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.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Accommodation
Common words and phrases
dormitory
double room
family room
twin room
single room
double bed
youth hostel
bunk bed
fill in a form
reception
receptionist
key
book in advance
vacancies
no vacancies
Your accommodation is the place where you stay (note: the spelling is difficult - it is not "accomodation" - and there is no plural word "accommodations" in British English).
The landlord (or landlady) is the owner of your accommodation.
The money you pay to your landlord (usually weekly or monthly) is called rent.
You usually pay a deposit when you start renting; normally this money is returned to you when you leave unless you break or damage things or fail to pay the rent.
An inventory is a list of what is in the accommodation.
If breakfast and supper are provided it is called full board. If only breakfast is provided it is half board. If there are no meals provided it is self-catering.
If you live in a different building from the landlord you are known as a tenant. A tenancy agreement is a legal contract between you and your landlord. The notice period is the amount of time your landlord must give you if he/she wants you to leave the accommodation, or the amount of warning which you must give your landlord if you want to leave.
If you live in part of the same house as the landlord, you are a licensee. The contract is known as a licence agreement.
dormitory
double room
family room
twin room
single room
double bed
youth hostel
bunk bed
fill in a form
reception
receptionist
key
book in advance
vacancies
no vacancies
Your accommodation is the place where you stay (note: the spelling is difficult - it is not "accomodation" - and there is no plural word "accommodations" in British English).
The landlord (or landlady) is the owner of your accommodation.
The money you pay to your landlord (usually weekly or monthly) is called rent.
You usually pay a deposit when you start renting; normally this money is returned to you when you leave unless you break or damage things or fail to pay the rent.
An inventory is a list of what is in the accommodation.
If breakfast and supper are provided it is called full board. If only breakfast is provided it is half board. If there are no meals provided it is self-catering.
If you live in a different building from the landlord you are known as a tenant. A tenancy agreement is a legal contract between you and your landlord. The notice period is the amount of time your landlord must give you if he/she wants you to leave the accommodation, or the amount of warning which you must give your landlord if you want to leave.
If you live in part of the same house as the landlord, you are a licensee. The contract is known as a licence agreement.
Accommodation
Common words and phrases
dormitory
double room
family room
twin room
single room
double bed
youth hostel
bunk bed
fill in a form
reception
receptionist
key
book in advance
vacancies
no vacancies
dormitory
double room
family room
twin room
single room
double bed
youth hostel
bunk bed
fill in a form
reception
receptionist
key
book in advance
vacancies
no vacancies
Accomodation
Common words and phrases
dormitory
double room
family room
twin room
single room
double bed
youth hostel
bunk bed
fill in a form
reception
receptionist
key
book in advance
vacancies
no vacancies
dormitory
double room
family room
twin room
single room
double bed
youth hostel
bunk bed
fill in a form
reception
receptionist
key
book in advance
vacancies
no vacancies
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
Tourism
Tourism is becoming more and more important - especially for those learning English. Here is a two part lesson which focuses on the question of developing tourism as an industry in your local town. Students need to develop concepts, discuss local economic problems and solutions to those problems, think about possible negative impacts and finally make a presentation. These two lessons provide a great long term project for upper level students, while offering an opportunity to use English in a number of "authentic" settings.
Let's Do Tourism - Part 1
Aim: Discussion, explaining, reasoning, agreeing and disagreeing
Activity: Tourism - Do we need it? Discussion of pros and cons of developing local tourism
Level: Upper intermediate to advanced
Outline:
Split students into two groups - one group representatives of 'Let's Do Tourism', a tourism development company. The other group representatives of the residents of your city and are in opposition to the plans of 'Let's Do tourism'.
Give each student a copy of one of the discussion notes.
Ask students if they have any questions on the explanatory notes.
Give students fifteen minutes to prepare for the discussion in their groups. Students should discuss the points mentioned and any other points they may come up with in their groups.
Circulate around the classroom helping students and taking notes on common language problems.
Have students get back together and try to convince you (or another chosen group of students) of their reasoning.
Begin the activity follow-up by going over some of the more common mistakes made by students.
Finish the activity as a class by asking each student to choose one reason either for or against the project. Each student should then disucuss one of the points in front of the rest of the class. Ask other students to comment on the arguments presented.
Your Town, The Next Tourist Paradise?
A company called 'let's Do Tourism' is panning to invest a large amount of money to turn your town into a major center for tourists. They have made plans to manufacture a number of hotels and other tourist infrastructure in your town. As well as the hotels, they have also made plans to radically improve the night life in your town by opening a string of clubs and bars. They hope that by the year 2004 your town will be a major competitor within the tourist industry in your country.
Group 1
You are representatives of 'Let's Do Tourism' your aim is to promote the plans of your company and to convince me that tourism is the best solutions for your city. points to concentrate on:
The increase in jobs that will come with the increase in investment.
They money that the tourists will bring into the local economy
The progress and development of your city which will result in it becoming more important with not only your region, but also your country as well.
Better for the young people of your city as there will be much more investment in leisure industries.
Group 2
You are the representatives of the residents of your city and are in opposition to the plans of 'Let's Do tourism'. Your aim is to convince me that this is a bad idea for your town. Points to consider:
Environmental issues - tourists = pollution
Troublemakers - many tourists have no respect for the places they visit and are only interested in getting drunk and causing trouble.
The rise in tourism will bring about radical changes and will result in the traditional way of life in your town being lost. Perhaps forever.
Rather than promoting the position of your city in your country, this move will make your city the laughing stock of your country.
Let's Do Tourism - Part 2
Aim: Discussion, use of present perfect, present perfect continuous, second conditional, presentation skills
Activity: Tourism - Let's Do Tourism - presentation of tourism scheme developed by student groups
Level: Upper intermediate to advanced
Outline:
Split students into two or more groups - each group is going to compete for a contract to develop a new tourism center in your town.
Give each student a copy of one of the discussion notes.
Ask students if they have any questions on the explanatory notes.
Give students fifteen minutes to prepare for the discussion in their groups. Students should discuss the points mentioned and any other points they may come up with in their groups.
Circulate around the classroom helping students and taking notes on common language problems as they work through the project.
Once each group has completed their presentation, have each group deliver its presentation doing its best to convince you of their strategy.
Take notes and try to ask as many probing questions as possible forcing students to think on their feet in English.
Once students have made their presentations make a decision. I would highly recommend you make your decision based on the English in the presentations. This will enable you to make excuses when students disagree with your decision!
Your Town, The Next Tourist Paradise?
Tourism Hits Your Town
The town council has decided that the city is in desperate need of an economic boost. They believe that by making the city more attractive to tourists they will be able to achieve their aims.
You are representatives of rival companies who are looking to gain the contract for this re-development from the council. I want you to give a detailed presentation explaining why your company is the best one for the job. Your aim is to convince the representative of the council that your company offers the best solution. Points to consider
Think of a name for your company.
Preparation, what has your company done so far i.e. raised money, support (present perfect)
Plans that are in progress. Who you have been talking to, what you have been trying to do, what you have been building, etc. (present perfect continuous)
Explain the problems that have existed within your town up to this point in time. i.e. life in your town has been boring for too may years and needs a change, or that too many people are unemployed and need to find work. (second conditional)
Finally, conclude your presentation with a short account that sells your company to the council.
Let's Do Tourism - Part 1
Aim: Discussion, explaining, reasoning, agreeing and disagreeing
Activity: Tourism - Do we need it? Discussion of pros and cons of developing local tourism
Level: Upper intermediate to advanced
Outline:
Split students into two groups - one group representatives of 'Let's Do Tourism', a tourism development company. The other group representatives of the residents of your city and are in opposition to the plans of 'Let's Do tourism'.
Give each student a copy of one of the discussion notes.
Ask students if they have any questions on the explanatory notes.
Give students fifteen minutes to prepare for the discussion in their groups. Students should discuss the points mentioned and any other points they may come up with in their groups.
Circulate around the classroom helping students and taking notes on common language problems.
Have students get back together and try to convince you (or another chosen group of students) of their reasoning.
Begin the activity follow-up by going over some of the more common mistakes made by students.
Finish the activity as a class by asking each student to choose one reason either for or against the project. Each student should then disucuss one of the points in front of the rest of the class. Ask other students to comment on the arguments presented.
Your Town, The Next Tourist Paradise?
A company called 'let's Do Tourism' is panning to invest a large amount of money to turn your town into a major center for tourists. They have made plans to manufacture a number of hotels and other tourist infrastructure in your town. As well as the hotels, they have also made plans to radically improve the night life in your town by opening a string of clubs and bars. They hope that by the year 2004 your town will be a major competitor within the tourist industry in your country.
Group 1
You are representatives of 'Let's Do Tourism' your aim is to promote the plans of your company and to convince me that tourism is the best solutions for your city. points to concentrate on:
The increase in jobs that will come with the increase in investment.
They money that the tourists will bring into the local economy
The progress and development of your city which will result in it becoming more important with not only your region, but also your country as well.
Better for the young people of your city as there will be much more investment in leisure industries.
Group 2
You are the representatives of the residents of your city and are in opposition to the plans of 'Let's Do tourism'. Your aim is to convince me that this is a bad idea for your town. Points to consider:
Environmental issues - tourists = pollution
Troublemakers - many tourists have no respect for the places they visit and are only interested in getting drunk and causing trouble.
The rise in tourism will bring about radical changes and will result in the traditional way of life in your town being lost. Perhaps forever.
Rather than promoting the position of your city in your country, this move will make your city the laughing stock of your country.
Let's Do Tourism - Part 2
Aim: Discussion, use of present perfect, present perfect continuous, second conditional, presentation skills
Activity: Tourism - Let's Do Tourism - presentation of tourism scheme developed by student groups
Level: Upper intermediate to advanced
Outline:
Split students into two or more groups - each group is going to compete for a contract to develop a new tourism center in your town.
Give each student a copy of one of the discussion notes.
Ask students if they have any questions on the explanatory notes.
Give students fifteen minutes to prepare for the discussion in their groups. Students should discuss the points mentioned and any other points they may come up with in their groups.
Circulate around the classroom helping students and taking notes on common language problems as they work through the project.
Once each group has completed their presentation, have each group deliver its presentation doing its best to convince you of their strategy.
Take notes and try to ask as many probing questions as possible forcing students to think on their feet in English.
Once students have made their presentations make a decision. I would highly recommend you make your decision based on the English in the presentations. This will enable you to make excuses when students disagree with your decision!
Your Town, The Next Tourist Paradise?
Tourism Hits Your Town
The town council has decided that the city is in desperate need of an economic boost. They believe that by making the city more attractive to tourists they will be able to achieve their aims.
You are representatives of rival companies who are looking to gain the contract for this re-development from the council. I want you to give a detailed presentation explaining why your company is the best one for the job. Your aim is to convince the representative of the council that your company offers the best solution. Points to consider
Think of a name for your company.
Preparation, what has your company done so far i.e. raised money, support (present perfect)
Plans that are in progress. Who you have been talking to, what you have been trying to do, what you have been building, etc. (present perfect continuous)
Explain the problems that have existed within your town up to this point in time. i.e. life in your town has been boring for too may years and needs a change, or that too many people are unemployed and need to find work. (second conditional)
Finally, conclude your presentation with a short account that sells your company to the council.
Monday, April 5, 2010
EMPLOYMENT - WORK
Assessment Evaluation of one's abilities
Apply Submit an application for a job or position
Background Education - qualifications - experience
Bonus Additional payment to an employee as an incentive
or reward
Curriculum Vitae Summary of one's education and experience to date;
résumé
Dismiss Discharge from employment; (to fire, to sack, to let go)
Employee Person who works for a firm or company
Employer Person or firm who employs people
Fire To dismiss from a job.
Fringe benefits Advantages offered in addition to salary (life insurance,
retirement scheme, company car, etc.).
Also called "perks", abbreviation for perquisites.
Interview Oral examination of an applicant for employment
Make redundant Dismiss for economic reasons
Maternity leave Period of absence for a female employee when having
a baby
Notice Advance warning of intention to leave one's job -
to give or hand in one's resignation
Personnel People who work for a firm or company (employees)
Personnel officer Manager responsible for recruitment, training and welfare
of personnel (employees)
Promotion Advancement in rank or position in the company
Prospects Opportunities for success or promotion in a career
Recruit Look for and hire personnel
Resign Leave a job voluntarily
Retire Leave employment because of age
Sick leave Absence because of illness - to be on sick leave
Staff People who work for a firm or department; employees
Strength Strong characteristic or particular ability
Strike To go on strike : to stop working in protest against
something
Take on Employ or hire
Trainee Person being trained for a job e.g. a trainee salesman
Training course A course of study to prepare for a job
e.g. a computer course
Unemployment
benefits Payments made by the state to an unemployed person
Vacancy A position to be filled
Weakness A lack of ability or a shortcoming in character
Apply Submit an application for a job or position
Background Education - qualifications - experience
Bonus Additional payment to an employee as an incentive
or reward
Curriculum Vitae Summary of one's education and experience to date;
résumé
Dismiss Discharge from employment; (to fire, to sack, to let go)
Employee Person who works for a firm or company
Employer Person or firm who employs people
Fire To dismiss from a job.
Fringe benefits Advantages offered in addition to salary (life insurance,
retirement scheme, company car, etc.).
Also called "perks", abbreviation for perquisites.
Interview Oral examination of an applicant for employment
Make redundant Dismiss for economic reasons
Maternity leave Period of absence for a female employee when having
a baby
Notice Advance warning of intention to leave one's job -
to give or hand in one's resignation
Personnel People who work for a firm or company (employees)
Personnel officer Manager responsible for recruitment, training and welfare
of personnel (employees)
Promotion Advancement in rank or position in the company
Prospects Opportunities for success or promotion in a career
Recruit Look for and hire personnel
Resign Leave a job voluntarily
Retire Leave employment because of age
Sick leave Absence because of illness - to be on sick leave
Staff People who work for a firm or department; employees
Strength Strong characteristic or particular ability
Strike To go on strike : to stop working in protest against
something
Take on Employ or hire
Trainee Person being trained for a job e.g. a trainee salesman
Training course A course of study to prepare for a job
e.g. a computer course
Unemployment
benefits Payments made by the state to an unemployed person
Vacancy A position to be filled
Weakness A lack of ability or a shortcoming in character
Job Application (66 Words)
address
age
apply
area code
birthday
certification
children
citizenship
city
college
country
criminal record
date
date of birth
dependents
diploma
divorced
education
educational background
elementary school
employee
employer
experience
family name
felony record
female
fired
first name
gender
graduate school
handicap
hearing
height
high school
husband's name
junior college
junior high school
last name
male
marital status
married
middle name
name
next of kin
notify
occupation
phone number
physical examination
position
present address
previous experience
quit
reason for leaving
relatives
salary
separated
single
skills
social security number
state
street
telephone number
vision
weight
wife's name
zip code
age
apply
area code
birthday
certification
children
citizenship
city
college
country
criminal record
date
date of birth
dependents
diploma
divorced
education
educational background
elementary school
employee
employer
experience
family name
felony record
female
fired
first name
gender
graduate school
handicap
hearing
height
high school
husband's name
junior college
junior high school
last name
male
marital status
married
middle name
name
next of kin
notify
occupation
phone number
physical examination
position
present address
previous experience
quit
reason for leaving
relatives
salary
separated
single
skills
social security number
state
street
telephone number
vision
weight
wife's name
zip code
What is a CV?
Curriculum Vitae: an outline of a person's educational and professional history, usually prepared for job applications (L, lit.: the course of one's life). Another name for a CV is a résumé.
A CV is the most flexible and convenient way to make applications. It conveys your personal details in the way that presents you in the best possible light and can be used to make multiple applications to employers in a specific career area. For this reason, many large graduate recruiters will not accept CVs and instead use their own application form.
An application form is designed to bring out the essential information and personal qualities that the employer requires and does not allow you to gloss over your weaker points as a CV does. In addition, the time needed to fill out these forms is seen as a reflection of your commitment to the career.
There is no "one best way" to construct a CV; it is your document and can be structured as you wish within the basic framework below. It can be on paper or on-line or even on a T-shirt (a gimmicky approach that might work for "creative" jobs but not generally advised!).
When should a CV be used?
When an employer asks for applications to be received in this format
When an employer simply states "apply to ..." without specifying the format
When making speculative applications (when writing to an employer who has not advertised a vacancy but who you hope my have one)
What information should a CV include?
Personal details
Normally these would be your name, address, date of birth (although with age discrimination laws now in force this isn't essential), telephone number and email.
Education and qualifications
Your degree subject and university, plus A levels and GCSEs or equivalents. Mention grades unless poor!
Work experience
Use action words such as developed, planned and organised.
Even work in a shop, bar or restaurant will involve working in a team, providing a quality service to customers, and dealing tactfully with complaints. Don't mention the routine, non-people tasks (cleaning the tables) unless you are applying for a casual summer job in a restaurant or similar.
Try to relate the skills to the job. A finance job will involve numeracy, analytical and problem solving skills so focus on these whereas for a marketing role you would place a bit more more emphasis on persuading and negotiating skills.
Interests and achievements
Keep this section short and to the point. As you grow older, your employment record will take precedence and interests will typically diminish greatly in length and importance.
Bullets can be used to separate interests into different types: sporting, creative etc.
Don't use the old boring cliches here: "socialising with friends".
Don't put many passive, solitary hobbies (reading, watching TV, stamp collecting) or you may be perceived as lacking people skills.
Show a range of interests to avoid coming across as narrow : if everything centres around sport they may wonder if you could hold a conversation with a client who wasn't interested in sport.
Hobbies that are a little out of the ordinary can help you to stand out from the crowd: skydiving or mountaineering can show a sense of wanting to stretch yourself and an ability to rely on yourself in demanding situations
Any interests relevant to the job are worth mentioning: current affairs if you wish to be a journalist; a fantasy share portfolio such as Bullbearings if you want to work in finance.
Any evidence of leadership is important to mention: captain or coach of a sports team, course representative, chair of a student society, scout leader.
Anything showing evidence of employability skills such as teamworking, organising, planning, persuading, negotiating etc.
Skills
The usual ones to mention are languages (good conversational French, basic Spanish), computing (e.g. "good working knowledge of MS Access and Excel, plus basic web page design skills" and driving ("full current clean driving licence").
If you are a mature candidate or have lots of relevant skills to offer, a skills-based CV may work for you
Referees
Normally two referees are sufficient: one academic (perhaps your tutor or a project supervisor) and one from an employer (perhaps your last part-time or summer job). See our page on Choosing and Using Referees for more help with this.
The order and the emphasis will depend on what you are applying for and what you have to offer. For example, the example media CV lists the candidate's relevant work experience first.
If you are applying for more than one type of work, you should have a different CV tailored to each career area, highlighting different aspects of your skills and experience.
Writing about your interests
Reading, cinema, stamp-collecting, embroidery
Suggests a solitary individual who doesn't get on with other people. This may not be true, but selectors will interpret the evidence they see before them.
Reading, cinema, travel, socialising with friends.
A little better. At least a suggestion that they can get on with other people.
Cinema: member of the University Film-Making Society
Travel: travelled through Europe by train this summer in a group of four people, visiting historic sites and practising my French and Italian
Reading: helped younger pupils with reading difficulties at school.
This could be the same individual as in the first example, but the impression is completely the opposite: an outgoing proactive individual who help others.
A personal profile at the start of the CV can work for jobs in competitive industries such as the media or advertising, to help you to stand out from the crowd. If used, it needs to be original and well written. Don’t just use the usual hackneyed expressions: “I am an excellent communicator who works well in a team…… “
You will also need a Covering Letter to accompany your CV.
What makes a good CV?
There is no single "correct" way to write and present a CV but the following general rules apply:
It is targeted on the specific job or career area for which you are applying and brings out the relevant skills you have to offer
It is carefully and clearly laid out: logically ordered, easy to read and not cramped
It is informative but concise
It is accurate in content, spelling and grammar
How long should a CV be?
There are no absolute rules but, in general, a new graduate's CV should cover no more than two sides of A4 paper.
If you can summarise your career history comfortably on a single side, this is fine and has advantages when you are making speculative applications and need to put yourself across concisely. However, you should not leave out important items, or crowd your text too closely together in order to fit it onto that single side. Academic and technical CVs may be much longer: up to 4 or 5 sides.
Tips on presentation
Your CV should be carefully and clearly laid out - not too cramped but not with large empty spaces either. Use bold and italic typefaces for headings and important information
Never back a CV - each page should be on a separate sheet of paper. It's a good idea to put your name in the footer area so that it appears on each sheet.
Be concise - a CV is an appetiser and should not give the reader indigestion. Don't feel that you have to list every exam you have ever taken, or every activity you have ever been involved in - consider which are the most relevant and/or impressive.
Be positive - put yourself over confidently and highlight your strong points. For example, when listing your A-levels, put your highest grade first.
Curriculum Vitae: an outline of a person's educational and professional history, usually prepared for job applications (L, lit.: the course of one's life). Another name for a CV is a résumé.
A CV is the most flexible and convenient way to make applications. It conveys your personal details in the way that presents you in the best possible light and can be used to make multiple applications to employers in a specific career area. For this reason, many large graduate recruiters will not accept CVs and instead use their own application form.
An application form is designed to bring out the essential information and personal qualities that the employer requires and does not allow you to gloss over your weaker points as a CV does. In addition, the time needed to fill out these forms is seen as a reflection of your commitment to the career.
There is no "one best way" to construct a CV; it is your document and can be structured as you wish within the basic framework below. It can be on paper or on-line or even on a T-shirt (a gimmicky approach that might work for "creative" jobs but not generally advised!).
When should a CV be used?
When an employer asks for applications to be received in this format
When an employer simply states "apply to ..." without specifying the format
When making speculative applications (when writing to an employer who has not advertised a vacancy but who you hope my have one)
What information should a CV include?
Personal details
Normally these would be your name, address, date of birth (although with age discrimination laws now in force this isn't essential), telephone number and email.
Education and qualifications
Your degree subject and university, plus A levels and GCSEs or equivalents. Mention grades unless poor!
Work experience
Use action words such as developed, planned and organised.
Even work in a shop, bar or restaurant will involve working in a team, providing a quality service to customers, and dealing tactfully with complaints. Don't mention the routine, non-people tasks (cleaning the tables) unless you are applying for a casual summer job in a restaurant or similar.
Try to relate the skills to the job. A finance job will involve numeracy, analytical and problem solving skills so focus on these whereas for a marketing role you would place a bit more more emphasis on persuading and negotiating skills.
Interests and achievements
Keep this section short and to the point. As you grow older, your employment record will take precedence and interests will typically diminish greatly in length and importance.
Bullets can be used to separate interests into different types: sporting, creative etc.
Don't use the old boring cliches here: "socialising with friends".
Don't put many passive, solitary hobbies (reading, watching TV, stamp collecting) or you may be perceived as lacking people skills.
Show a range of interests to avoid coming across as narrow : if everything centres around sport they may wonder if you could hold a conversation with a client who wasn't interested in sport.
Hobbies that are a little out of the ordinary can help you to stand out from the crowd: skydiving or mountaineering can show a sense of wanting to stretch yourself and an ability to rely on yourself in demanding situations
Any interests relevant to the job are worth mentioning: current affairs if you wish to be a journalist; a fantasy share portfolio such as Bullbearings if you want to work in finance.
Any evidence of leadership is important to mention: captain or coach of a sports team, course representative, chair of a student society, scout leader.
Anything showing evidence of employability skills such as teamworking, organising, planning, persuading, negotiating etc.
Skills
The usual ones to mention are languages (good conversational French, basic Spanish), computing (e.g. "good working knowledge of MS Access and Excel, plus basic web page design skills" and driving ("full current clean driving licence").
If you are a mature candidate or have lots of relevant skills to offer, a skills-based CV may work for you
Referees
Normally two referees are sufficient: one academic (perhaps your tutor or a project supervisor) and one from an employer (perhaps your last part-time or summer job). See our page on Choosing and Using Referees for more help with this.
The order and the emphasis will depend on what you are applying for and what you have to offer. For example, the example media CV lists the candidate's relevant work experience first.
If you are applying for more than one type of work, you should have a different CV tailored to each career area, highlighting different aspects of your skills and experience.
Writing about your interests
Reading, cinema, stamp-collecting, embroidery
Suggests a solitary individual who doesn't get on with other people. This may not be true, but selectors will interpret the evidence they see before them.
Reading, cinema, travel, socialising with friends.
A little better. At least a suggestion that they can get on with other people.
Cinema: member of the University Film-Making Society
Travel: travelled through Europe by train this summer in a group of four people, visiting historic sites and practising my French and Italian
Reading: helped younger pupils with reading difficulties at school.
This could be the same individual as in the first example, but the impression is completely the opposite: an outgoing proactive individual who help others.
A personal profile at the start of the CV can work for jobs in competitive industries such as the media or advertising, to help you to stand out from the crowd. If used, it needs to be original and well written. Don’t just use the usual hackneyed expressions: “I am an excellent communicator who works well in a team…… “
You will also need a Covering Letter to accompany your CV.
What makes a good CV?
There is no single "correct" way to write and present a CV but the following general rules apply:
It is targeted on the specific job or career area for which you are applying and brings out the relevant skills you have to offer
It is carefully and clearly laid out: logically ordered, easy to read and not cramped
It is informative but concise
It is accurate in content, spelling and grammar
How long should a CV be?
There are no absolute rules but, in general, a new graduate's CV should cover no more than two sides of A4 paper.
If you can summarise your career history comfortably on a single side, this is fine and has advantages when you are making speculative applications and need to put yourself across concisely. However, you should not leave out important items, or crowd your text too closely together in order to fit it onto that single side. Academic and technical CVs may be much longer: up to 4 or 5 sides.
Tips on presentation
Your CV should be carefully and clearly laid out - not too cramped but not with large empty spaces either. Use bold and italic typefaces for headings and important information
Never back a CV - each page should be on a separate sheet of paper. It's a good idea to put your name in the footer area so that it appears on each sheet.
Be concise - a CV is an appetiser and should not give the reader indigestion. Don't feel that you have to list every exam you have ever taken, or every activity you have ever been involved in - consider which are the most relevant and/or impressive.
Be positive - put yourself over confidently and highlight your strong points. For example, when listing your A-levels, put your highest grade first.
What is a CV?
Curriculum Vitae: an outline of a person's educational and professional history, usually prepared for job applications (L, lit.: the course of one's life). Another name for a CV is a résumé.
A CV is the most flexible and convenient way to make applications. It conveys your personal details in the way that presents you in the best possible light and can be used to make multiple applications to employers in a specific career area. For this reason, many large graduate recruiters will not accept CVs and instead use their own application form.
An application form is designed to bring out the essential information and personal qualities that the employer requires and does not allow you to gloss over your weaker points as a CV does. In addition, the time needed to fill out these forms is seen as a reflection of your commitment to the career.
There is no "one best way" to construct a CV; it is your document and can be structured as you wish within the basic framework below. It can be on paper or on-line or even on a T-shirt (a gimmicky approach that might work for "creative" jobs but not generally advised!).
When should a CV be used?
When an employer asks for applications to be received in this format
When an employer simply states "apply to ..." without specifying the format
When making speculative applications (when writing to an employer who has not advertised a vacancy but who you hope my have one)
What information should a CV include?
Personal details
Normally these would be your name, address, date of birth (although with age discrimination laws now in force this isn't essential), telephone number and email.
Education and qualifications
Your degree subject and university, plus A levels and GCSEs or equivalents. Mention grades unless poor!
Work experience
Use action words such as developed, planned and organised.
Even work in a shop, bar or restaurant will involve working in a team, providing a quality service to customers, and dealing tactfully with complaints. Don't mention the routine, non-people tasks (cleaning the tables) unless you are applying for a casual summer job in a restaurant or similar.
Try to relate the skills to the job. A finance job will involve numeracy, analytical and problem solving skills so focus on these whereas for a marketing role you would place a bit more more emphasis on persuading and negotiating skills.
Interests and achievements
Keep this section short and to the point. As you grow older, your employment record will take precedence and interests will typically diminish greatly in length and importance.
Bullets can be used to separate interests into different types: sporting, creative etc.
Don't use the old boring cliches here: "socialising with friends".
Don't put many passive, solitary hobbies (reading, watching TV, stamp collecting) or you may be perceived as lacking people skills.
Show a range of interests to avoid coming across as narrow : if everything centres around sport they may wonder if you could hold a conversation with a client who wasn't interested in sport.
Hobbies that are a little out of the ordinary can help you to stand out from the crowd: skydiving or mountaineering can show a sense of wanting to stretch yourself and an ability to rely on yourself in demanding situations
Any interests relevant to the job are worth mentioning: current affairs if you wish to be a journalist; a fantasy share portfolio such as Bullbearings if you want to work in finance.
Any evidence of leadership is important to mention: captain or coach of a sports team, course representative, chair of a student society, scout leader.
Anything showing evidence of employability skills such as teamworking, organising, planning, persuading, negotiating etc.
Skills
The usual ones to mention are languages (good conversational French, basic Spanish), computing (e.g. "good working knowledge of MS Access and Excel, plus basic web page design skills" and driving ("full current clean driving licence").
If you are a mature candidate or have lots of relevant skills to offer, a skills-based CV may work for you
Referees
Normally two referees are sufficient: one academic (perhaps your tutor or a project supervisor) and one from an employer (perhaps your last part-time or summer job). See our page on Choosing and Using Referees for more help with this.
The order and the emphasis will depend on what you are applying for and what you have to offer. For example, the example media CV lists the candidate's relevant work experience first.
If you are applying for more than one type of work, you should have a different CV tailored to each career area, highlighting different aspects of your skills and experience.
Writing about your interests
Reading, cinema, stamp-collecting, embroidery
Suggests a solitary individual who doesn't get on with other people. This may not be true, but selectors will interpret the evidence they see before them.
Reading, cinema, travel, socialising with friends.
A little better. At least a suggestion that they can get on with other people.
Cinema: member of the University Film-Making Society
Travel: travelled through Europe by train this summer in a group of four people, visiting historic sites and practising my French and Italian
Reading: helped younger pupils with reading difficulties at school.
This could be the same individual as in the first example, but the impression is completely the opposite: an outgoing proactive individual who help others.
A personal profile at the start of the CV can work for jobs in competitive industries such as the media or advertising, to help you to stand out from the crowd. If used, it needs to be original and well written. Don’t just use the usual hackneyed expressions: “I am an excellent communicator who works well in a team…… “
You will also need a Covering Letter to accompany your CV.
What makes a good CV?
There is no single "correct" way to write and present a CV but the following general rules apply:
It is targeted on the specific job or career area for which you are applying and brings out the relevant skills you have to offer
It is carefully and clearly laid out: logically ordered, easy to read and not cramped
It is informative but concise
It is accurate in content, spelling and grammar
How long should a CV be?
There are no absolute rules but, in general, a new graduate's CV should cover no more than two sides of A4 paper.
If you can summarise your career history comfortably on a single side, this is fine and has advantages when you are making speculative applications and need to put yourself across concisely. However, you should not leave out important items, or crowd your text too closely together in order to fit it onto that single side. Academic and technical CVs may be much longer: up to 4 or 5 sides.
Tips on presentation
Your CV should be carefully and clearly laid out - not too cramped but not with large empty spaces either. Use bold and italic typefaces for headings and important information
Never back a CV - each page should be on a separate sheet of paper. It's a good idea to put your name in the footer area so that it appears on each sheet.
Be concise - a CV is an appetiser and should not give the reader indigestion. Don't feel that you have to list every exam you have ever taken, or every activity you have ever been involved in - consider which are the most relevant and/or impressive.
Be positive - put yourself over confidently and highlight your strong points. For example, when listing your A-levels, put your highest grade first.
Choose a sensible email address!
Here are some (slightly changed) graduate email addresses:
death_metal_kitty@hotmilk.com
demented_bovine@gnumail.com
so_kiss_me@hotmilk.com
platypus_mcdandruff@gnumail.com
busty-beth@gnumail.com
flockynockyhillipilification@gnumail.com
virgin_on_the_ridiculous@hotmilk.com
yourmywifenowgraham@gnumail.com
original_madcow_jane@gnumail.com
circle-of-despair@gnumail.com
rage_against_the_trolley_fish@mail.com
sexylikewoaaaah@hotmilk.com
Be honest - although a CV does allow you to omit details (such as exam resits) which you would prefer the employer not to know about, you should never give inaccurate or misleading information.
The sweet spot of a CV is the area selectors tend to pay most attention to: this is typically around the upper middle of the first page, so make sure that this area contains essential information.
If you are posting your CV, don't fold it - put it in a full-size A4 envelope so that it doesn't arrive creased.
Research by forum3 (recruitment and volunteering for the not-for-profit sector) suggested:
Graduates sent out 25 letters per interview gained.
The average graduate will send out about 70 CVs when looking for their first graduate job. Of these, the average number of responses will be 7 including 3 to 4 polite rejections and the remainder inviting the graduate to interview or further contact.
There was a direct link between the number of CVs sent out and the number of interviews gained: the more CVs you send out the more interviews you will get.
Applicants who included a covering letter with their CV were 10% more likely to get a reply.
60% of CVs are mailed to the wrong person: usually the managing director. Applicants who addressed their application to the correct named person were 15% more likely to get a letter of acknowledgement and 5% more likely to get an interview
Applicants sending CVs and letters without spelling mistakes are 61% more likely to get a reply and 26% more likely to get an interview. "In the age of the spell checker, there is no excuse for spelling mistakes". The most common mistakes to not show up in a spell check were: fro instead of for, grate instead of great, liased instead of liaised and stationary instead of stationery.
Set your spell checker to UK English (assuming you are British) or you will get center
instead of centre, and color instead of colour.
Other turn-offs include:
misspelling the name of the company or the addressee,
not having a reply address on the CV
trying to be amusing.
Why you need to use a spell checker
I would like a job in the servillian police
I am applying for a mini-pupiledge
I am a prefectionist and rarely if if ever forget details.
Proven ability to track down and correct erors.
I have good writen comunication skills.
Lurnt Word Perfect computor and spreadsheet pogroms.
Develop an annual operating expense fudget…
And why you must read it carefully as well
I was a prefect and pier mentor
I would like to do a law conversion cause
Extra Circular Activities
But I was not aloud to be captain
At secondary school I was a prefix
In my spare time I enjoy hiding my horse
I hope to hear from you shorty
I have a desire to work with commuters
Dear Madman (instead of Madam)
My hobbits include - instead of 'hobbies'
I am sicking and entry-level position
I have a friendly manor
Oversight of an entire department
Restaurant skills: Severing customers
In charge of sock control - instead of 'stock control'
I’m an accurate and rabid typist
Abilty to meet deadlines while maintaining my composer
Instrumental in ruining an entire operation for a chain operator
Suspected to graduate early next year
For a PR job: I have a long term interest in pubic relations
I want experience in a big sex practice
Vox pox for BBC Radio, which enhanced my ability to analyse and synthesise information
A ' full shit system’ instead of ‘a full shift system’
Enthusiasm was needed in order to communicate information in an interesting manor.
I own and maintain a volts wagon beetle.
As indicted, I have over 5 years of analysing investments.
On an application to work with teenagers – I am experienced in teaching marital arts
Relevant work experience’: followed by ‘Irrelevant work experience’
My role included typing in details of accounts, customer liaison and money-laundering duties.
Thesaurusitis (using the wrong synonym!)
I demand a salary commiserate with my extensive experience
Reason for leaving last job: maturity leave
I am a conscious individual.
Received a plague for salesman of the year.
I was formally in a music group in which I performed in three conservative years.
Fonts
Curriculum Vitae: an outline of a person's educational and professional history, usually prepared for job applications (L, lit.: the course of one's life). Another name for a CV is a résumé.
A CV is the most flexible and convenient way to make applications. It conveys your personal details in the way that presents you in the best possible light and can be used to make multiple applications to employers in a specific career area. For this reason, many large graduate recruiters will not accept CVs and instead use their own application form.
An application form is designed to bring out the essential information and personal qualities that the employer requires and does not allow you to gloss over your weaker points as a CV does. In addition, the time needed to fill out these forms is seen as a reflection of your commitment to the career.
There is no "one best way" to construct a CV; it is your document and can be structured as you wish within the basic framework below. It can be on paper or on-line or even on a T-shirt (a gimmicky approach that might work for "creative" jobs but not generally advised!).
When should a CV be used?
When an employer asks for applications to be received in this format
When an employer simply states "apply to ..." without specifying the format
When making speculative applications (when writing to an employer who has not advertised a vacancy but who you hope my have one)
What information should a CV include?
Personal details
Normally these would be your name, address, date of birth (although with age discrimination laws now in force this isn't essential), telephone number and email.
Education and qualifications
Your degree subject and university, plus A levels and GCSEs or equivalents. Mention grades unless poor!
Work experience
Use action words such as developed, planned and organised.
Even work in a shop, bar or restaurant will involve working in a team, providing a quality service to customers, and dealing tactfully with complaints. Don't mention the routine, non-people tasks (cleaning the tables) unless you are applying for a casual summer job in a restaurant or similar.
Try to relate the skills to the job. A finance job will involve numeracy, analytical and problem solving skills so focus on these whereas for a marketing role you would place a bit more more emphasis on persuading and negotiating skills.
Interests and achievements
Keep this section short and to the point. As you grow older, your employment record will take precedence and interests will typically diminish greatly in length and importance.
Bullets can be used to separate interests into different types: sporting, creative etc.
Don't use the old boring cliches here: "socialising with friends".
Don't put many passive, solitary hobbies (reading, watching TV, stamp collecting) or you may be perceived as lacking people skills.
Show a range of interests to avoid coming across as narrow : if everything centres around sport they may wonder if you could hold a conversation with a client who wasn't interested in sport.
Hobbies that are a little out of the ordinary can help you to stand out from the crowd: skydiving or mountaineering can show a sense of wanting to stretch yourself and an ability to rely on yourself in demanding situations
Any interests relevant to the job are worth mentioning: current affairs if you wish to be a journalist; a fantasy share portfolio such as Bullbearings if you want to work in finance.
Any evidence of leadership is important to mention: captain or coach of a sports team, course representative, chair of a student society, scout leader.
Anything showing evidence of employability skills such as teamworking, organising, planning, persuading, negotiating etc.
Skills
The usual ones to mention are languages (good conversational French, basic Spanish), computing (e.g. "good working knowledge of MS Access and Excel, plus basic web page design skills" and driving ("full current clean driving licence").
If you are a mature candidate or have lots of relevant skills to offer, a skills-based CV may work for you
Referees
Normally two referees are sufficient: one academic (perhaps your tutor or a project supervisor) and one from an employer (perhaps your last part-time or summer job). See our page on Choosing and Using Referees for more help with this.
The order and the emphasis will depend on what you are applying for and what you have to offer. For example, the example media CV lists the candidate's relevant work experience first.
If you are applying for more than one type of work, you should have a different CV tailored to each career area, highlighting different aspects of your skills and experience.
Writing about your interests
Reading, cinema, stamp-collecting, embroidery
Suggests a solitary individual who doesn't get on with other people. This may not be true, but selectors will interpret the evidence they see before them.
Reading, cinema, travel, socialising with friends.
A little better. At least a suggestion that they can get on with other people.
Cinema: member of the University Film-Making Society
Travel: travelled through Europe by train this summer in a group of four people, visiting historic sites and practising my French and Italian
Reading: helped younger pupils with reading difficulties at school.
This could be the same individual as in the first example, but the impression is completely the opposite: an outgoing proactive individual who help others.
A personal profile at the start of the CV can work for jobs in competitive industries such as the media or advertising, to help you to stand out from the crowd. If used, it needs to be original and well written. Don’t just use the usual hackneyed expressions: “I am an excellent communicator who works well in a team…… “
You will also need a Covering Letter to accompany your CV.
What makes a good CV?
There is no single "correct" way to write and present a CV but the following general rules apply:
It is targeted on the specific job or career area for which you are applying and brings out the relevant skills you have to offer
It is carefully and clearly laid out: logically ordered, easy to read and not cramped
It is informative but concise
It is accurate in content, spelling and grammar
How long should a CV be?
There are no absolute rules but, in general, a new graduate's CV should cover no more than two sides of A4 paper.
If you can summarise your career history comfortably on a single side, this is fine and has advantages when you are making speculative applications and need to put yourself across concisely. However, you should not leave out important items, or crowd your text too closely together in order to fit it onto that single side. Academic and technical CVs may be much longer: up to 4 or 5 sides.
Tips on presentation
Your CV should be carefully and clearly laid out - not too cramped but not with large empty spaces either. Use bold and italic typefaces for headings and important information
Never back a CV - each page should be on a separate sheet of paper. It's a good idea to put your name in the footer area so that it appears on each sheet.
Be concise - a CV is an appetiser and should not give the reader indigestion. Don't feel that you have to list every exam you have ever taken, or every activity you have ever been involved in - consider which are the most relevant and/or impressive.
Be positive - put yourself over confidently and highlight your strong points. For example, when listing your A-levels, put your highest grade first.
Choose a sensible email address!
Here are some (slightly changed) graduate email addresses:
death_metal_kitty@hotmilk.com
demented_bovine@gnumail.com
so_kiss_me@hotmilk.com
platypus_mcdandruff@gnumail.com
busty-beth@gnumail.com
flockynockyhillipilification@gnumail.com
virgin_on_the_ridiculous@hotmilk.com
yourmywifenowgraham@gnumail.com
original_madcow_jane@gnumail.com
circle-of-despair@gnumail.com
rage_against_the_trolley_fish@mail.com
sexylikewoaaaah@hotmilk.com
Be honest - although a CV does allow you to omit details (such as exam resits) which you would prefer the employer not to know about, you should never give inaccurate or misleading information.
The sweet spot of a CV is the area selectors tend to pay most attention to: this is typically around the upper middle of the first page, so make sure that this area contains essential information.
If you are posting your CV, don't fold it - put it in a full-size A4 envelope so that it doesn't arrive creased.
Research by forum3 (recruitment and volunteering for the not-for-profit sector) suggested:
Graduates sent out 25 letters per interview gained.
The average graduate will send out about 70 CVs when looking for their first graduate job. Of these, the average number of responses will be 7 including 3 to 4 polite rejections and the remainder inviting the graduate to interview or further contact.
There was a direct link between the number of CVs sent out and the number of interviews gained: the more CVs you send out the more interviews you will get.
Applicants who included a covering letter with their CV were 10% more likely to get a reply.
60% of CVs are mailed to the wrong person: usually the managing director. Applicants who addressed their application to the correct named person were 15% more likely to get a letter of acknowledgement and 5% more likely to get an interview
Applicants sending CVs and letters without spelling mistakes are 61% more likely to get a reply and 26% more likely to get an interview. "In the age of the spell checker, there is no excuse for spelling mistakes". The most common mistakes to not show up in a spell check were: fro instead of for, grate instead of great, liased instead of liaised and stationary instead of stationery.
Set your spell checker to UK English (assuming you are British) or you will get center
instead of centre, and color instead of colour.
Other turn-offs include:
misspelling the name of the company or the addressee,
not having a reply address on the CV
trying to be amusing.
Why you need to use a spell checker
I would like a job in the servillian police
I am applying for a mini-pupiledge
I am a prefectionist and rarely if if ever forget details.
Proven ability to track down and correct erors.
I have good writen comunication skills.
Lurnt Word Perfect computor and spreadsheet pogroms.
Develop an annual operating expense fudget…
And why you must read it carefully as well
I was a prefect and pier mentor
I would like to do a law conversion cause
Extra Circular Activities
But I was not aloud to be captain
At secondary school I was a prefix
In my spare time I enjoy hiding my horse
I hope to hear from you shorty
I have a desire to work with commuters
Dear Madman (instead of Madam)
My hobbits include - instead of 'hobbies'
I am sicking and entry-level position
I have a friendly manor
Oversight of an entire department
Restaurant skills: Severing customers
In charge of sock control - instead of 'stock control'
I’m an accurate and rabid typist
Abilty to meet deadlines while maintaining my composer
Instrumental in ruining an entire operation for a chain operator
Suspected to graduate early next year
For a PR job: I have a long term interest in pubic relations
I want experience in a big sex practice
Vox pox for BBC Radio, which enhanced my ability to analyse and synthesise information
A ' full shit system’ instead of ‘a full shift system’
Enthusiasm was needed in order to communicate information in an interesting manor.
I own and maintain a volts wagon beetle.
As indicted, I have over 5 years of analysing investments.
On an application to work with teenagers – I am experienced in teaching marital arts
Relevant work experience’: followed by ‘Irrelevant work experience’
My role included typing in details of accounts, customer liaison and money-laundering duties.
Thesaurusitis (using the wrong synonym!)
I demand a salary commiserate with my extensive experience
Reason for leaving last job: maturity leave
I am a conscious individual.
Received a plague for salesman of the year.
I was formally in a music group in which I performed in three conservative years.
Fonts
to successfully complete application forms
Before you start - some do's and don'ts
DO research the company, the career area and the actual job for which you are applying. Make sure you can offer the qualifications, experience and personal skills that the employer is seeking
DO make sure you are using the right form - some employers have different forms for different job functions. DON'T use a Standard Application Form or CV where the employer specifies that you should use their own application form.
DON'T start to write on the form itself until you are perfectly certain of what you are going to say. Do your first draft on a photocopy of the form, to make sure that you can fit everything you want to include into the space available.
DO find a quiet place to fill out the form - the library, your room or wherever suits you. Keep coffee cups, chocolate bars and small children at a safe distance.
DO read the form through and follow all instructions. DO use black ink - your form will probably be photocopied and this makes it easier to read.
During my prakticals I adapted resonably to all praktical proceses and seemed to exel in turning and grinding ....
DO keep your own photocopy of each application form. When it comes to the interview stage, it is immeasurably useful to remember what you have told the employer!
For on-line applications see www.kent.ac.uk/careers/onlineapps.htm
Presentation
The form should be neat and tidy with no crossings-out or large splodges of correcting fluid.
Usually, a hand-written application form is perfectly acceptable. If your handwriting is very untidy, it is usually OK to complete the form in block capitals.
Try to fill all the space provided for your answers - too much blank space makes an application look half-hearted.
If you have the opposite problem - not enough space to say all that you need to - use a covering letter to highlight the most important points and to say more about them. It is usually OK to add an extra sheet if, for example, the form gives two centimetres of space for "A-levels or equivalent" and you have a BTEC or Baccalaureate which involved a wide range of subjects.
Include a covering letter with your form: this can be used to highlight your main skills and selling points
How not to do it: real application forms
Application for finance job: I was closely involved in every aspect of my former company, right up to its bankruptcy
Hi, I want 2 get a job with U
Finished eighth in my class of ten
I enclose a tea-bag so you can enjoy a cuppa while perusing my form
I loathe filling in application forms so much that I'll give you details at the interview
Place of birth? - A hospital
Size of employer: about 5’ 10”
My health good, that of my parents not so good.
I do not have any major achievements that I would consider to be of interest to this application.
Working on a farm has improved my communication skills which are especially important when working with large livestock.
Biscuit company application: my life-long love of chocolate biscuits, is the main reason for my interest in the company
It's best for employers that I not work with people
Application for a job needing good people skills - My hobbies include watching television, computer chess, stamp collecting and walking my 2 spaniels.
Reason for leaving last job: my employers insisted that all employees get to work by 8.45 am and I could not work under those conditions.
Primary objective: active interface with fellow homo sapiens
I am seeking challenges that test my mind and body, since the two are usually inseparable.
I have an excellent track record, although I am not a horse.
My goal is to be a meteorologist, but since I have no training I suppose I should try stockbroking instead.
The Questions
General points:
Be informative, detailed but concise in your answers: give the employer the essential detail but leave them wanting to meet you to find out more!
Keep in mind the qualities that the employer is looking for, and answer the questions in ways that will show that you have these qualities.
Don't dismiss anything as irrelevant without careful thought. Students often assume that their vacation work as a waiter, shop assistant or fruit-picker can be of no possible interest to a graduate employer. This is not so - employers can learn a great deal about your motivation and skills from jobs such as these - so do include them
Don't make lists: "reading, cinema, sport" under "Interests" will not tell the employer anything useful about you. Give details of the extent of these interests and any clubs, societies or achievements related to them.
For example, which of the following makes more impact?:
Wine, women and song
Founder of University Wine-Tasting Society; negotiated discounts with local wine merchants and organised several Society visits to Calais .
Volunteer worker at local Women's Resource Centre
Member of University choir
Competency-based questions
These are the hardest part of the form for most applicants: questions usually begin "Describe a time when you …" or "Give an example of ..." and asking for examples of specific skills such as teamwork, leadership, persuasiveness, etc
Describe how your personal planning and organisation resulted in the successful achievement of a personal or group task.
Give an example of where others have disagreed with your views. How did you deal with this?
Remember that these skills will be the ones that are essential for success with that employer – these questions are the most important on the form. They also now crop up in most graduate interviews and the best way to prepare for these interviews is to complete a few application forms with demanding competency-based (also called situational) questions. These examples could come from vacation or part-time work; university clubs and societies; voluntary work; study at school or university; holidays and travel or personal and family experiences. Planning and organising a week’s independent travel in Scotland is as valid an example as a trek through the Himalayas. Compose a paragraph or so for each situation, outlining what happened, how you approached it and what the outcome was. The focus should be on you – even if the situation involved a group, interviewers will want to know what was your specific role in achieving the desired result.
One way of answering these questions is via the STAR approach - Situation, Task, Action and Result. It's a bit like a mini essay. The Situation and Task are usually combined and form the introduction, The Action you took, should form the main body of your answer, and the Result should be your conclusion - try here to be specific if you can: "We won the cup"; "Membership of the society increased by 40%"; "We raised £400 for charity". If you failed to achieve your objective say what you learned and what you would do differently next time.
DO research the company, the career area and the actual job for which you are applying. Make sure you can offer the qualifications, experience and personal skills that the employer is seeking
DO make sure you are using the right form - some employers have different forms for different job functions. DON'T use a Standard Application Form or CV where the employer specifies that you should use their own application form.
DON'T start to write on the form itself until you are perfectly certain of what you are going to say. Do your first draft on a photocopy of the form, to make sure that you can fit everything you want to include into the space available.
DO find a quiet place to fill out the form - the library, your room or wherever suits you. Keep coffee cups, chocolate bars and small children at a safe distance.
DO read the form through and follow all instructions. DO use black ink - your form will probably be photocopied and this makes it easier to read.
During my prakticals I adapted resonably to all praktical proceses and seemed to exel in turning and grinding ....
DO keep your own photocopy of each application form. When it comes to the interview stage, it is immeasurably useful to remember what you have told the employer!
For on-line applications see www.kent.ac.uk/careers/onlineapps.htm
Presentation
The form should be neat and tidy with no crossings-out or large splodges of correcting fluid.
Usually, a hand-written application form is perfectly acceptable. If your handwriting is very untidy, it is usually OK to complete the form in block capitals.
Try to fill all the space provided for your answers - too much blank space makes an application look half-hearted.
If you have the opposite problem - not enough space to say all that you need to - use a covering letter to highlight the most important points and to say more about them. It is usually OK to add an extra sheet if, for example, the form gives two centimetres of space for "A-levels or equivalent" and you have a BTEC or Baccalaureate which involved a wide range of subjects.
Include a covering letter with your form: this can be used to highlight your main skills and selling points
How not to do it: real application forms
Application for finance job: I was closely involved in every aspect of my former company, right up to its bankruptcy
Hi, I want 2 get a job with U
Finished eighth in my class of ten
I enclose a tea-bag so you can enjoy a cuppa while perusing my form
I loathe filling in application forms so much that I'll give you details at the interview
Place of birth? - A hospital
Size of employer: about 5’ 10”
My health good, that of my parents not so good.
I do not have any major achievements that I would consider to be of interest to this application.
Working on a farm has improved my communication skills which are especially important when working with large livestock.
Biscuit company application: my life-long love of chocolate biscuits, is the main reason for my interest in the company
It's best for employers that I not work with people
Application for a job needing good people skills - My hobbies include watching television, computer chess, stamp collecting and walking my 2 spaniels.
Reason for leaving last job: my employers insisted that all employees get to work by 8.45 am and I could not work under those conditions.
Primary objective: active interface with fellow homo sapiens
I am seeking challenges that test my mind and body, since the two are usually inseparable.
I have an excellent track record, although I am not a horse.
My goal is to be a meteorologist, but since I have no training I suppose I should try stockbroking instead.
The Questions
General points:
Be informative, detailed but concise in your answers: give the employer the essential detail but leave them wanting to meet you to find out more!
Keep in mind the qualities that the employer is looking for, and answer the questions in ways that will show that you have these qualities.
Don't dismiss anything as irrelevant without careful thought. Students often assume that their vacation work as a waiter, shop assistant or fruit-picker can be of no possible interest to a graduate employer. This is not so - employers can learn a great deal about your motivation and skills from jobs such as these - so do include them
Don't make lists: "reading, cinema, sport" under "Interests" will not tell the employer anything useful about you. Give details of the extent of these interests and any clubs, societies or achievements related to them.
For example, which of the following makes more impact?:
Wine, women and song
Founder of University Wine-Tasting Society; negotiated discounts with local wine merchants and organised several Society visits to Calais .
Volunteer worker at local Women's Resource Centre
Member of University choir
Competency-based questions
These are the hardest part of the form for most applicants: questions usually begin "Describe a time when you …" or "Give an example of ..." and asking for examples of specific skills such as teamwork, leadership, persuasiveness, etc
Describe how your personal planning and organisation resulted in the successful achievement of a personal or group task.
Give an example of where others have disagreed with your views. How did you deal with this?
Remember that these skills will be the ones that are essential for success with that employer – these questions are the most important on the form. They also now crop up in most graduate interviews and the best way to prepare for these interviews is to complete a few application forms with demanding competency-based (also called situational) questions. These examples could come from vacation or part-time work; university clubs and societies; voluntary work; study at school or university; holidays and travel or personal and family experiences. Planning and organising a week’s independent travel in Scotland is as valid an example as a trek through the Himalayas. Compose a paragraph or so for each situation, outlining what happened, how you approached it and what the outcome was. The focus should be on you – even if the situation involved a group, interviewers will want to know what was your specific role in achieving the desired result.
One way of answering these questions is via the STAR approach - Situation, Task, Action and Result. It's a bit like a mini essay. The Situation and Task are usually combined and form the introduction, The Action you took, should form the main body of your answer, and the Result should be your conclusion - try here to be specific if you can: "We won the cup"; "Membership of the society increased by 40%"; "We raised £400 for charity". If you failed to achieve your objective say what you learned and what you would do differently next time.
Cover Letter
Dear Mr. Trimm:
I am writing to you in response to your advertisement for a Legal Assistant specializing in Port Regulatory Law, 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.
I especially would like to point out that I graduated Cum Laude from The University of Tacoma and was hired directly upon graduation due to my expertise in port authority regulations.
During the four years that I worked for Shoreman and Co., I further deepened my knowledge of the fast changing regulatory laws in our state. My employer also thought highly enough of my abilities to promote me to head legal researcher after my first year of employment.
I look forward to an opportunity to personally discuss the position with you. I will call you within the next five days to arrange an interview.
Sincerely,
Kenneth Beare
I am writing to you in response to your advertisement for a Legal Assistant specializing in Port Regulatory Law, 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.
I especially would like to point out that I graduated Cum Laude from The University of Tacoma and was hired directly upon graduation due to my expertise in port authority regulations.
During the four years that I worked for Shoreman and Co., I further deepened my knowledge of the fast changing regulatory laws in our state. My employer also thought highly enough of my abilities to promote me to head legal researcher after my first year of employment.
I look forward to an opportunity to personally discuss the position with you. I will call you within the next five days to arrange an interview.
Sincerely,
Kenneth Beare
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Multiple Choice
Tell us something about your ......... in the engineering industry?
(a) foreground
(b) background
(c) knowledge
(d) history
I see from your ......... form that you have had three different jobs in the last 5 years.
(a) apply
(b) applying
(c) applied
(d) application
What sort of ......... of time would you stay with us if we offered you the job?
(a) span
(b) duration
(c) period
(d) long
Describe how you would describe ......... in five years' time.
(a) you
(b) your
(c) yours
(d) yourself
Give us some idea of what you believe are your ......... and weaknesses.
(a) strength
(b) strengths
(c) force
(d) forces
As this is a managerial post, we must ask you how you deal with bad ......... keeping or unpunctuality in an employee.
(a) house
(b) space
(c) time
(d) record
Imagine one of your staff loses her temper and shouts at you in front of others, how would you ......... with this?
(a) take
(b) do
(c) handle
(d) deal
What would you say to a member of your staff who always ......... his work in late?
(a) delivered
(b) handed
(c) produced
(d) completed
I should explain that we would naturally ......... any previous holiday arrangements you have made.
(a) believe
(b) show
(c) decide
(d) honour
Finally now that we've asked you several questions, do you want to ......... any to us?
(a) place
(b) put
(c) offer
(d) consider
(a) foreground
(b) background
(c) knowledge
(d) history
I see from your ......... form that you have had three different jobs in the last 5 years.
(a) apply
(b) applying
(c) applied
(d) application
What sort of ......... of time would you stay with us if we offered you the job?
(a) span
(b) duration
(c) period
(d) long
Describe how you would describe ......... in five years' time.
(a) you
(b) your
(c) yours
(d) yourself
Give us some idea of what you believe are your ......... and weaknesses.
(a) strength
(b) strengths
(c) force
(d) forces
As this is a managerial post, we must ask you how you deal with bad ......... keeping or unpunctuality in an employee.
(a) house
(b) space
(c) time
(d) record
Imagine one of your staff loses her temper and shouts at you in front of others, how would you ......... with this?
(a) take
(b) do
(c) handle
(d) deal
What would you say to a member of your staff who always ......... his work in late?
(a) delivered
(b) handed
(c) produced
(d) completed
I should explain that we would naturally ......... any previous holiday arrangements you have made.
(a) believe
(b) show
(c) decide
(d) honour
Finally now that we've asked you several questions, do you want to ......... any to us?
(a) place
(b) put
(c) offer
(d) consider
Monday, March 29, 2010
Employment
Application
A form used to apply for a job
Have you answered all the questions on the application form?
Attitude
A feeling or opinion about something or someone; a mental position with regard to a state (a "negative" or "positive" attitude)
What is your attitude toward working in large groups? (feeling/opinion)
You are more likely to succeed if you have a positive attitude. (mental position)
Benefits
Things that employers may offer you in addition to your wages; for example, health insurance, annual or sick leave, holidays, paid vacation, parking space or monthly reimbursement for parking space area, mileage for travel, and tuition reimbursement
Although the salary was less than I wanted, I took the job because it had excellent benefits.
Career
A profession for which one trains; a job or series of job that you do during your working life He wants a career in social work.
Her career as a computer technician is very rewarding.
What are your career goals?
Classified Ads/Classified Section/Classifieds
Advertisements in a newspaper, magazine, or online, regarding job opportunities; the section of a newspaper, magazine or Web site devoted to advertisements about job opportunities
The job will be listed in this Sunday's Classified Section.
I saw your advertisement for an assistant in the classifieds.
Deductions
An amount of money taken from your paycheck every payday (usually for things such as federal and state income taxes, employment taxes, social security taxes, workers compensation coverage, and health insurance payments)
Her paycheck was $178 after deductions.
Experience
Knowledge or skill that one gets from doing, seeing or feeling something; the experience a person already has of working
Do you have any experience working in a restaurant or serving food?
I have experience working in an office, filing, typing, and answering phones.
Goal
Aim or purpose; the end toward which effort is directed
The department's goal is to provide better customer service.
My goal is to find a job where I can work with children.
Gross Wages
The total amount of your pay or wages before any deductions are taken out of your paycheck
Your gross wages are $200, but your net wages are $150.
Interest
The desire to learn about and/or be involved in a particular field or topic; activities that you enjoy doing or subjects that you like to learn about and spend time studying
She has always had an interest in healthcare.
His interests include politics, computers, and exercise.
Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
A department of the U.S. government that collects taxes
You must file your taxes with the IRS by April 15.
Job
Employment; the regular work a person does to earn money; a specific task or piece of work; a specific task or project that is one's responsibility
I am looking for a job as a teacher's aide. (employment)
We hope to have the job done by next week. (piece of work)
It will be your job to answer the phone and file papers. (responsibility)
Net Wages
The amount of pay or wages you take home after all your deductions are taken out of your paycheck
Your gross wages are $200, but your net wages are $150.
Network/Networking
Using friends, family, and people in organizations that you know to help you find a job
One of the most successful ways to find a job is through networking.
Occupation
A person's job
The application asks you to list your occupation.
He answered "teacher" when they asked his occupation.
Opportunity
The chance to do something you want to do, advance, or progress; the chance to get a job
I had the opportunity to learn computer skills at my last job. (chance)
Will there be the opportunity to advance in this job? (advance/progress)
There are many opportunities for people who have gone to technical school. (job)
Qualifications
An ability, characteristic or experience that makes you suitable for a particular job or activity
Nursing experience is a necessary qualification for this job.
Reference
A person who knows you and is willing to describe and usually praise you to support you when you are trying to get a job; a statement as to a person's character or ability
She used her computer teacher as a reference for the job.
Resume
A short written description of your education, qualifications, and previous employment, which you send to an employer when you are trying to get a job; also sometimes called a curriculum vitae or CV
People interested in applying for the job should send their resume by mail.
Skill
The ability to do an activity or job well, especially because you have practiced it
Helping raise my younger brothers gave me great skills with children.
I learned my office skills while volunteering in the school office.
What skills does the job require?
Tax/Taxes
An amount of money that is paid to the government, which is based on your income
Every person in the United States is required to pay state, federal, and social security tax.
Value
How important or useful something is; "value" can be used to describe something's basic worth (how important or useful people find it) or monetary worth (how much something costs)
The company places a lot of value on honesty. (basic worth)
What is the value of the prize? (monetary worth)
A form used to apply for a job
Have you answered all the questions on the application form?
Attitude
A feeling or opinion about something or someone; a mental position with regard to a state (a "negative" or "positive" attitude)
What is your attitude toward working in large groups? (feeling/opinion)
You are more likely to succeed if you have a positive attitude. (mental position)
Benefits
Things that employers may offer you in addition to your wages; for example, health insurance, annual or sick leave, holidays, paid vacation, parking space or monthly reimbursement for parking space area, mileage for travel, and tuition reimbursement
Although the salary was less than I wanted, I took the job because it had excellent benefits.
Career
A profession for which one trains; a job or series of job that you do during your working life He wants a career in social work.
Her career as a computer technician is very rewarding.
What are your career goals?
Classified Ads/Classified Section/Classifieds
Advertisements in a newspaper, magazine, or online, regarding job opportunities; the section of a newspaper, magazine or Web site devoted to advertisements about job opportunities
The job will be listed in this Sunday's Classified Section.
I saw your advertisement for an assistant in the classifieds.
Deductions
An amount of money taken from your paycheck every payday (usually for things such as federal and state income taxes, employment taxes, social security taxes, workers compensation coverage, and health insurance payments)
Her paycheck was $178 after deductions.
Experience
Knowledge or skill that one gets from doing, seeing or feeling something; the experience a person already has of working
Do you have any experience working in a restaurant or serving food?
I have experience working in an office, filing, typing, and answering phones.
Goal
Aim or purpose; the end toward which effort is directed
The department's goal is to provide better customer service.
My goal is to find a job where I can work with children.
Gross Wages
The total amount of your pay or wages before any deductions are taken out of your paycheck
Your gross wages are $200, but your net wages are $150.
Interest
The desire to learn about and/or be involved in a particular field or topic; activities that you enjoy doing or subjects that you like to learn about and spend time studying
She has always had an interest in healthcare.
His interests include politics, computers, and exercise.
Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
A department of the U.S. government that collects taxes
You must file your taxes with the IRS by April 15.
Job
Employment; the regular work a person does to earn money; a specific task or piece of work; a specific task or project that is one's responsibility
I am looking for a job as a teacher's aide. (employment)
We hope to have the job done by next week. (piece of work)
It will be your job to answer the phone and file papers. (responsibility)
Net Wages
The amount of pay or wages you take home after all your deductions are taken out of your paycheck
Your gross wages are $200, but your net wages are $150.
Network/Networking
Using friends, family, and people in organizations that you know to help you find a job
One of the most successful ways to find a job is through networking.
Occupation
A person's job
The application asks you to list your occupation.
He answered "teacher" when they asked his occupation.
Opportunity
The chance to do something you want to do, advance, or progress; the chance to get a job
I had the opportunity to learn computer skills at my last job. (chance)
Will there be the opportunity to advance in this job? (advance/progress)
There are many opportunities for people who have gone to technical school. (job)
Qualifications
An ability, characteristic or experience that makes you suitable for a particular job or activity
Nursing experience is a necessary qualification for this job.
Reference
A person who knows you and is willing to describe and usually praise you to support you when you are trying to get a job; a statement as to a person's character or ability
She used her computer teacher as a reference for the job.
Resume
A short written description of your education, qualifications, and previous employment, which you send to an employer when you are trying to get a job; also sometimes called a curriculum vitae or CV
People interested in applying for the job should send their resume by mail.
Skill
The ability to do an activity or job well, especially because you have practiced it
Helping raise my younger brothers gave me great skills with children.
I learned my office skills while volunteering in the school office.
What skills does the job require?
Tax/Taxes
An amount of money that is paid to the government, which is based on your income
Every person in the United States is required to pay state, federal, and social security tax.
Value
How important or useful something is; "value" can be used to describe something's basic worth (how important or useful people find it) or monetary worth (how much something costs)
The company places a lot of value on honesty. (basic worth)
What is the value of the prize? (monetary worth)
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