Business English Executive Coaching
Business English for executives that need to learn more to earn more. Presentation perfection, successful small talk skills, crucial career planning and American accent training for business people who need professional English to reach their career goals.
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Episodes
Monday Feb 24, 2025
Monday Feb 24, 2025
Business English phrases that combine the request word "would" and the use of "please" are some of the best polite phrases you must learn. The combination of "would" and "please" signal your English is polite, pleasant and correct in business meetings, presentations and small talk with clients and colleagues. English has almost 500,000 words and phrases, but polite Business English uses a subset of 20,000 words and phrases that you should know and use so native English speakers admire and respond to how you speak and write. The episode summary is below.
Episode Summary:
Sometimes you may need to ask for repetition or clarification of something another person has said.
Some of the situations where this might happen include:
Someone is talking to you but you can’t understand.
You might be a in noisy place and can’t hear the person.
You might not understand a piece of slang the other person used.
You might not understand the way the other person speaks English.
They might have a heavy accent or be speaking in a dialect you don’t understand. There are so many different ways English is spoken, depending on the country the person is from and what part of their country they are from. Sometimes the speaker might be a non-native English speaker and they have an accent.
The key idea is to use one of these phrases and for the most polite English, use “would” instead of “could”.
Would is more polite, more formal and more classy when making a request.
Here are some examples of how would can be used. Next we will use these in polite requests.
Would is used in three ways.
1. Would you like = Would you like to sit down? (This is a polite invitation or offer).
2. Would you mind = Would you mind moving down one seat? (tentative request with some worry that it will cause inconvenience or offense).
3. Would it be possible = Would it be possible for you to pick me up on your way to work? (similar to would you mind, used to make an inquiry about a desired action or request for a favor).
Here are eight key polite phrases you can use to ask for clarification when you don’t understand something.
For the first two examples, we use the word “catch”.
Usually, catch is used with a ball like to catch a ball in baseball or American football where the ball lands in your hand.
Here, imagine you are trying to catch their words.
1. I’m sorry, I didn’t catch that. Would you say it again, please?
2. I’m sorry, I didn’t catch that. Would you repeat that, please?
3. Would you say that again, please? I want to make sure I understood you.
4. I’m sorry, I’m not following you. Would you repeat it, please?
5. I don’t think I understood what you said. Would you explain it again, please?
6. I don’t think I understood you clearly. Would you explain it again, please?
7. I missed that. Would you explain it again, please?
8. I missed that. Would you repeat it, please?
250225 A0045 EPISODE 4
Monday Feb 24, 2025
Monday Feb 24, 2025
Episode Summary
The word "hand" is used in many common Business English phrases. These English phrases are part of the building blocks of English vocabulary building you need to participate in meetings, presentations and small talk. English has almost 500,000 words, but only 20,000 words and phrases are commonly used. See the episode phrases and examples below.
Just for fun, this episode has a silly country & western style songs I wrote and sang using hand phrases.
Episode Contents
Here is a list of the phrases using "hand" with sample sentences to help you understand the phrase.
1. Living hand to mouth
Definition: To survive with very little money, spending everything as soon as it is earned.
Examples:
After losing his job, he was living hand to mouth for months.
Many families in the countryside live hand to mouth, relying on small incomes from farming.
She’s been living hand to mouth, barely able to pay the rent each month.
2. Hand it off to someone
Definition: To pass a responsibility or task to another person.
Examples:
After completing the first part of the project, I handed it off to John to finish the report.
The quarterback handed it off to the running back during the final play.
You can hand it off to Sarah if you’re too busy to finish it.
3. Give you the hand off
Definition: To quickly pass on a task or responsibility, often without much explanation.
Examples:
Don’t give me the hand off without proper instructions.
He gave her the hand off for the client presentation just minutes before the meeting.
I don’t want a quick hand off; I need more guidance.
4. I’ve got to hand it to you
Definition: To acknowledge someone's accomplishment or success.
Examples:
I’ve got to hand it to you, your presentation was amazing!
I’ve got to hand it to him; he managed to finish the project on time despite all the setbacks.
Well done on the new proposal – I’ve got to hand it to you, that’s impressive work!
5. Come in handy
Definition: To be useful in a particular situation.
Examples:
This pocketknife will come in handy when we go camping.
The extra money I saved came in handy when my car broke down.
That flashlight came in handy during the power outage last night.
6. Hand over the presentation
Definition: To pass control of or responsibility for a presentation to another person.
Examples:
After introducing the topic, I’ll hand over the presentation to Michael.
Once the statistics are covered, I’ll hand over the presentation to the finance team.
She handed over the presentation with confidence to her colleague.
7. Hand over the meeting to
Definition: To transfer the leadership or control of a meeting to someone else.
Examples:
After I finish the introduction, I’ll hand over the meeting to you.
Can you hand over the meeting to me when you’re done with your section?
She handed over the meeting to her manager after presenting the latest data.
8. To have the upper hand
Definition: To have control or an advantage over someone.
Examples:
He had the upper hand in negotiations because he had more information.
The team that wins the first round will have the upper hand in the competition.
She always seems to have the upper hand in every argument.
9. Give him a hand
Definition: To help or assist someone.
Examples:
Could you give him a hand with carrying those boxes?
We all gave her a hand when she was struggling with the project.
He gave me a hand in setting up the equipment for the event.
10. Give me a hand
Definition: To ask for assistance or help with something.
Examples:
Can you give me a hand moving this furniture?
I need someone to give me a hand with these reports before the deadline.
Could you give me a hand fixing this issue?
11. Hand it over
Definition: To give something to someone, often reluctantly or when asked.
Examples:
The thief was caught and forced to hand over the stolen goods.
Can you hand it over to me once you’re finished with it?
After a long negotiation, he finally handed over the keys to the car.
12. Hat in hand
Definition: To ask for something humbly, often with embarrassment.
Examples:
He went to his boss hat in hand, asking for a raise.
After the mistake, she had to go to the client hat in hand to apologize.
He approached his parents hat in hand, asking for financial help.
13. Stick out your hand
Definition: To extend your hand to greet someone or offer something.
Examples:
When I arrived at the meeting, I stuck out my hand to introduce myself.
He stuck out his hand to congratulate her on the promotion.
After the argument, she stuck out her hand to make peace.
14. Shake hands and make up
Definition: To reconcile and stop a quarrel.
Examples:
After a long disagreement, they finally shook hands and made up.
Let’s just shake hands and make up; this fight isn’t worth it.
They had a heated argument, but in the end, they shook hands and made up.
15. Will handle the handover
Definition: To manage the transfer of duties or responsibilities from one person to another.
Examples:
Our new manager will handle the handover next week.
I’m confident she’ll handle the handover smoothly once she takes over the role.
He will handle the handover of all the documents after his resignation.
16. Hand off the ball (to someone)
Definition: In sports, to give the ball to another player, usually by passing or handing it.
Examples:
The quarterback handed off the ball to the running back.
During the final play, he handed off the ball to his teammate.
She quickly handed off the ball, and they scored a goal.
A0021 250225 EPISODE 3
Monday Feb 24, 2025
Monday Feb 24, 2025
EPISODE SUMMARY
Business English. That’s the English they didn’t teach you in school, but you need to advance in your career. The podcast has tips on using the word "plan". It uses the example of my father planning to start his dream business - making furniture.
EXAMPLE CONTENT
Example 1: “Plan the work and then work the plan..” This means understanding the business plan, outlining all the steps of the plan and then talking steps to make the plan work.
FREE PDF OF THE LESSON WITH BONUS CONTENT
You can download the PDF of notes for the episode. The PDF's include detailed notes on the subject, a quiz and lyrics to the songs (I write songs using words and phrases from the podcast for some of the topics).
Want more Business English tips? Join the Business English Executive Coaching Club. Learn the English you need for business (but you didn’t learn in school). What you get as a free member:
> Access to the podcast topic with detailed notes on the subject, a quiz and lyrics to the songs (I write songs using words and phrases from the podcast for some of the topics)
> Career planning tips
> Bonus resources on professional English
> First to know about new lessons
> Special discounts and offers
BUSINESS ENGLISH PODCAST TIPS
HOW CAN YOU IMPROVE YOUR BUSINESS ENGLISH?
Employers want their staff to have higher "soft skills" in making presentations plus small talk for success with colleagues and clients.
What is your plan for 2025 and how I can help you make a career plan?
Say hello on LinkedIn: Business English Success Coaching
Get your free Presentations Skills course and Small Talk, Big Results business conversation course by sending an email to me at william@williampittsbusinessenglish.com.
PODCAST PURPOSE
Business English. That’s the English they didn’t teach you in school, but you need to advance in your career.
If you want to learn more to earn more, you must increase your ability to give powerful presentations, engage in small talk in a skillful way and plan out your career.
I call this the “Learn More To Earn More” podcast because it helps you understand and know and use the correct Business English you are required to use to advance your career.
I offer you my background having worked for two Fortune 500 companies, a United States Senator and I also got my MBA from Columbia Business School.
For you this means a senior coach and counselor that will help you get to the next step.
I am your coach every step of the way to help you get the career you deserve.
In my research of many companies and in research done by universities and governments, there is a high need for personal “soft skills”.
Every boss wants their employees to know more, but there is a large gap between what the senior executives need for the company to be successful and the skills their employees actually have.
I have inventoried and studied and written all of the key things that you need to know to be successful.
Follow along with this podcast and you will learn what you need to know. I offer my 40 years of experience as a writer, helping people prepare for presentations and speeches, helped them with small talk, helped them with American accent and knowing about American culture and with career planning.
In these episodes you will hear very specific suggestions on how to make your presentations more memorable and powerful, how to engage in small talk so you can get to know your colleagues and clients better.
I offer a number of free courses for you so you can understand my style and I also do one-to-one coaching for people who have questions like “What should I do next?” and “What are the tools I need in my toolkit to be successful?”
Let me help you get the success you deserve. I’m Coach William Pitts and I’m here to help you! If you want to earn more, you need to learn more. Learning what you need to know is the first step.
My emphasis is on knowing the 20,000 words and phrases that you will use, not the nearly 500,000 English words in the big dictionary.
JOIN THE FREE BUSINESS ENGLISH EXECUTIVE COACHING CLUB
https://william-pitts-business-english-coaching.kit.com/3a6a623b6f
PODCAST NOTES
Today’s specific theme is about plan the work and then work the plan.
We’re going to use my father as an example. My Dad dreamed of having his own company. He wanted to make furniture. He didn’t know anything about business. He worked in an assembly factory but loved designing furniture.
My Dad drew a sketch that showed the size of all the pieces that he needed for making a table. Once he understood to the many costs and steps involved in making and selling his furniture.
He had a plan. He was successful because his plan included, first, making a business plan. Second, understanding all the steps involved in executing the plan. And third, increasing his skills and reducing his costs and understanding the cost of each table.
Now we have some small talk vocabulary and phrases using “plan”.
Example 1: “Plan the work and then work the plan..” This means understanding the business plan, outlining all the steps of the plan and then talking steps to make the plan work.
For example, my Dad’s business plan required him to estimate all the costs for making a table. He listed the cost of the wood per table, the cost of the machinery and the price of the labor involved.
He started this furniture business in our family garage and later had a small factory that made tables, chairs and bookcases.
Example 2: “Failing to plan means planning to fail.”
This idea means that knowing the costs and demand for a product or service will make it more likely for the business to make a profit and be successful.
Example 3: Phrases that use plan.
Make a plan
“We need to make a plan before we proceed with the furniture project.”
Come up with a plan
“My Dad’s friend came up with an excellent plan to estimate the costs of making furniture so it could be sold at a profit.”
Draw up a plan
“The purpose of today’s meeting is to draw up a plan to build and sell furniture.”
Map out a plan
“I think we should map out a plan before investing in the machinery to make the furniture.”
Work out a plan
“We must work out a plan on how to make a profit making furniture.”
Now what this means for you (even if you don’t want to make furniture) I help you develop your plan for success.
Please let me know your goal and let me know how I can help you plan your future success story.
HOW CAN YOU IMPROVE YOUR BUSINESS ENGLISH?
Employers in 2025 want their staff to have higher "soft skills" in making presentations plus small talk for success with colleagues and clients. This podcast lesson teaches the useful specific business English phrases for meetings.
What is your plan for 2025 and how I can help you make a career plan?
Say hello on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willliampittsbusinessenglish/
Get your free Presentations Skills course and Small Talk, Big Results business conversation course by sending an email to me at william@williampittsbusinessenglish.com.
Want more Business English tips? Join the Business English Executive Coaching Club. Learn the English you need for business (but you didn’t learn in school). What you get as a free member:
> Career planning tips
> Bonus resources on professional English
> First to know about new lessons
> Special discounts and offers
https://william-pitts-business-english-coaching.kit.com/3a6a623b6f
A0001 220225 EPISODE 2
Monday Feb 24, 2025
Monday Feb 24, 2025
EPISODE SUMMARY
Business English Presentation and public speaking mistakes can be avoided by knowing the audience, clearly stating your goal, using easy to understand presentation materials and practicing out loud.
When comedians get a great reaction from an audience, they say "I killed it up there" or "I killed it." When the audience doesn't react or laugh, comedians say "I died up there." If you don't want to "die", here are some tips on how to make your presentation interesting.
EXAMPLE CONTENT
Not Knowing Your Goal: Many speakers do not clearly understand what they want to achieve. It is important to know if you want to inform, persuade, or entertain your audience.
FREE PDF OF THE LESSON WITH BONUS CONTENT
You can download the PDF of notes for the episode. The PDF's include detailed notes on the subject, a quiz and lyrics to the songs (I write songs using words and phrases from the podcast for some of the topics).
Want more Business English tips? Join the Business English Executive Coaching Club. Learn the English you need for business (but you didn’t learn in school). What you get as a free member:
> Access to the podcast topic with detailed notes on the subject, a quiz and lyrics to the songs (I write songs using words and phrases from the podcast for some of the topics)
> Career planning tips
> Bonus resources on professional English
> First to know about new lessons
> Special discounts and offers
BUSINESS ENGLISH PODCAST TIPS
HOW CAN YOU IMPROVE YOUR BUSINESS ENGLISH?
Employers want their staff to have higher "soft skills" in making presentations plus small talk for success with colleagues and clients.
What is your plan for 2025 and how I can help you make a career plan?
Say hello on LinkedIn: Business English Success Coaching
Get your free Presentations Skills course and Small Talk, Big Results business conversation course by sending an email to me at william@williampittsbusinessenglish.com.
EPISODE NOTES
Not Knowing Your Goal: Many speakers do not clearly understand what they want to achieve. It is important to know if you want to inform, persuade, or entertain your audience.
Ignoring the Audience: If you do not understand your audience, you may make mistakes. You should know what they care about and how your presentation can help them.
Lack of Preparation: Not preparing enough can make your presentation messy. It is essential to practice and plan your content ahead of time.
Too Much Text on Slides: Presenters often put too much information on their slides. This can distract the audience because they may just read the slides instead of listening to you.
Speaking Unclearly: Not speaking clearly can frustrate your audience. Make sure to pronounce your words well and avoid using complicated language that they might not understand.
Reading from Slides: Simply reading what is on the slides can make the presentation boring. Instead, use the slides as a guide and talk directly to your audience.
Failing to Create Energy: Presenters sometimes lack enthusiasm, which can make the audience lose interest. Show energy and passion for your topic to keep them engaged.
Not Having a Clear Structure: Jumping from one point to another without a clear plan can confuse the audience. It is important to have an outline and stick to it.
Not Practicing Enough: Many presenters do not practice their delivery, which can lead to mistakes during the presentation. Practicing helps build confidence and clarity.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can improve your presentation skills and better connect with your audience.
A0105 110225
Monday Feb 24, 2025
Monday Feb 24, 2025
EPISODE SUMMARY
Most Business English meeting and interview self-introductions are dry and boring. They give the other person little information and no reason to continue the conversation.
You’ll learn how to introduce yourself in a charming manner using a technique that incudes interesting facts from your present situation, your past and your plans for the future.
This technique will help you feel more comfortable and confident when meeting new people, especially in business settings.
EXAMPLE CONTENT
The best self-introduction for meetings, interviews and conversation can include three parts: the present, the past and the future. This can include your name and occupation/profession plus some of your past history and the future you look forward to in working for the company.
FREE PDF OF THE LESSON WITH BONUS CONTENT
You can download the PDF of notes for the episode. The PDF's include detailed notes on the subject, a quiz and lyrics to the songs (I write songs using words and phrases from the podcast for some of the topics).
Want more Business English tips? Join the Business English Executive Coaching Club. Learn the English you need for business (but you didn’t learn in school). What you get as a free member:
> Access to the podcast topic with detailed notes on the subject, a quiz and lyrics to the songs (I write songs using words and phrases from the podcast for some of the topics)
> Career planning tips
> Bonus resources on professional English
> First to know about new lessons
> Special discounts and offers
BUSINESS ENGLISH PODCAST TIPS
HOW CAN YOU IMPROVE YOUR BUSINESS ENGLISH?
Employers want their staff to have higher "soft skills" in making presentations plus small talk for success with colleagues and clients.
What is your plan for 2025 and how I can help you make a career plan?
Say hello on LinkedIn: Business English Success Coaching
Get your free Presentations Skills course and Small Talk, Big Results business conversation course by sending an email to me at william@williampittsbusinessenglish.com.
Episode Notes
A0027 220225
Monday Feb 24, 2025
Monday Feb 24, 2025
EPISODE SUMMARY
The first episode of Learn More to Earn More—the podcast designed to help you improve your Business English skills so you can advance in your career. I’m Coach William Pitts, and I specialize in helping business professionals like you communicate more effectively in English. Whether you need to give a presentation, lead a meeting, engage in small talk, or reduce your anxiety about speaking English, this podcast is here to guide you.
FREE LESSON PDF WITH BONUS CONTENT
Want more Business English tips? Join the Business English Executive Coaching Club. Learn the English you need for business (but you didn’t learn in school). What you get as a free member:
> You can download the PDF of notes for the episode. The PDF's include detailed notes on the podcast subject. Some podcast episodes have a quiz; some podcast episodes have lyrics to the songs in the podcast (I write songs using words and phrases from the podcast for some of the topics).
> Career planning tips
> Bonus resources on professional English
> First to know about new lessons
> Special discounts and offers
Click on the line below to sign up for the newsletter and all the free extra tips and lessons
BUSINESS ENGLISH PODCAST TIPS
HOW CAN YOU IMPROVE YOUR BUSINESS ENGLISH?
Employers want their staff to have higher "soft skills" in making presentations plus small talk for success with colleagues and clients.
How I can help you make a career plan?
Say hello on LinkedIn: Business English Success Coaching
Get your free Presentations Skills course and Small Talk, Big Results business conversation course by sending an email to me at william@williampittsbusinessenglish.com.
A0140 250225 EPISODE 1
Wednesday Feb 19, 2025
Wednesday Feb 19, 2025
Episode Summary
In English small talk conversations, people say "Sorry to bother you", but do you say “sorry” too much? We hear business meeting and English small talk phrases using the word “sorry” but there are other phrases that are more precise and don’t sound as apologetic. Sorry is a useful word when you have made a mistake; these business English phrases are better if you vary your use of phrases, your English will sound more fluent and professional.
Here are some examples of how to reduce inappropriate of “sorry” to more precise and useful phrases.
Sorry to bother you, but do you say “sorry” too much? We hear business meeting and English small talk phrases using the word “sorry” but there are other phrases that are more precise and don’t sound as apologetic. Sorry is a useful word when you have made a mistake; these business English phrases are better if you vary your use of phrases. Your English will sound more fluent and professional.
Here are some examples of how to reduce inappropriate use or overuse of “sorry” to more precise and useful phrases.
Instead of saying “Sorry for rescheduling”, acknowledge the other person’s being considerate by saying “Thanks for being flexible”.
Instead of saying “Sorry to bother you”, show appreciation for the other person giving you some of their time by saying “Thanks for carving out time”.
Carving means to slice - we carve meat or an artist called a sculptor carves wood or stone to make a design or the shape of a body. Here, the person is cutting part or carving out part of their time to give it to you.
Instead of saying “Sorry for venting”, acknowledge the other person was patient in listening to you by saying “Thanks for listening”.
This word “vent” comes from volcanoes. A volcano has a top. If the volcano explodes, fire, smoke and ash come out of the top. Depending on how big the volcano is, and how big the explosion, the damage done can be huge. However, volcanoes sometimes develop a tear or hole in the side of the volcano - this fissure or gap helps to relieve the build up of pressure in the volcano. From the idea of pressure being released, “venting” means we complain or state dissatisfaction. It is similar to the phrase “letting off steam” where pressure builds up inside a tea kettle or engine.
Instead of saying “Sorry for running late”, you can show your appreciation for the other person’s time and patience by saying “Thanks so much for waiting”.
Instead of saying, “Sorry, I had to take that call”, you can show your appreciation for the other persons time and for waiting or being interrupted by saying “Thanks for your patience”.
Instead of saying “Sorry for jumping in” as if you are contradicting or interrupting the other person, you can say “I have an idea that may help”. It shows that you have a contribution to make and your opinion is valuable.
Instead of saying “Sorry for the mistakes”, you can say “Thanks for catching that!”. The other person might have noticed a missing period or full stop in your writing or they may have seen a typo. Here, to “catch” means they noticed something and hoped correct it.
Instead of saying “Sorry, I don’t get it” you can say “Would you repeat that? I just want to be clear”. That means the other person didn’t make a clear explanation. You are at fault for not “getting” or understanding what they said.
Instead of saying “Sorry, does that make sense?” You can say “I’m happy to answer any questions” as an invitation for people to ask questions.
A0088 220225
Friday Feb 14, 2025
Friday Feb 14, 2025
EPISODE SUMMARY
Small talk is an important "soft skill" to have - but conversations can stall and die if you don't ask questions that get the other person interested. The answer to “Did you?” can result in a yes or no answers. The conversation does not go any further.
Questions using "What” help us can learn what action a person took. It can lead to a better quality conversation. “What did you do this weekend?” is a deeper question that “Did you have a nice weekend?”
Use small talk questions with “What” will help us learn more about your colleague or client.
EXAMPLE CONTENT
Here are the five examples we will discuss.
1. What did you do this weekend?
2. What’s been keeping you busy?
3. What’s been the highlight?
4. What’s your connection?
5. What’s put a smile on your face?
FREE PDF OF THE LESSON WITH BONUS CONTENT
You can download the PDF of notes for the episode. The PDF's include detailed notes on the subject, and a quiz and lyrics to the songs (I write songs using words and phrases from the podcast for some of the topics).
Want more Business English tips? Join the Business English Executive Coaching Club. Learn the English you need for business (but you didn’t learn in school). What you get as a free member:
> Access to the podcast topic with detailed notes on the subject, a quiz and lyrics to the songs (I write songs using words and phrases from the podcast for some of the topics)
> Career planning tips
> Bonus resources on professional English
> First to know about new lessons
> Special discounts and offers
BUSINESS ENGLISH PODCAST TIPS
HOW CAN YOU IMPROVE YOUR BUSINESS ENGLISH?
Employers want their staff to have higher "soft skills" in making presentations plus small talk for success with colleagues and clients.
What is your plan for 2025 and how I can help you make a career plan?
LinkedIn ConnectionSay hello on LinkedIn: Business English Success Coaching
Get your free Presentations Skills course and Small Talk, Big Results business conversation course by sending an email to me at william@williampittsbusinessenglish.com.
EPISODE CONTENT
Here are the five examples we will discuss.
1. What did you do this weekend?
2. What’s been keeping you busy?
3. What’s been the highlight?
4. What’s your connection?
5. What’s put a smile on your face?
Here are some examples for alternatives to “What’s been keeping you busy?” - To that we can add a time period.
> What’s been keeping you busy lately?
> What’s been keeping you busy these days?
> What’s been keeping you this this month?
> What’s been keeping you busy this year?
Here are some examples for alternatives to "What’s been the highlight?” questions.
> What’s been the highlight of your day?
> What’s been the highlight of your week?
> What’s been the highlight of your month?
Here are some examples for alternatives to "What’s put a smile on your face?” questions. You can add a time period so they have more things to say).
> What’s put a smile on your face today?
> What’s put a smile on your face this week?
> What has put a smile on your face lately?
A0066 220225 EPISODE 9
Friday Feb 14, 2025
Friday Feb 14, 2025
EPISODE SUMMARY
The word "look" is used in many Business English conversations. If you want your colleagues and clients to "look up to you" (admire and respect) you should "look over" (read and learn) this lesson. When you study and learn more everyday phrases you can "look forward to" (anticipate with pleasure a future event or result) stronger, more confident English.
These phrases are part of 20,000 English words and phrases you need to be successful (there are nearly 500,000 words and phrases in the largest English dictionary, but most are never used). Listen and learn these phrases so you can understand what is being said and join in conversations and meetings.
EXAMPLE CONTENT
The top English phrases and idioms that use the word “look”.
Look after
Definition: To take care of someone or something.
Example 1: I’ll look after the project while you’re on vacation.
Example 2: She’s been looking after her younger siblings since their parents are away.
Example 3: Can you look after my dog while I’m out of town?
FREE PDF OF THE LESSON WITH BONUS CONTENT
You can download the PDF of notes for the episode. The PDF's include detailed notes on the subject, a quiz and lyrics to the songs (I write songs using words and phrases from the podcast for some of the topics).
Want more Business English tips? Join the Business English Executive Coaching Club. Learn the English you need for business (but you didn’t learn in school). What you get as a free member:
> Access to the podcast topic with detailed notes on the subject, a quiz and lyrics to the songs (I write songs using words and phrases from the podcast for some of the topics)
> Career planning tips
> Bonus resources on professional English
> First to know about new lessons
> Special discounts and offers
BUSINESS ENGLISH PODCAST TIPS
HOW CAN YOU IMPROVE YOUR BUSINESS ENGLISH?
Employers want their staff to have higher "soft skills" in making presentations plus small talk for success with colleagues and clients.
What is your plan for 2025 and how I can help you make a career plan?
Say hello on LinkedIn: Business English Success Coaching
Get your free Presentations Skills course and Small Talk, Big Results business conversation course by sending an email to me at william@williampittsbusinessenglish.com.
Episode Summary
The word "look" is used in many Business English conversations. If you want your colleagues and clients to "look up to you" (admire and respect) you should "look over" (read and learn) this lesson. When you study and learn more everyday phrases you can "look forward to" (anticipate with pleasure a future event or result) stronger, more confident English.
These phrases are part of 20,000 English words and phrases you need to be successful (there are 475,000 words and phrases in the largest English dictionary, but most are never used). Listen and learn these phrases so you can understand what is being said and join in conversations and meetings.
Show Notes
The top English phrases and idioms that use the word “look”.
Look after
Definition: To take care of someone or something.
Example 1: I’ll look after the project while you’re on vacation.
Example 2: She’s been looking after her younger siblings since their parents are away.
Example 3: Can you look after my dog while I’m out of town?
Look down at
Definition: To direct your eyes downward, often to focus on something below you.
Example 1: He looked down at his phone while waiting for the call.
Example 2: She looked down at the street from her balcony.
Example 3: When he heard the bad news, he looked down at the floor in disappointment.
Look down on
Definition: To regard someone or something as inferior.
Example 1: He tends to look down on people who don’t have a university degree.
Example 2: It’s wrong to look down on others just because they make different choices.
Example 3: She felt that her colleagues looked down on her because she was new.
Look forward to
Definition: Look forward to (anticipate with pleasure)
Example 1: I'm looking forward to the weekend.
Example 2: We're looking forward to seeing you next week.
Example 3: She's looking forward to her vacation.
Look in on
Definition: To visit someone briefly, usually to check on their well-being.
Example 1: Could you look in on me tomorrow to see if I’m feeling better?
Example 2: I always look in on my neighbor to make sure she’s okay.
Example 3: She looked in on her friend after the surgery.
Look into
Definition: To investigate or examine something.
Example 1: The company is looking into ways to improve its customer service.
Example 2: The police are looking into the incident to find out what happened.
Example 3: We need to look into this issue before making a decision.
Look out for yourself
Definition: To be cautious and careful in a dangerous situation.
Example 1: The road is flooded. Look out for yourself when you are driving home so you don’t have an accident.
Example 2: In a crowded city, you have to look out for yourself, especially when crossing busy streets.
Example 3: If you're traveling alone in an unfamiliar place, it's important to look out for yourself and stay safe.
Look over
Definition: To review something carefully.
Example 1: Could you look over the document before we submit it?
Example 2: She asked her friend to look over the report for any mistakes.
Example 3: I always look over my notes before a presentation.
Look to
Definition: To rely on or expect someone to help or guide you.
Example 1: We always look to our manager for advice on important decisions.
Example 2: As a leader, you should be someone your team can look to in difficult times.
Example 3: When I'm unsure, I look to my parents for support.
Look through
Definition: To quickly scan or search through something, like documents or items.
Example 1: I need to look through these papers before the meeting.
Example 2: She looked through the emails but couldn’t find the one she was looking for.
Example 3: I’ll look through the book tonight to prepare for the class.
Look (someone/something) up
Definition: To search for someone or something, especially to visit or contact them after a period of not being in touch.
Example 1: I’ll look you up when I’m in town next week.
Example 2: She decided to look up her old college friends after 10 years.
Example 3: Whenever I travel, I look up local landmarks to explore.
Look up
Definition: To search for information or find something, especially in a book, database, or online.
Example 1: Let me look up the word in the dictionary.
Example 2: I looked up the company’s address before visiting.
Example 3: Can you look up the train schedule for me?
Look up to
Definition: To admire or respect someone.
Example 1: Many young athletes look up to their coaches.
Example 2: She has always looked up to her older sister.
Example 3: He’s the kind of teacher that students look up to.
HOW CAN YOU IMPROVE YOUR BUSINESS ENGLISH?
A0005 200225 EPISODE 6
Friday Feb 14, 2025
Friday Feb 14, 2025
EPISODE SUMMARY
Business English skills companies want their employee to have are lacking - the Nippon.com survey of large Japanese employers showed 82% considered English as an important skill in the workplace but only 65% were satisfied with their employee’s ability. Further, communications skills were ranked at 80% important but a small 35% were satisfied with their employee’s level.
The podcast has notes on the five areas where an employee can increase their skills.
How can you improve your skillset?
EXAMPLE CONTENT
Five Things Employers Wish Their Employees Knew About Business English
1. Clarity and Precision Matter
Why It's Important: In business, clarity and precision are crucial for effective communication. Misunderstandings can lead to errors, missed opportunities, and costly mistakes.
What Employees Should Know: Use simple, direct language. Avoid jargon and overly complex sentences. Be clear about your message and what you need from the recipient.
FREE PDF OF THE LESSON WITH BONUS CONTENT
You can download the PDF of notes for the episode. The PDF's include detailed notes on the subject, a quiz and lyrics to the songs (I write songs using words and phrases from the podcast for some of the topics).
Want more Business English tips? Join the Business English Executive Coaching Club. Learn the English you need for business (but you didn’t learn in school). What you get as a free member:
> Access to the podcast topic with detailed notes on the subject, a quiz and lyrics to the songs (I write songs using words and phrases from the podcast for some of the topics)
> Career planning tips
> Bonus resources on professional English
> First to know about new lessons
> Special discounts and offers
Click on the link below to get your free learning material:
BUSINESS ENGLISH PODCAST TIPS
HOW CAN YOU IMPROVE YOUR BUSINESS ENGLISH?
Employers want their staff to have higher "soft skills" in making presentations plus small talk for success with colleagues and clients.
What is your plan for 2025 and how I can help you make a career plan?
Say hello on LinkedIn: Business English Success Coaching
Get your free Presentations Skills course and Small Talk, Big Results business conversation course by sending an email to me at william@williampittsbusinessenglish.com.
EPISODE NOTES
Five Things Employers Wish Their Employees Knew About Business English
1. Clarity and Precision Matter
Why It's Important: In business, clarity and precision are crucial for effective communication. Misunderstandings can lead to errors, missed opportunities, and costly mistakes.
What Employees Should Know: Use simple, direct language. Avoid jargon and overly complex sentences. Be clear about your message and what you need from the recipient.
2. Cultural Sensitivity and Professionalism
Why It's Important: Business English isn't just about language; it's about understanding cultural nuances and maintaining professionalism. This fosters better relationships and collaboration.
What Employees Should Know: Learn the cultural norms of your colleagues and clients. Use polite forms of address and be mindful of different communication styles and customs.
3. The Importance of Tone
Why It's Important: The tone of your communication can significantly impact how your message is received. A positive, respectful tone can build rapport and trust, while a negative tone can damage relationships.
What Employees Should Know: Be aware of how your tone comes across in both written and spoken English. Aim for a professional yet approachable tone, and be especially careful with humor and sarcasm, which may not translate well across cultures.
4. Email Etiquette
Why It's Important: Email is a primary mode of communication in business, and proper email etiquette ensures your messages are taken seriously and responded to appropriately.
What Employees Should Know: Use a clear and concise subject line. Start with a polite greeting, be direct yet polite in the body of the email, and end with a courteous closing. Proofread for errors before sending.
5. The Power of Listening and Asking Questions
Why It's Important: Effective communication is a two-way street. Listening well and asking the right questions can prevent misunderstandings and demonstrate respect and engagement.
What Employees Should Know: Practice active listening. Pay attention to what is being said and show that you understand by summarizing and asking follow-up questions. Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification if something is unclear.
These elements of business English not only improve individual performance but also contribute to a more efficient, respectful, and collaborative workplace. By mastering these aspects, employees can enhance their professional image and effectiveness in a global business environment.
HOW CAN YOU IMPROVE YOUR BUSINESS ENGLISH?
What is your plan for 2025 and how I can help you make a career plan?
Say hello on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willliampittsbusinessenglish/
Get your free Presentations Skills course and Small Talk, Big Results business conversation course by sending an email to me at william@williampittsbusinessenglish.com.
Want more Business English tips? Join the Business English Executive Coaching Club. Learn the English you need for business (but you didn’t learn in school). What you get as a free member:
> Career planning tips
> Bonus resources on professional English
> First to know about new lessons
> Special discounts and offers
https://william-pitts-business-english-coaching.kit.com/3a6a623b6f