, nothing gained
If you don't try to do something, you'll never succeed.
Example: It's risky to spend so much money developing a new brand, but nothing ventured, nothing gained.
on top of trends
modern; aware and responding to the latest tastes
Example: The Gap is on top of trends. They always have the latest styles in their stores.
(to) pass the buck
to shift the blame; to blame somebody else
Example: It's your fault. Don't try to pass the buck!
Origin: This expression comes from the world of poker. In the nineteenth century, a knife with a buckhorn handle (the "buck") was passed to the next dealer when it was his turn to give out the cards.
(to) plug (a product)
to promote a product; to talk positively about a product
Example: American Express often hires famous people to plug their credit cards. No wonder people pay attention to their ads!
(to) pull one's weight
to do one's share of the work
Example: Don't rely on others to get your job done. You need to pull your own weight.
Note: You will also hear the variation: to pull one's own weight.
(to) pull the plug
to put a stop to a project or initiative, usually because it's not going well; to stop something from moving forward; to discontinue
Example: After losing millions of dollars drilling for oil in Nebraska and finding nothing, the oil company finally pulled the plug on its exploration project.
Origin: This expression refers to removing a plug to make something stop working - when you pull the plug out of the wall, your appliance doesn't work. In the 19th century, when this term originated, the plug was for a toilet. To flush the toilet, you had to pull out a plug.
(to) put a stake in the ground
to take the first step; to make a big move to get something started; to make a commitment
Example: Our business in California has grown steadily over the past two years. Now is the time to put a stake in the ground and open a regional office there.
(to) rally the troops
to motivate others; to get other people excited about doing something; to do something to improve the morale of the employees and get them energized about doing their work
Example: After the lay-offs and salary cuts, the airline president organized a meeting to rally the troops and plan for the next year.
Note: The verb "to rally" has several definitions, but in this case means to "call together for a common goal or purpose." Troops is an informal way of describing a group of employees. The term comes from the military - a troop is a military unit.
reality check
let's think realistically about this situation (said when you don't like something that's being suggested because you don't think the other person is thinking practically or logically)
Example: You think we can start selling our products through our website next month? Time for a reality check! Nobody at our company knows anything about e-commerce.
(to) scale back one's hours
to reduce the number of hours one works
Example: When Christine had a baby, she decided to scale back her hours and just work part-time. Synonym: to cut back one's hours
Shape up or ship out!
improve your behavior or leave; if you don't improve your performance, you're going to get fired
Example: Martin finally had enough of Todd's negative attitude. "Shape up or ship out!" he told Todd.
Origin: This expression was first used in the U.S. military during World War Two, meaning: you'd better follow regulations and behave yourself ("shape up"), or you're going to be sent overseas to a war zone ("ship out").
(to) step up to the plate
to take action; to do one's best; to volunteer
Example: We need somebody to be in charge of organizing the company holiday party. Who'd like to step up to the plate and start working on this project?
Note: This expression comes from baseball. You step up to the plate (a plastic mat on the ground) when it's your turn to hit the ball.
(to) throw cold water over (an idea, a plan)
to present reasons why something will not work; to discourage
Example: Pat presented her boss with a plan to expand their business into China, but he threw cold water over her plan and told her to just focus on developing business in the United States.
Note: You will also hear the variation: to throw cold water on.
though the roof
very high; higher than expected
Example: No wonder people are complaining about the cost of heating their homes. Oil prices have gone through the roof!
(to) turn around one's business
to make a business profitable again; to go from not making profits to being profitable again
Example: The telecom company was able to turn around its business by developing a popular new line of services.
(to) work down to the wire
to work until the last minute; to work until just before the deadline
Example: The investment bankers need to turn in their report at 9 a.m. tomorrow morning, and they've still got many hours of work left on it. They're going to be working down to the wire.
Note: This expression comes from horse racing. In the 19th century, American racetracks placed wire across the track above the finish line. The wire helped determine which horse's nose crossed the line first. If a race was "down to the wire," it was a very close race, undecided until the very last second.
(to) work out the (or some) kinks
to solve the problems with
Example: The company announced that they will delay the launch of their new product by two weeks. They still need to work out the kinks with their packaging process.
Note: A "kink" is a problem or flaw in a system or plan.
yes man
an employee who always agrees with the boss or does whatever the boss says
Example: Don't expect Larry to argue with the boss. He's a yes man.
Monday, September 20, 2010
English for Economics
English for Economics is designed especially to help students of Economics to increase their command of English using materials relating to their own subject of study.
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