Business English Pod / Negotiating / Page 4

BEP 174 – Meetings: Considering a Proposal 2

Business English, English for Meetings, Negotiating, Persuasion /

This is the second in a two-part Business English Pod series about an internal meeting to consider a proposal.

As we saw in the last episode, this type of meeting can be similar to a negotiation. People with different opinions sit around the table and try to convince each other that their idea is the best. So in this situation, you need to be very persuasive and provide good reasons for your recommendations.

In this lesson, we’ll look at how to express doubt, admit risk, confirm support, and speculate about possible future situations or scenarios. We’ll also cover language that you can use to highlight any concessions you might have won in a previous negotiation.

In today’s dialog, we’ll rejoin Steve and his managers as they discuss a proposal for language training. Steve is recommending a blended training model that would combine classroom sessions with online training.

Listening Questions

1. Which advantage of online training does Steve focus on?
2. What is the main concern of the two female managers?
3. If the blended approach doesn’t work, what do they have the option of doing?

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BEP 173 – Meetings: Considering a Proposal 1

Business English, English for Meetings, Negotiating, Persuasion /

This is the first of a two-part Business English Pod series on an internal meeting to consider a proposal. This lesson follows on from our recent three-part series on meeting with an external vendor (BEP 170 – 172).

Meeting to discuss a proposal is like an internal negotiation. The people at the table may have different opinions about the best option or course of action. These people need to support their ideas with strong reasons and try to convince others of their position. In the end, only one option or proposal will be chosen, so it’s important to come prepared.

In this lesson, we’ll focus on defining options and outlining both advantages and disadvantages of a proposal. We’ll also see how we can show that we’ve fully examined a potential vendor’s background and how we can support our ideas with solid reasons.

In today’s dialog, we’ll listen to Steve meeting with his HR and Line managers. Steve has found an external vendor, called Lexis, to conduct language training. Steve is trying to convince the managers to choose the blended delivery model proposed by Lexis.

Listening Questions

1. What are the advantages and disadvantages of online training?
2. How does the male manager seem to feel about online training?
3. What does Steve say about Lexis Training Solution’s reputation?

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BEP 148 – How to Ask for a Pay Raise (2)

Advanced, Business English, ESL Podcast, Human Resources, Negotiating /

This is the second of a two-part Business English Pod series on how to ask for a pay raise.

Asking for a pay raise is a two-step process. Before any discussion of compensation begins, it’s important to state your case and demonstrate why you deserve a raise. Let your boss know of your achievements and your value to the company.

The second part involves negotiating. This is the time to start talking about specific numbers and benefits, but it must be handled diplomatically. You’ll need to outline what you want, acknowledge the other party’s concerns and bargain for the best deal.

In the last episode, we listened to Ryan, a salesman at an industrial supply company called Pylon, present his case to his boss, Jacob. Ryan pointed out that his relationship with Alliance Builders brought in more sales overall. He also took on some web design work in addition to his sales duties. Now, Ryan and Jacob are ready to start negotiating Ryan’s compensation.

Listening Questions

1. How much does Ryan think he should receive for the web design work? Why?
2. Why can’t Jacob give Ryan the amount of money he wants?
3. What do Jacob and Ryan agree to in regard to Alliance Builders?

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BEP 147 – How to Ask for a Pay Raise (1)

Advanced, Business English, ESL Podcast, Human Resources, Negotiating /

This is the first of a two-part Business English Pod series on how to ask for a pay raise.

Asking for a pay raise makes many people uncomfortable, but it’s most definitely to our benefit to make the effort.

Getting a raise is more than just asking, though. Before the discussion can start, you need to prepare. Make a list of your achievements and quantify them with numbers and examples, if you can. It’s also helpful to get an idea of how your compensation compares to industry averages. You can easily find this information online or at the library. Remember that there can be more to compensation than salary, like health insurance, retirement plans, and stock options.

Today, we’ll listen as Ryan, a salesman at an industrial supply company called Pylon, discusses his salary with Jacob, his boss. Ryan would like a pay raise, but first, he needs to show Jacob why he deserves one. Notice how Ryan has thoroughly prepared for this meeting and is able to provide specific examples to support his case.

Listening Questions

1. Is Ryan is happy with his job? What reasons does he give?
2. Why is Ryan’s relationship with Alliance Builders important?
3. What is the difference in the pay structure for web design and sales work differ?

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Business English for Negotiations e-Book Preview

Announcements, Business English e-Books, Negotiating /

Business English for Negotiations eBookThis is a preview of our new Business English e-book on negotiation skills: Successful Negotiations in English for ESL Learners.

Business English Pod e-Books enable you to learn on the go with MP3 audio lessons, review key language and techniques with the detailed PDF study guide, including a full transcript of each lesson; and practice useful phrases and language with interactive quizzes.

Click the launch button to view the online quizzes for Unit 407 – Bargaining:

You can purchase the complete e-book, including the PDF study guide, podcast lessons, key language and practice MP3, and access to the online Flash quizzes and vocabulary flashcards, by clicking the button below: