
Learning English For Work
Short podcasts to improve your English at work. Find more at bbclearningenglish.comFollow us at
bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followus
Latest episodes

6 snips
Mar 31, 2025 • 11min
Office English: Selling Yourself
Discussing how to effectively 'sell yourself' at work, the hosts explore strategies for sharing your achievements during interviews and performance reviews. They emphasize the importance of communicating personal strengths confidently, using evidence and specific examples to demonstrate impact. The conversation also touches on mastering common interview questions and balancing modesty with self-promotion. This insightful dialogue equips listeners with the tools to make a positive impression and enhance their professional visibility.

Mar 24, 2025 • 10min
Office English: Negotiating
Negotiating can be nerve-wracking, but clarity in your goals is key. Discover how to balance directness with politeness to set the right tone. Starting high can lead to better outcomes, as shared through intriguing personal anecdotes. Skills for effective discussions focus on using friendly language while negotiating salaries or deals. Finally, learn strategies to end negotiations positively, ensuring relationships remain intact while achieving your desired results.

Mar 17, 2025 • 11min
Office English: Conflict
Navigating workplace conflict can be tricky. The hosts share strategies for handling disagreements with professionalism and tact. They discuss the balance of differing opinions and authority in conversations. Tips include focusing on the impact of the conflict rather than personal feelings. They also dive into the nuances of imposter syndrome, highlighting how it affects communication at work. With an emphasis on politeness, their insights foster a constructive dialogue and maintain productivity amidst disagreements.

Mar 17, 2025 • 11min
Office English: Conflict
We don't always agree with people at work. But we still need to get the job done. In this episode of Office English, Pippa and Phil talk about how to stay polite and professional at work when conflict arises. Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/office-english/240311 Note: this programme was first broadcast in March 2024. (Image credit: BBC/Getty Images) FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website
✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us
✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followus SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER:
✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/newsletters LIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other popular podcasts including:
✔️ 6 Minute English
✔️ Learning English Conversations
✔️ Learning English Stories They're all available by searching in your podcast app.

Mar 10, 2025 • 13min
Office English: Bad News
Navigating bad news at work can be tricky. Discover how to recognize when bad news is coming your way, and learn the vital differences between being sacked and made redundant. The use of euphemisms in the workplace is examined, revealing how phrases like 'budget cuts' can soften harsh realities. Strategies for delivering layoffs with empathy and clarity are discussed, emphasizing cultural context and emotional support. Tune in for insights on managing those difficult conversations with care!

Mar 3, 2025 • 12min
Office English: Work events
Discover the art of small talk in professional settings, from office parties to conferences. The hosts share tips on effective networking and maintaining engaging conversations. Learn how compliments and open-ended questions can help you connect with others. Gain insight into preparing talking points and building confidence for meaningful discussions. Explore the vital role small talk plays in cultivating workplace relationships, especially within UK culture.

Feb 24, 2025 • 11min
Office English: Mistakes
Mistakes in the workplace are inevitable, and acknowledging them is crucial. Discover practical phrases for admitting errors and effective strategies to communicate with clients. Empathy, understanding, and solutions like discounts help mend relationships after mishaps. Learn how to transform mistakes into opportunities for growth through debriefing and reflection. Rebuilding trust with both colleagues and clients is essential, and clear communication plays a key role in this process.

13 snips
Feb 17, 2025 • 12min
Office English: Calls and instant messages
Uncover the art of clear communication in the office! Discover effective strategies for video calls and instant messaging, including etiquette tips for professionalism. Tune in for insights on balancing casual and formal tones in messages, plus the role of emojis and GIFs. Learn how shifting from phone calls to video interactions impacts productivity. Also, get practical phrases for troubleshooting during video calls and explore the benefits of instant messaging over traditional emails. It’s all about modern workplace communication!

Feb 10, 2025 • 12min
Office English: Chasing people
Ever felt frustrated waiting for a colleague's response? This podcast dives into the art of chasing up on tasks without crossing the line into rudeness. It offers strategies for polite reminders while maintaining professionalism. Discover how to balance urgency with courtesy and adapt your language based on workplace culture. The hosts share insights on effective communication methods, including phone calls and face-to-face chats, while highlighting cultural differences between the UK and US. Get ready to master the follow-up dance!

Feb 3, 2025 • 11min
Office English: Meetings
Navigating workplace meetings can be daunting. Discover useful phrases to express your ideas confidently while mastering polite interruptions. Learn tips for introducing yourself and communicating effectively with new colleagues. Explore meeting etiquette to ensure respectful conversations, even with dominant speakers. Understand the critical role of well-structured agendas for productive discussions. Plus, uncover unsettling truths about the wellness industry that highlight the need for awareness and justice.