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Business (Upper Intermediate)|ビジネス会話(中上級)
Business Interview 7: 面接 7

PART A_1

First, we will check the points in this lesson. Please repeat after me.
PART A_2

1. If you are asked to explain what you know about the company, you should only talk about the positive aspects, such as its growth in the market share, its innovativeness, and its cutting-edge technology.
2. When comparing the company with its competitors, you should be prepared to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the company.
3. If you are asked to share something negative you have heard about the company, a safe answer would be to mention how hard it is to get a job at the firm.
PART B_1

We will read aloud the dialogue below. Once we are done, we will switch roles and read aloud the dialogue again. I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
(Please send the mispronounced words and expressions to your student.)
PART B_2

A: Okay Keiko, you’ve certainly proven you understand this position quite well. Now can you tell me what you know about us and our industry, and how you see your role in all of this?
B: I’d be glad to. There are numerous unexplored markets, and I know you are trying to make inroads into these markets. I would be an enthusiastic pioneer for the company, excited to be a member of your team, helping to develop the new markets by utilizing my skills.
A: So you seem to have a solid understanding of the market. But what do you know about our competitors?
B: The major competitors are AtTech, GreenBelt, and The Shield Corporation. While these are established companies with a longer operating history–and they also enjoy greater name recognition–your company is currently experiencing tremendous growth. I’d love to be a part of that.
A: I’m glad to hear that. You seem to have a lot of good things to say about us. Have you heard anything negative about our firm in the press?
B: Yes. To be honest, I heard your company has a reputation for being very hard to get into, but that just means you have high standards.

PART B_3

Now, let’s review some words and expressions from part B_2.
(Please review the mispronounced words and expressions from part B_2.)

PART B_4

PART C_1

Now, please answer the following questions. I will check if your sentences are complete and if the grammar is correct.

PART C_2

1. Most professionals know what questions to expect at job interviews, so how do you prepare to give yourself an advantage over other job candidates?
Answer:
2. Why do you think it is important to talk about your knowledge of the company’s competitors?
Answer:
3. Have ever you researched the industry and market before the interview?
Answer:
PART C_3

Now, let’s review your answers.
(Please review your student’s answers by sending the correct answers in complete sentences. After that, ask your student to read aloud his or her corrected answers.)

PART C_4

PART D_1

Let’s do a role play with the given situations.

PART D_2

Situation: You are in a job interview. You will act out an interview scene where you are the job seeker and you must say something negative about the company that you are applying for.

(Your tutor will pretend to be the interviewer.)
Expressions: – To be honest, I heard…
– but that just means…

Business (Upper Intermediate)|ビジネス会話(中上級)
Business Interview 6: 面接 6

PART A_1

First, we will check the points in this lesson. Please repeat after me.
PART A_2

1. When explaining why you are applying for a certain job, stay focused on the positive aspects and avoid criticizing your former employers. Also, do not discuss salary or vacation; save those topics for the second round of interviews.
2. When discussing what you can offer the company, provide concrete examples of positive contributions you made at your current job.
3. When describing your understanding of the position for which you are applying, confidently explain that you possess the skills and qualifications to do the job well.

PART B_1

We will read aloud the dialogue below. Once we are done, we will switch roles and read aloud the dialogue again. I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
(Please send the mispronounced words and expressions to your student.)
PART B_2

A: Keiko, can you tell me why you applied for this position?
B: Yes. Firstly, I feel this job matches my skill set perfectly. Not only would I offer your company a fresh outlook, but working here would allow me to reach my full potential as a professional. Secondly, I would prove myself as a committed company employee.

A: Okay. And how do you think your experience at your current job helped prepare you for the work you’d be doing here?
B: In my current position, I had a lot of opportunity to grow, and I mastered the art of working harmoniously with others. I learned how to cultivate strong inter-personal relationships. I am confident that I can offer what you are looking for.
A: Great. Now I’d like to ask you about how you see this role, this sales position. We have many sales associates, so how would you stand out from the others?
B: Well, in addition to working well with the team, I believe it is important for the sales associate to continually and proactively seek out new leads, bring in fresh ideas, and follow through on these ideas. You can’t just sit around waiting for things to happen; you create your own opportunities. So basically, I see this as a key liaison role: I will be connecting the company with future clients, thereby increasing sales.
PART B_3

Now, let’s review some words and expressions from part B_2.
(Please review the mispronounced words and expressions from part B_2.)

PART B_4

PART C_1

Now, please answer the following questions. I will check if your sentences are complete and if the grammar is correct.

PART C_2

1. How do you convince a potential employer that you are the right person for the job?
Answer:
2. To convince an interviewer, how do you prepare for moments when you must speak with confidence?

Answer:
PART C_3

Now, let’s review your answers.
(Please review your student’s answers by sending the correct answers in complete sentences. After that, ask your student to read aloud his or her corrected answers.)

PART C_4

PART D_1

Let’s do a role play with the given situations.

PART D_2

Situation: You are in an interview for a new job position. Elaborate on you are the right person for the job.

(Your tutor will pretend to be interviewer.)
Expressions: – Well, in addition to…
– I am confident that…

Business (Upper Intermediate)|ビジネス会話(中上級)
Business Trip 1: 出張 1

PART A_1

First, we will check the points in this lesson. Please repeat after me.
PART A_2

1. When you reserve a room via a travel agent, make sure that you are dealing with a reliable one.
2. Some agents fail to reserve the room even after you have paid for the room.
3. If you are not happy with the quoted price, you may ask, “Are there any less expensive rooms available?”
PART B_1

We will read aloud the dialogue below. Once we are done, we will switch roles and read aloud the dialogue again. I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
(Please send the mispronounced words and expressions to your student.)
PART B_2

A: I’d like to make a reservation for a twin room at the Seaview Plaza Hotel for four nights.
B: Okay. Can you give me the dates you are interested in?
A: Yes. March 18th-21st
B: It looks like we have several rooms available.
A: Great. How much is the room?
B: A twin during the week of March 18th-21st will be $250 a night.
A: Are there any less expensive rooms available?
A: Yes, but it’s a single. Would you like to book it?
A: Yes, please. Thank you.
PART B_3

Now, let’s review some words and expressions from part B_2.
(Please review the mispronounced words and expressions from part B_2.)

PART B_4

PART C_1

Now, please answer the following questions. I will check if your sentences are complete and if the grammar is correct.

PART C_2

1. Have you ever had to book a hotel room through a travel agent?
Answer:
2. If so, did you have a positive experience?
Answer:
3. What are the advantages of going through a travel agent?
Answer:
PART C_3

Now, let’s review your answers.
(Please review your student’s answers by sending the correct answers in complete sentences. After that, ask your student to read aloud his or her corrected answers.)

PART C_4

PART D_1

Let’s do a role play with the given situations.

PART D_2

Situation: You need to book a hotel through a travel agent. You will ask if there are any less expensive rooms available.

(Your tutor will pretend to be the agent.)
Expressions: – I’d like to make a reservation ~
– Are there any less expensive rooms available?

Business (Upper Intermediate)|ビジネス会話(中上級)
Business Interview 4: 面接 4

PART A_1

First, we will check the points in this lesson. Please repeat after me.
PART A_2

1. In order to sound more persuasive, you should not only describe your skills and expertise, but show your accomplishments and how you went about achieving those accomplishments.
2. When discussing your skills or accomplishments, you should give concrete examples to make your story more convincing.

3. When asked about the challenges you faced at a previous job, avoid talking about problems you had with other employees, or personality clashes.
PART B_1

We will read aloud the dialogue below. Once we are done, we will switch roles and read aloud the dialogue again. I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
(Please send the mispronounced words and expressions to your student.)
PART B_2

A: Sounds great. You’ve shed more light on your skill set. Do you mind switching gears for a moment and discussing actual achievements? Give me one or two examples if possible.
B: For starters, I am very proud of the fact that I helped increase sales of a product we rolled out last year, a smartphone accessory. My tenacity certainly played a role in that project.
A: I see. And how exactly did you help increase sales?
B: Since I’m good at analytical work, I was able to read and process reports, produce financial forecasts, and try to stay informed. In this way, I kept my team informed, and we knew what we had to do to stay ahead of the competitors.
A: Okay, thank you for that. Now I would like to explore difficulties you experienced in the workplace.
B: Yes, well, most of the problems I encountered at work were technical related. Luckily, we have a strong tech support team so these problems didn’t remain long.
A: Okay, thank you.
PART B_3

Now, let’s review some words and expressions from part B_2.
(Please review the mispronounced words and expressions from part B_2.)

PART B_4

PART C_1

Now, please answer the following questions. I will check if your sentences are complete and if the grammar is correct.

PART C_2

1. Think about your current job. What are some problems you have encountered recently?
Answer:
2. How would you describe those difficulties in a job interview?
Answer:
3. Do you have concrete examples to show of your professional accomplishments?
Answer:
PART C_3

Now, let’s review your answers.
(Please review your student’s answers by sending the correct answers in complete sentences. After that, ask your student to read aloud his or her corrected answers.)

PART C_4

PART D_1

Let’s do a role play with the given situations.

PART D_2

Situation: You are in an interview for a new job position. You will answer questions about your past achievements.

(Your tutor will pretend to be the interviewer.)
Expressions: – I am very proud of the fact that I…
– Since I’m good at…, I was able to…

Business (Upper Intermediate)|ビジネス会話(中上級)
Business Interview 3: 面接 3

PART A_1

First, we will check the points in this lesson. Please repeat after me.
PART A_2

1. Think carefully about traits suitable for the position you are applying to. For example, if you want to be in sales, you should be assertive and have a competitive nature. In addition to that, it is better to show some key skills bussiness people should have, such as creativity, innovation, and a willingness to take initiative.
2. When asked to discuss motivation for the job, avoid talking about things like salary and benefits; instead you can mention your intention to expand your career and the importance of career growth.
3. If you have the opportunity, emphasize your commitment to being an active team player. Business people, and companies in general, see this as being important to the success of their business.
PART B_1

We will read aloud the dialogue below. Once we are done, we will switch roles and read aloud the dialogue again. I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
(Please send the mispronounced words and expressions to your student.)
PART B_2

A: I’m glad to hear you’re a team player. What other traits do you think sales people should have?
B: I believe competitiveness is a requirement for succeeding in sales. You have to be prepared to be compared to your competitors as well as your own colleagues.
A: Yes, certainly. Good point. And what other skills are important to this job?
B: I believe creativity plays a huge role in this field. I am very creative when it comes to problem solving.
A: I see. So what keeps you motivated? How do you stay motivated to excel?
B: I feel strongly that what keeps me motivated is when I am presented with an opportunity to learn new skills. Or when I am faced with a new challenge.
A: Okay. Thank you. Well, we certainly have lots of challenges here!
PART B_3

Now, let’s review some words and expressions from part B_2.
(Please review the mispronounced words and expressions from part B_2.)

PART B_4

PART C_1

Now, please answer the following questions. I will check if your sentences are complete and if the grammar is correct.

PART C_2

1. Do you consider yourself a creative problem solver?
Answer:
2. Are you assertive and confident? Explain why or why not.
Answer:
3. What keeps you motivated at work?
Answer:
4. Are you a team player, or do you prefer solitary assignments?
Answer:
PART C_3

Now, let’s review your answers.
(Please review your student’s answers by sending the correct answers in complete sentences. After that, ask your student to read aloud his or her corrected answers.)

PART C_4

PART D_1

Let’s do a role play with the given situations.

PART D_2

Situation: You are in an interview for a new job position. You will answer questions about your job motivation.

(Your tutor will pretend to be the interviewer.)
Expressions: – I believe…
– I feel strongly that what keeps me motivated is…

Business (Upper Intermediate)|ビジネス会話(中上級)
Business Interview 5: 面接 5

PART A_1

First, we will check the points in this lesson. Please repeat after me.
PART A_2

1. When asked the reason for leaving your current job, never criticize your present firm, boss, or coworkers. Instead, you can always emphasize your motivation for future career growth.
2. When discussing skills learned at a previous job, try to connect those skills in some way to the job to which you are currently applying.
3. In case you are asked to give your opinion about your current boss/job/company, it is a good idea to be prepared to discuss what your current employer or boss think of you, as well as what you think of them.
PART B_1

We will read aloud the dialogue below. Once we are done, we will switch roles and read aloud the dialogue again. I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
(Please send the mispronounced words and expressions to your student.)
PART B_2

A: So, I’m interested in hearing more details of your current job. Do you enjoy working there, and if so, why change to a different company?
B: I very much enjoy working at my current job. I have a lot of respect for my boss and my coworkers and, to my great joy, they also respect me. However, I feel I’ve learned as much as I possibly can. And I’ve contributed a lot to my department.
A: So what do you hope to gain by leaving?
B: I intend to utilize the skills I learned there, and apply them in my new position. I’m very eager to try out my problem solving skills in a new environment.

A: Anything else you care to add?
B: I’d like to grow, and I need new challenges. I cannot continue to grow unless I make myself available and create new opportunities for myself. I am also interested in future career growth. I see myself in a managerial position in the future.
PART B_3

Now, let’s review some words and expressions from part B_2.
(Please review the mispronounced words and expressions from part B_2.)

PART B_4

PART C_1

Now, please answer the following questions. I will check if your sentences are complete and if the grammar is correct.

PART C_2

1. Do you find it difficult to discuss your current or previous job during a job interview?
Answer:
2. Have you ever accidentally criticized a former boss, company, or coworker during a job interview?
Answer:
PART C_3

Now, let’s review your answers.
(Please review your student’s answers by sending the correct answers in complete sentences. After that, ask your student to read aloud his or her corrected answers.)

PART C_4

PART D_1

Let’s do a role play with the given situations.

PART D_2

Situation: You are in an interview for a new job position. You must must talk about your experience at a former company.

(Your tutor will pretend to be the interviewer.)
Expressions: – I very much enjoy working at
– I intend to utilize

Business (Upper Intermediate)|ビジネス会話(中上級)
Business Interview 2: 面接 2

PART A_1

First, we will check the points in this lesson. Please repeat after me.
PART A_2

1. When asked to describe your greatest weakness, it is not necessary to disclose your real weakness. Instead, a standard job interview tactic is to describe something as a weakness, which can be interpreted as a strength.
2. If you are a recent graduate, you can use your limited work experience as your greatest weakness.
3. Be sure to back up your statements with concrete reasons and/or examples.
PART B_1

We will read aloud the dialogue below. Once we are done, we will switch roles and read aloud the dialogue again. I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
(Please send the mispronounced words and expressions to your student.)
PART B_2

A: Great. Now, would you mind describing one of your greatest strengths?
B: Of course. I would say my greatest strength is my tenacity. Once I am given a task, I remain committed to it until it is completed. In that sense, I am very tenacious. I take ownership of my tasks and responsibilities.
A: Excellent. Now please share with me your greatest weakness.
B: Well, I tend to be a bit of a perfectionist. I am very good at adhering to rules, regulations, deadlines, that sort of thing. So when something happens, let’s say a tight deadline cannot be met, I tend to be very hard on myself.
A: I see. And what would your friends have to say about you?
B: My friends would say that I am extremely helpful and dependable. If someone needs assistance, I always volunteer to help. In other words, I work harmoniously with others, and I’m a team player.
PART B_3

Now, let’s review some words and expressions from part B_2.
(Please review the mispronounced words and expressions from part B_2.)

PART B_4

PART C_1

Now, please answer the following questions. I will check if your sentences are complete and if the grammar is correct.

PART C_2

1. How would your friends describe you?
Answer:
2. What is your greatest strength?
Answer:
3. What is your greatest weakness?
Answer:
PART C_3

Now, let’s review your answers.
(Please review your student’s answers by sending the correct answers in complete sentences. After that, ask your student to read aloud his or her corrected answers.)

PART C_4

PART D_1

Let’s do a role play with the given situations.

PART D_2

Situation: You are applying for a job. You will answer questions about your strengths and weaknesses.

(Your tutor will pretend to be the interviewer.)
Expressions: – I would say my greatest strength is…
– I tend to be…

Business (Upper Intermediate)|ビジネス会話(中上級)
Business Interview 10: 面接 10

PART A_1

First, we will check the points in this lesson. Please repeat after me.
PART A_2

1. At the end of the interview, you may have an opportunity to ask a few questions, so be prepared for that.
2. It is a good idea to express your eagerness to work for the company again. And do not forget to show your appreciation to the interviewer for sharing his/her time.
3. It is considered polite to send a thank you letter to the person who interviewed you within a day of the interview.
PART B_1

We will read aloud the dialogue below. Once we are done, we will switch roles and read aloud the dialogue again. I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
(Please send the mispronounced words and expressions to your student.)
PART B_2

A: Well, that just about wraps it up. Do you have any questions for me?
B: Yes, actually. Roughly, how many people are currently working in the sales department?
A: We have about 25 sales associates at this branch.
B: And who would I be reporting to?
A: I’m one of two direct supervisors, so you’d be reporting to me and the other sales manager.
B: Okay, thank you. I don’t think I have any other questions.
A: I’ve enjoyed meeting you. Thank you for coming in today. We hope to contact you by next week at the latest.
B: Thank you very much for your time; it was a pleasure meeting with you.
A: Likewise.
B: I look forward to hearing from you ―and hopefully joining your company―soon. Thank you.
PART B_3

Now, let’s review some words and expressions from part B_2.
(Please review the mispronounced words and expressions from part B_2.)

PART B_4

PART C_1

Now, please answer the following questions. I will check if your sentences are complete and if the grammar is correct.

PART C_2

1. Have you ever prepared a list of questions to ask the interviewer at the end of the interview?
Answer:
2. Have you ever sent a thank you letter after an interview?
Answer:
3. Do you think a thank you letter is necessary? Why or why not?
Answer:
PART C_3

Now, let’s review your answers.
(Please review your student’s answers by sending the correct answers in complete sentences. After that, ask your student to read aloud his or her corrected answers.)

PART C_4

PART D_1

Let’s do a role play with the given situations.

PART D_2

Situation: You are in in the final stage of an interview. Ask some questions to the interviewer and wrap-up the interview with him/her.

(Your tutor will pretend to be the interviewer.)
Expressions: – Yes, actually, I have a question…
– I look forward to…

Business (Upper Intermediate)|ビジネス会話(中上級)
Business Interview 9: 面接 9

PART A_1

First, we will check the points in this lesson. Please repeat after me.
PART A_2

1. When discussing hobbies during a job interview, it is effective to show that your hobby somehow relates to your job. For example, if your job requires a lot of energy, you can emphasize your stamina by describing your love of active sports.
2. If you list reading as a hobby, be prepared to discuss some light reading material you have read recently. Try to avoid books or topics that could be construed as controversial. It is not appropriate to discuss things like politics or religion during job interviews.
PART B_1

We will read aloud the dialogue below. Once we are done, we will switch roles and read aloud the dialogue again. I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
(Please send the mispronounced words and expressions to your student.)
PART B_2

A: So Keiko, what do you like to do in your free time?
B: I like to work out in my free time; it keeps me healthy and helps me burn off all of my energy.
A: How often do you work out?
B: I try and work out about three times a week.
A: What else do you like to do in your free time?
B: I listen to music, read, and volunteer at a local animal shelter.
A: I am an avid reader myself. What have you been reading recently?
B: Lately, I’m into non-fiction travel books. I’m fascinated by tales of travelers who place themselves in vulnerable positions in foreign lands.
A: Your work at the animal shelter sounds interesting. How did you get involved in that?
B: I became a volunteer about two years ago. The pets need care and good homes. It shows that much can be accomplished if people put their minds and hearts into something worthwhile.
PART B_3

Now, let’s review some words and expressions from part B_2.
(Please review the mispronounced words and expressions from part B_2.)

PART B_4

PART C_1

Now, please answer the following questions. I will check if your sentences are complete and if the grammar is correct.

PART C_2

1. What are your hobbies?
Answer:
2. Why do you think companies are interested in knowing how you spend your free time?
Answer:
3. Do you do any volunteer work?
Answer:
PART C_3

Now, let’s review your answers.
(Please review your student’s answers by sending the correct answers in complete sentences. After that, ask your student to read aloud his or her corrected answers.)

PART C_4

PART D_1

Let’s do a role play with the given situations.

PART D_2

Situation: You are in an interview. You will tell the interviewer your hobbies and connect them to your job.

(Your tutor will pretend to be the interviewer.)
Expressions: – I enjoy…
– With these hobbies, I can…

Business (Upper Intermediate)|ビジネス会話(中上級)
Business Interview 8: 面接 8

PART A_1

First, we will check the points in this lesson. Please repeat after me.
PART A_2

1. When talking about your long-term objectives, you should indicate that the job you applied for would be an important step for your goal.
2. When talking about your short-term goals, provide some concrete ideas about how you plan to achieve them. Everyone has goals, but not everyone can articulate how they will be achieved.
3. It is appropriate at this stage of the interview to mention some small aspect of your personal life, but be sure to speak in a broader sense and don’t forget to connect it to your career goals.
PART B_1

We will read aloud the dialogue below. Once we are done, we will switch roles and read aloud the dialogue again. I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
(Please send the mispronounced words and expressions to your student.)
PART B_2

A: Well, we’ve certainly talked at length about the industry. I’d like to switch gears for a moment and focus on you. What are your short-term goals?
B: My short-term goal is to secure a challenging position in sales, where my skill set will be fully utilized and where I can feel like I’m making important contributions to our healthy economy every day. This in turn will help me achieve my long-term goal.
A: And your long-term goal is? Also, do you think you are taking the right steps to accomplish your short-term goal?
B: My ultimate goal is to become an M&A specialist. Working in a company such as yours would be a crucial step in that long-term plan.
A: Fine. And now for my favorite interview question: Where do you see yourself in ten years?
B: Ten years from now, I see myself working in a managerial position, with expertise in sales, M&A, and so forth, and being a good resource person for less experienced sales associates.
A: Do you feel that you are on the right path towards achieving these goals?
B: Absolutely. I never want to feel like I have given less than my best. I want to continually strive to reach my goals.
PART B_3

Now, let’s review some words and expressions from part B_2.
(Please review the mispronounced words and expressions from part B_2.)

PART B_4

PART C_1

Now, please answer the following questions. I will check if your sentences are complete and if the grammar is correct.

PART C_2

1. What are your short-term goals?
Answer:
2. What are your long-term goals?
Answer:
3. Do you feel you are taking the right steps in your life to achieve these goals?
Answer:
PART C_3

Now, let’s review your answers.
(Please review your student’s answers by sending the correct answers in complete sentences. After that, ask your student to read aloud his or her corrected answers.)

PART C_4

PART D_1

Let’s do a role play with the given situations.

PART D_2

Situation: You are in an interview. You will tell the interviewer your short and long-term goals, and your steps for achieving these goals.

(Your tutor will pretend to be the interviewer.)
Expressions: – My short/long-term goal is…
– Ten years from now, I see myself…