Discussing sensitive topics in English
A difficult question about family, money or change calls for tact and space for the other person to choose whether to respond.
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A difficult question about family, money or change calls for tact and space for the other person to choose whether to respond.
Read and practiseAn uncertain result can be unsettling. Acknowledge the concern, suggest a concrete next step and offer support without making promises.
Read and practiseAn uneven workload can cause tension at home or work. Discuss the division of tasks, suggest a fair change and agree when to revisit it.
Read and practiseA damaged purchase deserves a clear response: set out the facts, explain the impact and request a specific remedy in a formal letter.
Read and practiseTwo documents give different deadlines. Identify both sources and ask a focused question so the recipient can resolve the conflict.
Read and practiseA name, a role and a friendly greeting help you start a conversation with a new colleague in English.
Read and practiseA missing pen or an empty printer tray is a good reason to ask a colleague politely for the supplies you need.
Read and practiseDoors and signs at work indicate where people can enter, leave, or find areas reserved for staff.
Read and practiseA new workplace can be easier to navigate when you can name common areas and ask where to find them.
Read and practiseStarting at seven or finishing at five: ask about a shift and tell a colleague your working hours in English.
Read and practiseA short pause and a clear return time help colleagues plan their work; practise asking for a break in English.
Read and practiseRegular tasks and the people you work with are easier to explain using simple present-tense sentences in English.
Read and practiseA new workplace brings practical questions: find where to report, whom to speak to and what to do first in English.
Read and practiseA clear question about a task and a check of its first step help you begin work with confidence.
Read and practiseA broken device or a wet floor needs a clear description and a precise location when you tell a colleague.
Read and practiseA polite request with exact dates lets your manager understand which days you need away from work.
Read and practiseAn illness message tells your manager you cannot work and gives a time for your next update.
Read and practiseA change of plans at work calls for a polite request, a clear reply and confirmation of the new shift times.
Read and practiseAt the end of a shift, tell the next worker what is finished, what remains and when to act.
Read and practiseA customer enters a shop or café: a warm greeting and a simple offer of help make the first conversation easier.
Read and practiseA caller needs to wait while you check a detail: ask politely, explain the reason and thank them when you return.
Read and practiseA caller needs the right person: explain that you are connecting the call and ask them to wait.
Read and practiseA clear recorded message tells a colleague who is calling, why they called and how to return the call.
Read and practiseA clear update tells a colleague what is done and identifies anything still needed before the work is closed.
Read and practise