Working in English conversation questions

You are free to use this material in class.
For general advice on using conversation topics, see the article on conversation questions.
For Teflpedia's complete list of topics see Category:conversation questions.
Go to another, random topic

Meetings[edit | edit source]

Have you ever had to attend a meeting in English?
Did you contribute or just listen?
Was there simultaneous translation available? How effective was it?
How well did you understand the points which were being made? How well did others understand you?
If you take notes during a meeting, do you write in English or in your own language. Why?
Do you think the other non-native English speakers attending had a better level of English than yours? If so, did this inhibit you?
How do you feel about speaking in English with your coworkers who share your native language?
How important do you think non-verbal language (gestures, smiles, etc.) is in making yourself understood?
What suggestions would you make to other people who have to attend meetings in English?

Have you ever had to make a presentation in English?
How did you find the experience?
Do yo think it would be a good idea to practise the presentation with your English teacher beforehand, or would this make the actual presentation less spontaneous?
Do you write out everything you are going to say word for word, or do you just make general notes? What are the advantages and disadvantages of each method?
Was there a question and answer after the presentation? How did it go?
Was it a presentation to native english speakers or to non-native speakers? Which do you think would be easiest? Why?
What recommendations would you make to somebody who has to give a presentation in English?

How often do you have to write or read texts in English?
What kind of texts do you have to read or write? Emails? Reports? PowerPoint presentations? Tenders? (A tender is a formal offer).
Do you ever chat over the internet in English for work? What chat program do you use?