All posts by weblio PH

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…

Business (Upper Intermediate)|ビジネス会話(中上級)
Business Communication 3: 職場での交流 3

PART A_1

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

1. When explaining rules and regulations, use “We have to…” instead of “You have to…”
2. Don’t use “must” when explaing rules; instead use “need to” or “have to.”
2. Try to be polite and respectful when explaining rules to colleagues.
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: Hi, Bob. Oh, do you realize there’s no smoking in the building?
B: No, I didn’t. I’m on a short break and felt like smoking.
A: I see. Well, we have to smoke outside in the designated smoking area when we want to smoke.
B: I’m sorry. I didn’t see any ‘no smoking’ signs so I assumed it would be okay.
A: That’s right. We don’t have any signs posted, but you can read about this rule in the employee handbook.
B: I got it. Again, sorry. I’ll be sure to read the employee handbook later today.
A: Okay. And yes, please smoke outside in the smoking area. It’s quite a pretty little spot!
B: Definitely. Thanks for telling me.
A: No problem!
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 inform a colleague about a company rule?
Answer:
2. If so, were you uncomfortable being in this position?
Answer:
3. Have you ever broken any company rules?
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: Your colleague broke a rule. You need to correct him/her politely.

(Your tutor will pretend to be your colleague.)
Expressions: – We have to…
– We need to…

Business (Upper Intermediate)|ビジネス会話(中上級)
Business Communication 2: 職場での交流 2

PART A_1

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

1. When asking a colleague to help with your work, instead of using “Can you…?”, use “Would you…?”
2. It is more polite to say “I’d really appreciate it if…”
3. Remember that helping other staff with their tasks will be appreciated. It’s important to be a team player.
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: Hi, Bob. Do you have a minute?
B: Sure.
A: I’ve been working hard on this report, and I’d really appreciate it if you could help with it.
B: Well, I probably can’t do it just yet, but I’d be glad to work on it later.
A: Oh, that would be great. Do you think you can finish it by today?
B: Yes, not a problem.
A: Great. I will be stepping out later, so would you mind sending me an email when you’ve finished?
A: Yes, I’ll do that.
A: Thanks so much.
A: Glad to help.
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 asked a colleague to help with a work task?
Answer:
2. Have you ever been asked by a colleague to help with something?
Answer:
3. How do you show your appreciation to a colleague who has helped you?
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: Ask your colleague for help with your presentation.

(Your tutor will pretend to be your colleague.)
Expressions: – I’d really appreciate it if…
– Would you mind…

Business (Upper Intermediate)|ビジネス会話(中上級)
Business Communication 1: 職場での交流 1

PART A_1

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

1. It’s important to learn how to greet and talk to your colleagues at the beginning of the day, or during break times. This helps the staff feel like a cohesive unit and friendly towards one another.
2. When trying to start conversations naturally, use “~, isn’t it?” and “looks like~.”
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: Hi, Bob!
B: Hello, Kei. It sure is cold out today, isn’t it?
A: Yes, very cold. It looks like it might snow.
B: It could very well snow, just in time for Christmas, too!
A: So did you see the news about the big accident at the factory this morning?
B: Yes, I caught some of that news story. What happened exactly?
A: I’m not sure, but I hope everyone will be okay.
A: Yeah, me too.
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 like engaging in small talk? Why or why not?
Answer:
2. When not talking about work-related topics with your colleagues, what other topics do you like to discuss?
Answer:
3. Do you consider yourself shy or outgoing?
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 talking about the weather with your co-worker. He/she will then ask you about a current event.

(Your tutor will pretend to be your co-worker.)
Expressions: – … isn’t it?
– looks like …