WEEK 12 : Section1~3
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1.) Meeting Roleplay: Controlling the Discussion in Meetings + Evaluating Options (Student 5 Leading)
Background:
Our cosmetics company has faced criticism for its environmental impact and lack of social responsibility. Critics argue that our production processes generate significant waste and pollution, and we do not adequately support community initiatives. We aim to improve our public image by enhancing our social responsibility. We have identified the following plans:
Develop a Sustainable Sourcing Policy: Commit to sourcing raw materials from sustainable suppliers to minimize environmental impact.
Launch a Recycling Program: Start a program encouraging customers to return empty cosmetic containers for recycling, offering discounts or rewards.
Fund Local Community Programs: Allocate a portion of profits to support local initiatives focused on education and skills training for young people in the areas where we operate.
Create an Employee Volunteer Program: Develop a program that allows employees to take paid time off to volunteer for community service projects.
Goal:
We need to select two of these plans to implement immediately to enhance our corporate image.
BUSINESS ACTIVITY:
CONTROLLING THE DISCUSSION IN MEETINGS FUNCTIONS AND KEY PHRASES
Introducing the Subject
We’re here today to address (topic of the meeting).
We need to go over (topic of the meeting) in detail.
Keeping to the Right Subject
Let’s stay focused on the main topic.
Can we revisit that point later on?
Changing the Subject
I believe we’ve fully explored this point.
Shall we move on to the next agenda item?
Concluding and Summarizing
I believe that covers everything.
I’ll follow up with a summary via email.
Thank you all for attending. Goodbye.
BUSINESS ACTIVITY: EVALUATING OPTIONS
Saying Why an Idea is Good
A key advantage of this is that...
Another major benefit is that...
I’m particularly drawn to the idea that...
(Idea) is appealing because...
(Idea) is a really promising option because...
(Idea) is an excellent solution because...
Describing Weak Points
One potential drawback is that...
Another concern is that...
One issue that stands out is...
Another point to consider is...
I’m not entirely convinced that...
I think (idea) might be too...
Stating a Preference
I’d prefer to (action) because...
I believe (idea) is the better choice because...
I’d lean towards (idea) because...
I’d opt for (idea) because...
(Idea A) is a stronger choice compared to (Idea B).
(Idea A) is more fitting than (Idea B).
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2.) Business Discussion: Business Travel
Vocabulary List:
Itinerary – A detailed plan or schedule for a trip, including meetings, travel times, and activities.
Travel Budget – A financial plan that outlines the costs of transportation, accommodation, meals, and other travel-related expenses.
Conference Call – A phone or online meeting where participants from different locations can communicate and discuss business matters.
Expense Report – A document submitted to record the money spent during business travel, often for reimbursement.
Travel Reimbursement – The process by which a company repays an employee for money spent on business travel.
Jet Lag – The feeling of tiredness and confusion after a long flight across different time zones.
Liaison – A person who acts as a point of contact between two organizations or groups to ensure smooth communication.
Visa – An official document or stamp in a passport that allows a person to enter, leave, or stay in a country for a specific purpose, often required for international business travel.
Perks – Additional benefits offered to employees, such as frequent flyer miles or airport lounge access, as part of their business travel experience.
Client Meeting – A formal or informal business meeting with current or potential clients to discuss opportunities, services, or projects.
Business Travel Article:
Business travel is often essential for meeting clients, attending conferences, and exploring new market opportunities. Proper planning, including a clear itinerary and travel budget, is crucial for a successful trip. While jet lag can be a challenge, many companies offer perks like access to airport lounges or travel reimbursement to make the experience smoother. Conference calls can handle many tasks remotely, but in-person client meetings are often more effective for building relationships. Business travelers also need to manage visas and prepare expense reports to ensure they are reimbursed for travel-related costs.
Discussion Questions:
How do you prepare for business travel, and what do you think is essential in your itinerary?
Have you ever submitted an expense report after a business trip? What challenges did you face?
How do you cope with jet lag, especially on long business trips?
Do you think in-person meetings are more effective than virtual meetings? Why or why not?
What do you think are the best perks or benefits for frequent business travelers?
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3.) Casual Discussion: Any Topic from Group
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