Lesley

How To Master Small Talk In Business Networking Events

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Making Small Talk in English at Networking Events (Without Feeling Awkward) I If you’ve ever stood at a professional networking event wondering what to say, you’re not alone. For many non-native English speakers, small talk can feel uncomfortable — too informal, too vague, or simply unfamiliar. But here’s the truth: in English-speaking business cultures, small … Read more

Best English Grammar Books For Busy Professionals (2025 Edition)

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Learning English grammar as a non-native speaker can feel overwhelming. With countless rules, exceptions, and nuances, where do you even begin? The good news is that the right grammar book can transform your learning journey from frustrating to enjoyable. After years of teaching and learning experiences, these five grammar books stand out as the most … Read more

Self-Directed Online English Language Learning

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Master English on Your Own: A Complete Guide for Independent Learners Are you tired of traditional English classes that move too slowly or too fast? Do you want to learn English at your own pace, focusing on what matters most to you? Self-directed learning might be exactly what you need. Self-directed learning means you take … Read more

Why Business Language Apps Aren’t Enough (and What To Do Instead)

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Business language apps often promise quick progress, handy vocabulary drills, and an easy way to start speaking a new language. When I began using these tools to brush up on my work-related French, I made one big mistake: I skipped real conversation practice. Instead, I focused on flashcards, fill-in-the-blank exercises, and memorizing business phrases. At … Read more

From General English To Business English — What’s The Difference?

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This is Part 1 of the series from A Business English Guide For Non-Native Professionals (2025) Do you speak English well but feel lost in business meetings? It is difficult! Many people can chat with friends easily but struggle in professional situations. The good news is that General English and Business English use the same … Read more

Build Your Business English Toolkit

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Build Your Business English Toolkit: Communicate with Confidence at Work Introduction In the modern workplace, English is often the global language of communication. If you work in an international environment—or with English-speaking colleagues or clients—your ability to communicate clearly and confidently in English plays a big role in your success. Whether you’re writing emails, leading … Read more

English The Corporate Language

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Corporate lingo — often called “business speak” or “jargon” — is everywhere in the professional world. You hear it in emails, meetings, and presentations. For non-native English speakers, these words can be confusing at first. It’s like learning a new language inside the English language. When you hear words like synergy, leverage, or touch base, … Read more

Small Talk In English: Building Trust

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Mastering Small Talk in English: Your Secret to Building Real Connections Small talk may seem like just casual chatter, but it’s a powerful skill that can open doors, build strong relationships, and even advance your career — especially in English-speaking environments. If you want to feel more confident starting conversations, connecting with others, and speaking … Read more