It seems to me that... (stance-taking; polite way to express perspective)
Example: It seems to me that successful companies value people as much as profit.
Conversation Topic
Companies
Focused language practice with structured prompts, advanced vocabulary, and guided questions.
Advanced Structures
If there's one thing I've learned about business, it's that... (reflective and natural, draws from personal or general experience)
Example: If there's one thing I've learned about business, it's that trust and transparency are more important than size.
Phrasal Verbs
Take over (a company / position)
Definition: To gain control of something, especially a business or organization.
Sample sentence: A larger corporation took over the small startup last year.
Conversation starter: Would you feel comfortable if your company was taken over by another one? Why or why not?
Conversation starter: Do you think big companies taking over small ones is good or bad for the economy?
Set up (a company / project)
Definition: To start or establish something new, such as a business or organization.
Sample sentence: They set up their own company after years of working in corporate jobs.
Conversation starter: If you could set up a company today, what kind of product or service would you offer?
Conversation starter: What do you think is the hardest part of setting up a new business?
Advanced Words
Corporate Culture (noun)
Definition: The shared values, beliefs, and behaviors that shape how people work within a company.
Sample sentence: A company's corporate culture can determine whether employees stay motivated or burn out quickly.
Conversation starter: How would you describe the corporate culture in your country - formal, flexible, or competitive?
Conversation starter: What kind of corporate culture helps people feel inspired and loyal?
Transparency (noun)
Definition: The quality of being open, honest, and clear about company policies and decisions.
Sample sentence: Transparency builds trust between a company and its employees or customers.
Conversation starter: Why do you think transparency is so important for companies today? Can you think of a company that's known for being transparent - or one that clearly isn't?
Conversation Questions
- What's a company you really respect, and why? Suggested start: I'd say I respect this company because...
- Do you prefer working for a small company or a big corporation? Suggested start: I tend to prefer...
- What do you think makes a company successful? Suggested start: I believe success comes from...
- Have you ever bought something because you liked the company's image or values? Suggested start: Yes, I have. I liked how the company...
- How do companies influence society or the environment? Suggested start: They influence it by...
- Do you think companies should focus more on profit or people? Suggested start: Personally, I think they should focus more on...
- What kind of company culture would you like to work in? Suggested start: I'd like to work in a company where...
- How important is brand reputation for a company's success? Suggested start: I think it's very important because...
- Have you ever had a positive or negative experience with a company's service? Suggested start: Yes, I have. It happened when...
- If you could start your own company, what would it do? Suggested start: If I could start one, it would specialize in...