

Learning English For Work
BBC News
Short podcasts to improve your English at work. Find more at bbclearningenglish.comFollow us at
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Episodes
Mentioned books

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.

Jan 27, 2025 • 13min
Office English: Emails
Struggling with email etiquette at work? Explore the delicate balance between formality and friendliness in your messages. Learn how to choose the right greetings, like 'Dear' or 'Hi,' and discover effective sign-offs that encourage replies. The podcast also dives into mastering tone, revealing when it's appropriate to mix casual phrases or even emojis. Get tips on enhancing professionalism and making your email communication more impactful in different professional contexts.

Dec 16, 2024 • 10min
Should we use jargon?
Jargon can be both a blessing and a curse in the workplace. Explore the complexities of terms like 'stakeholder' and the frustration they create. Experts reveal how phrases like 'deep dive' and 'synergy' affect workplace culture and stress levels. Delve into the implications of corporate language on communication and societal views. The podcast also connects language learning to personal growth and current events, while uncovering dark secrets within the wellness industry. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion!

Dec 9, 2024 • 9min
Business Jargon: Jargon about technology
Dive into the evolving language of technology as remote work reshapes communication. Discover essential jargon phrases like 'take this offline' and 'ping' that dominate virtual meetings. Explore the trend of hot desking and the rise of digital nomadism, showcasing the flexibility technology brings. The discussion also tackles the annoyance of overused phrases like 'reach out,' emphasizing the need for clear communication in today's business world.

8 snips
Dec 2, 2024 • 6min
Business Jargon: Jargon about success
Discover the intriguing world of business jargon as the hosts explore phrases that signify success and goal-setting. They discuss terms like 'low-hanging fruit' and 'move the needle,' revealing how language shapes workplace perceptions. Unpack the irritation these phrases can cause, while understanding their intended meanings. Get insights on recognizing opportunities and navigating the complexities of business communication to achieve your professional goals.

Nov 25, 2024 • 6min
Business Jargon: Jargon about delays
Pippa and Phil dive into the spicy world of business jargon, focusing on expressions about delays. They explore phrases like 'putting something on the back burner' and 'parking something,' revealing the complexities of prioritizing tasks. The duo discusses how these terms illustrate the nuances of workplace communication and procrastination. Their engaging chat also teases future insights on vocabulary related to success, inviting listeners to reflect on their own use of jargon.