Business English Expressions at Work

In this episode of Expressions at Work, we explore an essential professional skill: managing up.

How do you influence your boss without formal authority?
 How do you communicate strategically with senior leadership in English?

In this Advanced Business English ESL episode, you’ll learn practical workplace expressions that help you sound confident, clear, and professional when speaking to managers or executives.

You’ll learn phrases such as:

In this episode of Expressions at Work, we focus on a critical professional skill: pushing back politely.

In international and fast-paced workplaces, agreeing too quickly can lead to overload, missed deadlines, and frustration. Strong professionals know how to push back clearly — without sounding defensive, negative, or weak.

In this episode, you’ll learn practical business expressions such as:

This...

In this episode of Expressions at Work, we explore one of the most underrated professional skills: managing expectations.

Many workplace problems don’t come from poor performance — they come from assumptions, overpromising, and misaligned timelines. In this episode, you’ll learn how experienced professionals protect trust and credibility by setting expectations early and adjusting them strategically.

You’ll hear real-world business expressions such as:

In Episode 77 of Expressions at Work, we shift to a monologue-style format and step into the world of management consulting. Set inside a high-pressure consulting engagement, this episode explores how professionals handle tough conversations, internal resistance, and critical business decisions.

Ideal for B1–B2 learners, this episode focuses on clear, natural business English used in real decision-making environments.

In this episode, you’ll hear a CEO-style end-of-year message designed for Business English learners at B2 level.

First, you’ll listen to a short executive reflection on the past year — the kind of message often shared with employees and stakeholders. Then, each key business expression is clearly explained in simple, practical English.

This episode will help you:

For Episode 76 of "Expressions at Work," titled "Brand Strategy Overhaul," let's focus on expressions like "lay the groundwork," "pivot strategy," "flesh out," and "push the envelope." This episode will feature a dialogue set during a high-stakes branding meeting where the team must rethink their brand positioning to stay competitive. We'll explore how strategic thinking and creative adjustments can help drive business success.

In Episode 74 of "Expressions at Work," titled Elevating Brand Presence at NovaTech Solutions, we focus on expressions like “Make Waves,” “Raise the Bar,” “Hit the Ground Running,” and “Brand Loyalty.” Follow the branding team as they brainstorm ways to refine their visual identity, create interactive campaigns, and build deeper connections with their audience. Learn how innovation and collaboration drive brand success.

In this episode, we explore how to resolve conflicts within a team. Through a scenario in a marketing department, we’ll learn useful expressions for finding common ground, de-escalating tense situations, and giving constructive feedback to keep the team on track.

📚 Learn Business English | Managing Project Delays + Vocabulary

In this podcast, you’ll learn how to talk about managing project delays in English. We’ll go through a real-life example of how to handle delays in a project and how to communicate clearly with clients. You’ll also learn useful business vocabulary that you can use at work.

🌟 What You Will Learn:

At the end of the podcast we’ll go over the key vocabulary t...

In this podcast we will practice English through three business monologues. These talks will help you learn new words and phrases that are useful in the workplace. You will hear examples of real-life situations like making sales plans, solving project problems, and planning your career growth.

Welcome to Episode 73 of "Expressions at Work," titled Navigating Market Trends at NovaTech Solutions. In this episode, we’ll delve into expressions like “Stay Ahead of the Curve,” “Think Outside the Box,” “Keep Your Finger on the Pulse,” and “Game Changer.” Today’s scenario features a strategic meeting where the team discusses adapting to the latest market trends.

We explore expressions like “Make a Splash,” “Brand Identity,” “Stand Out from the Crowd,” and “Leave a Lasting Impression.” Join us as we sit in on a branding team meeting where creative professionals discuss how to redefine NovaTech Solutions' brand and create a memorable, impactful presence in the market.

Welcome to Episode 71 of our Business English series! 🌟 In this lesson, we'll explore important vocabulary and expressions related to cybersecurity in the business world. 

🔒 Join us as we follow NovaTech Solutions, a tech company working to improve its cybersecurity. You'll learn useful terms like:

• Zero Trust Architecture
• Threat Intelligence
• Incident Response
• Security Compliance

🗣️ Listen to conversations between company leaders and learn how to discuss cybersecurity issues in English. We'll explain each new term and show you how to use it in context.

📝 Key learning points:
- Vocabulary related to cybersecurit...

Episode 70: The Art of the Deal - Mastering High-Stakes Negotiations at NovaTech Solutions

In this episode of "Tech Innovations," we pull back the curtain on the high-stakes world of business negotiations at NovaTech Solutions. As the tech landscape becomes increasingly competitive, the ability to secure favorable deals can make or break a company's future. Join us as we explore how NovaTech's leadership team is honing their negotiation skills to clinch game-changing partnerships, lucrative contracts, and strategic acquisitions.

Script With Definitions:
Let me take you through a typical discussion in the human resources department. Good morning, colleagues. I wanted to go over (review) a few items on our agenda for today's HR meeting. Let's dive right in (begin). 

First off, we need to finalize (complete) the recruitment plan for the new product development team. Marketing has projected (forecasted) that we'll need to bring on (hire) at least 8 new software engineers by the end of Q3. I've reviewed (evaluated) the job descriptions and qualifications we'd be looking for. Based on the technical requirements outlined (specified), I...

Episode 68: Partnering for Success - Leveraging Strategic Collaborations at NovaTech Solutions

We look at the world of strategic partnerships and explore how NovaTech Solutions is leveraging the power of collaboration to drive innovation and growth. In today's fast-paced tech landscape, joining forces with the right partners can be a game-changer, opening doors to new opportunities, resources, and cutting-edge solutions.

Join us as we study expressions like "Symbiotic Relationships," "Complementary Strengths," "Pooling Resources," and "Win-Win Collaborations." Our special guests, including NovaTech's executive team and industry experts, will share their insights on the art of forging successful...

In the previous episode, we went behind the scenes as NovaTech Solutions' leadership kicked off their major restructuring initiative to maintain a competitive edge. This week we catch up with the team a few weeks later as they regroup to evaluate their progress so far.

Tune in as the CEO, CFO, CIO and CMO reveal how efforts to "trim the fat", implement a "lean tech ecosystem", and "double down" on rebranding are paying off. With "costs under control" and "customer engagement picking up", there are signs NovaTech may be "turning the corner".

However, the team...

We take you behind the scenes at NovaTech Solutions, a leading tech company undergoing a major restructuring effort. With increasing competition and rapidly changing customer demands, NovaTech's leadership team convenes an urgent meeting to chart their new strategic course.

Join us as we sit in on their candid discussions featuring phrases like "tighten our belts", "costs through the roof", "cut operational fat", "the writing is on the wall", and "double down". Hear firsthand how the CEO, CFO, CIO and CMO align their teams to navigate the choppy waters ahead. 

While the road to reinvention won't b...

In today's fast-paced tech landscape, innovation is the key to staying ahead of the curve. At NovaTech Solutions, they understand that fostering an agile and collaborative environment is crucial for driving continuous innovation and delivering exceptional value to their customers.

In this episode of "Tech Innovations," we go behind the scenes at NovaTech Solutions to explore their approach to embracing agility and cross-functional collaboration. Join us as we delve into expressions like "Adaptive Methodologies," "Cross-Functional Synergy," "Customer-Centric Approach," and "Knowledge Sharing."

Through insightful conversations with the company's leadership team, including the CEO, CTO, Head of...

In Episode 64 of "Tech Innovations," titled 'Innovating Through Adversity at NovaTech Solutions,' we delve into the challenges faced by NovaTech Solutions, a tech company striving to maintain its competitive edge in a rapidly evolving market. Join us as we witness their determination and innovation in the face of adversity, showcasing expressions like "Rising Above Adversity," "Staying Ahead of the Curve," "Innovative Solutions," and "Resilient Leadership." Explore how NovaTech Solutions navigates these obstacles with resilience and innovation, setting an example for companies in the ever-changing tech landscape.

In this episode, we explored the nuances of business etiquette and professionalism through the experiences of the team at Pinnacle Enterprises. Expressions like "Maintaining a Professional Demeanor," "Exercising Discretion," "Minding Your P's and Q's," and "Extending Courtesies" are essential for building strong professional relationships, fostering trust, and creating a positive work environment. Tune in to learn more about the significance of etiquette and professionalism in the business world.

Every workplace requires the ability to give and receive feedback effectively. However, this critical skill isn't always easy. On this episode, we'll model a realistic scenario where a manager provides constructive criticism to an employee about a missed deadline.

You'll hear the full conversation role-play between Jennifer and Brian, then we'll break down the key language used line-by-line, defining important vocabulary like:

Top-notch
Based on the metrics
Align on prioritizing
Major initiatives
Missed that first milestone
Looped you in
Going forward
Deliverables

Episode 61 provides valuable insights into the complex yet essential process of obtaining regulatory approval for new medications. Stay tuned as we follow the team at NexGen Pharma through the various stages of the drug approval process and learn how their dedication and expertise contribute to bringing innovative treatments to those in need.

Episode 60 offers an inside look into the intricate process of launching a new drug, as witnessed in the dynamic environment of NexGen Pharma. Tune in to learn how expressions like "Launching a New Drug," "Clinical Trials," "Regulatory Approval," and "Marketing Strategy" play a vital role in bringing innovative medications to patients in need.

Episode 59 provides valuable insights into effective conflict resolution strategies, as demonstrated in the dynamic environment of Brightside Solutions. Tune in to learn how expressions like "Addressing Issues," "Finding Common Ground," "Active Listening," and "Seeking Compromise" can help you navigate conflicts and foster a positive work environment in your workplace.

In Episode 58 of "Expressions at Work," titled 'Phrasal Verbs in Business,' we explore the use of phrasal verbs commonly encountered in professional environments. Phrasal verbs, comprising a verb and one or more particles, are ubiquitous in business communication and play a vital role in conveying meaning efficiently. Join us as we delve into expressions like "Take On," "Look Into," "Come Across," and "Follow Up." Set in the bustling headquarters of Global Solutions Inc., this episode follows a team of professionals navigating various business scenarios where phrasal verbs are integral to effective communication. Tune in to learn how incorporating...

In Episode 57 of "Expressions at Work," titled 'Effective Communication Strategies,' we delve into essential techniques for improving communication skills in the workplace. Join us as we explore expressions like "Active Listening," "Clear and Concise Communication," "Empathetic Communication," and "Constructive Feedback." Set in the vibrant offices of Brightside Consulting, this episode follows Evan, the team leader, as he leads a discussion on communication strategies during a team meeting. Discover practical insights into enhancing communication effectiveness and fostering better teamwork in any workplace setting. Tune in to learn how active listening, clear and concise communication, empathetic communication, and constructive feedback...

In Episode 56 of "Expressions at Work," titled 'Navigating Change in the Workplace,' Tech Innovations grapples with the challenges of adapting to a rapidly evolving business landscape. Join us as we explore expressions like "Embrace Change," "Stay Agile," "Adapt on the Fly," and "Maintain Resilience." Set during a dynamic company-wide town hall meeting, this episode offers practical insights into navigating change effectively and fostering a culture of resilience and innovation. Tune in to learn strategies for embracing change, staying agile, adapting on the fly, and maintaining resilience in your own workplace.

In Episode 54 of "Expressions at Work," titled 'Optimizing Operational Efficiency,' Tech Innovations embarks on a journey to fine-tune its operations for maximum effectiveness. Set within a team workshop dedicated to operational optimization, this episode explores strategies to streamline processes, maximize resources, enhance workflows, and drive productivity across various departments. Through dynamic dialogue and practical insights, listeners gain valuable perspectives on how Tech Innovations navigates the complexities of operational efficiency, ensuring they remain agile, responsive, and competitive in today's dynamic business landscape.

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In Episode 53 of "Expressions at Work," titled 'Sustaining Growth in Competitive Markets,' the Tech Innovations team navigates the challenges of maintaining momentum in the face of increasing competition. Set in a quarterly strategic review meeting, the episode delves into key strategies for sustaining growth, including staying the course despite challenges, continuous innovation, scaling up operations, and edging out the competition. Through dynamic dialogue, listeners gain valuable insights into how Tech Innovations strategically approaches growth amidst competitive markets, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, innovation, and strategic decision-making in driving sustainable success.

Episode 52 of "Expressions at Work," titled 'Exploring New Markets,' takes listeners behind the scenes of Tech Innovations' strategic meeting focused on expanding the business into uncharted territories. The episode unpacks critical steps for entering new markets, including conducting a comprehensive "Market Analysis," identifying "Market Gaps" to fill, planning a "Strategic Entry," and ways to "Build Market Presence." Through engaging dialogue among team members, the episode highlights the importance of understanding market dynamics, tailoring products to meet specific local needs, and the strategic nuances of establishing a strong market foothold. This episode offers valuable insights for businesses looking to...

In this episode, the Tech Innovations team faces the exciting challenge of growing their ranks. With the need to scale up operations, Alex, Jenna, and Mike discuss the best practices for attracting top talent and ensuring a smooth transition into the team. They emphasize the importance of "Casting a Wide Net" to ensure a diverse pool of candidates, "Finding the Right Fit" for the company's culture and goals, effectively managing the "Onboarding Process" to support new hires, and preparing them to "Hit the Ground Running" in their new roles. Through their dialogue, listeners gain insights into creating a...

Episode 50 of "Expressions at Work," titled 'Reflecting on Lessons Learned,' serves as a reflective conclusion to the series focusing on a major deal negotiation. In this episode, the team at Tech Innovations takes a moment to look back on their journey, utilizing expressions like "Hindsight is 20/20," "Take Stock," "Lessons Learned," and "Looking Forward" to articulate the insights gained from their experiences. Through thoughtful discussion, the team identifies key strengths and areas for improvement, highlighting the value of communication, adaptability, and strategic thinking. This episode emphasizes the importance of learning from past actions and applying these lessons to future...

Episode 49 of "Expressions at Work," titled 'Finalizing the Deal,' chronicles the pivotal moments as the Tech Innovations team concludes negotiations on a significant business deal. This episode highlights the critical final steps in the negotiation process, using expressions such as "Cross the Finish Line," "Dot the I's and Cross the T's," "Shake on It," and "Win-Win Outcome." Through the team's careful attention to detail and commitment to mutual benefit, listeners will learn the importance of thoroughness and strategic compromise in securing successful agreements. The episode offers valuable lessons on ensuring all elements of a deal are meticulously reviewed...

This episode illustrates the delicate balance of making strategic compromises to advance negotiations, offering insights into how flexibility, creativity, and understanding of mutual benefits can lead to successful outcomes.

Episode 47 of "Expressions at Work," titled 'The Art of Persuasion in Negotiations,' advances the narrative of the Tech Innovations team as they navigate the intricacies of negotiation. This episode sheds light on essential persuasive techniques needed to sway outcomes favorably, exploring expressions like "Find Common Ground," "Win Hearts and Minds," "Make a Compelling Case," and "Tip the Scales." Through strategic discussions, the team demonstrates how to leverage shared interests, appeal to emotional and rational aspects, and present their offerings compellingly. This episode offers valuable insights for professionals looking to enhance their negotiation skills with persuasive communication, aiming for...

Episode 46 of "Expressions at Work," titled 'Preparing for High-Stakes Negotiations,' kicks off a new series where the team at Tech Innovations embarks on negotiating a major deal. This episode explores critical expressions such as "Lay the Groundwork," "Bring to the Table," "Negotiate from Strength," and "Seal the Deal," set against the backdrop of a strategic meeting. Listeners will gain insight into the meticulous preparation and strategic thinking required to enter high-stakes negotiations confidently. Through discussions on leveraging unique strengths, understanding the negotiation landscape, and aiming for a win-win outcome, this episode offers valuable strategies for anyone looking to...

This episode highlights the critical role of understanding and applying market trends and data in strategic business planning, offering listeners insights into improving their strategic decision-making and innovation processes.

Breaking Down the Expressions:

Episode 44 of "Expressions at Work," titled 'Mastering Time Management,' delves into essential strategies for enhancing productivity and efficiently managing workloads. Through a dialogue set in a time management workshop, the episode explores expressions such as "Prioritize Your Tasks," "Avoid Procrastination," "Set Realistic Deadlines," and "Time Blocking." Listeners will learn practical techniques for organizing their tasks, setting achievable goals, and allocating their time effectively to boost focus and productivity. This episode is particularly beneficial for professionals seeking to improve their time management skills and achieve a better balance in their work life.

This episode discusses the critical role of communication skills in professional settings, focusing on clear expression, mutual understanding, and the importance of listening in collaborative environments.