Pratique du Shadowing: How to talk about Salary Expectations in english| ✅ English podcast - Apprendre l'anglais à l'oral avec YouTube

The English you need to work, communicate, and grow.

⏸ En pause

Vitesse :

495 phrases

Si les phrases sont trop courtes ou trop longues, cliquez sur Edit pour les ajuster.

The English you need to work, communicate, and grow.

Hello and welcome to 20 Minutes English for Work podcast.

My name is Liz.

And my name is Tom.

This podcast is for you who understand English,

but sometimes freeze when you need to use it at work.

Maybe you know what you want to say,

but when it's time to talk to your boss, the words disappear.

Maybe you worry about sounding unprofessional.

Maybe you're afraid of making mistakes.

Or maybe you think your English is not good enough.

Let us tell you something important.

You don't need perfect English to communicate well at work.

What you need is simple, clear, real English.

The kind people actually use in meetings,

updates, and conversations with their managers.

And that's exactly what we practice here in just 20 minutes.

In today's episode, we're talking about something very real and very common,

giving updates to your boss.

How do you start the conversation politely?

How do you explain progress?

How do you talk about problems without sounding negative?

And how do you ask for decisions or recommendations with confidence?

First, you'll listen to a realistic dialogue,

just like a conversation you could have at work tomorrow.

Don't worry if you don't understand everything the first time.

That's normal.

After the dialogue, we'll explain the phrases step by step,

talk about vocabulary, and share cultural tips from real work environments.

So take a deep breath.

Relax.

You're not alone in this journey.

Subscribe to the channel and practice English for real work situations with us every day.

And tell us in the comments where you're listening from.

We love reading your messages.

Now, let's begin.

Hi, Rachel.

Do you have a few minutes?

I'd like to give you an update on the project if now is a good time.

Hi, Mark.

Yes, this is a good time.

Thanks for asking first.

Please go ahead.

Great, thank you.

I'll try to be clear and keep it organized.

I want to talk about our progress,

a small challenge we're facing,

and one decision we need to make.

That sounds perfect.

I appreciate structured updates.

Let's start with the progress.

Sure.

So, overall, the project is moving forward as planned.

The team completed the initial research phase,

and we're now transitioning into the execution stage.

That's good to hear.

When was the research finalized?

It was finalized yesterday afternoon.

I reviewed the full report this morning before this meeting.

And how does it look?

Are you comfortable with the results?

Yes, I am.

The findings are consistent with what we expected.

There are a few minor adjustments needed,

mostly formatting and clarification, but nothing that affects the main conclusions.

That sounds manageable.

Do you need support from anyone else to finalize those adjustments?

No, I think the team can handle it internally.

I already shared my comments,

and they're working on it now.

Perfect.

And in terms of timing,

are we still aligned with the original schedule?

For the most part, yes.

We're still on track, but next week will be critical.

Some tasks are very close together,

so timing will be important.

I see.

Which tasks are you most concerned about?

The design review is the main one.

We're waiting for feedback from the client,

and without that feedback, the team can't move forward.

Have we already reached out to the client about this?

Yes.

I sent a follow-up email yesterday afternoon.

I kept the tone polite and clear,

asking if they could share their feedback by tomorrow.

Good.

And if they don't respond?

If I don't hear back by tomorrow morning,

I plan to call them directly.

I think a quick call might speed things up.

That's a good plan.

Sometimes a call is more effective than emails.

I agree.

Emails are useful, but they can get lost or delayed.

Exactly.

Please keep me posted once you hear back from them. Of course.

I'll get back to you as soon as I have any update,

100

even if it's just to say we're still waiting.

101

I appreciate that.

102

Regular updates help a lot.

103

That's my goal.

104

I want to make sure there are no surprises later.

105

And you're doing a great job with that.

106

Keep going.

107

Thank you.

108

That means a lot.

109

Now, let's talk about the budget.

110

Any issues so far?

111

So far, everything is under control.

112

We're within the approved budget and expenses are aligned with our forecast.

113

That's excellent.

114

Do you expect any changes in the near future?

115

Possibly.

116

If the client requests additional changes after the design review,

117

we may need extra hours from the team.

118

I understand.

119

That's often the case.

120

Do you have an estimate of how much that could impact the budget?

121

At this stage, it's hard to say.

122

It depends on the scope of the changes.

123

Small changes won't be a problem,

124

but major revisions could require adjustments.

125

Okay.

126

In that case, let's monitor it closely and reassess if needed.

127

That sounds good.

128

I'll flag it early if I see any risk.

129

Thank you.

130

Proactive communication really makes a difference.

131

I agree.

132

It builds trust and helps with decision-making.

133

Speaking of decisions, you mentioned earlier that there's something you need my input on.

134

Yes, exactly.

135

We need to decide between two options for the final delivery approach.

136

All right.

137

Can you explain the options again, slowly?

138

Sure.

139

Option A is faster and more cost-effective.

140

It allows us to deliver on time with minimal effort,

141

but it offers limited customization.

142

Okay.

143

And option B?

144

Option B takes more time and requires more resources,

145

but it gives the client more flexibility and a more tailored solution.

146

I see.

147

And based on your interactions,

148

what do you think the client values more?

149

Based on previous conversations, they usually value flexibility and customization.

150

However, they've also mentioned concerns about deadlines.

151

That's a tough balance.

152

What's your professional recommendation?

153

My recommendation would be option B,

154

but with very clear communication about the timeline and expectations.

155

That makes sense.

156

Transparency is key in these situations.

157

Exactly.

158

If we explain the benefits clearly,

159

the client can make an informed choice.

160

I agree.

161

Let's move forward with option B,

162

but make sure the message is simple and direct.

163

No problem.

164

I can draft a short explanation and share it with you before sending it to the client.

165

I'd appreciate that.

166

I'd like to review it first. Of course.

167

I'll send you a draft by the end of the day.

168

Perfect.

169

Is there anything else you'd like to discuss?

170

Just one more thing.

171

The team has been working extra hours this week,

172

so I'm monitoring their workload to avoid burnout.

173

I'm glad you mentioned that.

174

How are they handling it?

175

They're managing well for now,

176

but I think we should be careful next week especially if deadlines become tighter.

177

I agree.

178

Let's prioritize tasks and avoid unnecessary pressure.

179

That's a good idea.

180

I'll review priorities with the team tomorrow.

181

Excellent.

182

Thanks for being attentive to both results and people.

183

Thank you.

184

I believe both are important.

185

Absolutely.

186

Thanks for the clear update, Mark.

187

I really appreciate it.

188

Thank you for your time, Rachel.

189

I appreciate your guidance.

190

Anytime.

191

And remember, you're doing great work.

192

Thanks.

193

That motivates me a lot.

194

I'll keep you updated.

195

Sounds good.

196

Talk to you soon.

197

Talk to you soon.

198

Hello, everyone.

199

Welcome back to 20 Minutes English for Work podcast.

200

Today, Tom and I are going to help you feel more confident

201

when you need to give updates to your boss in English.

202

That's right.

203

We know this is a real challenge for many professionals.

204

You want to sound clear, polite, confident, and professional.

205

But sometimes the words don't come easily.

206

So first, we'll review the main phrases from the dialogue.

207

Then we'll explain important vocabulary,

208

and after that, we'll talk about cultural tips from real work environments.

209

Don't worry if you didn't understand everything in the dialogue the first time.

210

That's normal.

211

You're learning, and you're doing great.

212

Let's take this step by step.

213

Phrase 1.

214

Do you have a few minutes?

215

I'd like to give you an update.

216

This is a very common and very polite way to start a conversation with your boss.

217

You are asking for permission and showing respect for their time.

218

When you say, do you have a few minutes,

219

you are not demanding attention.

220

You are giving your boss the option to say yes or suggest another time.

221

Do you have a few minutes?

222

I'd like to talk about the project status.

223

This phrase works well in meetings,

224

in the office, or even on a call.

225

Another simple way to say this is,

226

is now a good time to give you a quick update?

227

Both versions are polite and professional.

228

You should avoid starting with updates without checking first, especially with managers.

229

Phrase 2.

230

I'll try to be clear and keep it organized.

231

This phrase shows professional awareness.

232

You are telling your boss that you respect their time and that your update will be structured.

233

It also helps you feel calmer because you are setting expectations.

234

I'll keep it brief and clear.

235

You can also say, I'll go straight to the main points.

236

This is very useful when your boss is busy or when the meeting is short.

237

Phrase 3.

238

Overall, the project is moving forward as planned.

239

This is a classic sentence for updates.

240

The word overall helps you give a general picture before details.

241

It's a great way to start positive.

242

Overall, everything is progressing well.

243

You could also say, in general, we're on track.

244

Simple, clear, and professional.

245

Phrase 4.

246

We're still on track, but next week will be critical.

247

This is a perfect example of balanced communication.

248

You share good news and a potential challenge at the same time.

249

but helps you prepare your boss for a possible issue.

250

Another way to say this is,

251

we're on schedule, but we'll need to be careful next week.

252

This shows responsibility, not panic.

253

Phrase 5.

254

We're waiting for feedback from the client.

255

This sentence is very common in professional environments.

256

It clearly explains why something is delayed without blaming anyone.

257

You could also say, we can't move forward until we receive client feedback.

258

This is direct but still professional.

259

I'll get back to you as soon as I have an update.

260

This is an excellent phrase to show reliability.

261

You are not guessing.

262

You are promising communication.

263

Another option is, I'll keep you posted.

264

Very common in emails and meetings.

265

Phrase 7.

266

What do you recommend?

267

This phrase is powerful because it shows respect for experience.

268

You're asking for guidance, not giving up responsibility.

269

You can also say, what's your suggestion here?

270

Simple and effective.

271

Phrase 8.

272

I'd recommend option B, with clear communication about the timeline.

273

This sentence shows confidence and professionalism.

274

You are giving your opinion with reasoning, not just an opinion.

275

Another version could be, my suggestion would be option B,

276

as long as we explain the timeline clearly.

277

Phrase 9, I'll draft a message and share it with you before sending.

278

This phrase shows teamwork and respect for hierarchy.

279

You are involving your boss in the decision.

280

You could also say, I'll prepare a draft and send it to you for review.

281

Phrase 10.

282

Please keep me posted.

283

This is a polite way to say,

284

tell me when something changes.

285

Very common alternatives include, let me know if anything changes.

286

Now let's move on to the main vocabulary from today's episode.

287

These are words you will hear all the time in meetings,

288

emails, and conversations with your boss.

289

And remember, you don't need to memorize everything at once.

290

Listen, repeat, and try to use one or two words in your next work conversation.

291

You're doing great.

292

Vocabulary 1.

293

Update.

294

Let's start with the word update.

295

An update means new information about progress,

296

changes, or the current situation of a task or project.

297

In the workplace, giving updates is essential.

298

Managers don't want surprises.

299

They want to know what's happening,

300

even if nothing has changed.

301

For example, you can say,

302

I'd like to give you an update on the project.

303

Or, in a shorter way, here's a quick update.

304

Giving updates regularly builds trust and shows professionalism.

305

An antonym for update could be delay when progress is slower than expected.

306

Vocabulary 2. On track.

307

The expression on track means something is going according to plan.

308

This is a very positive expression to use with your boss.

309

For example, we're on track to meet the deadline or everything is still on track.

310

If something is not going well,

311

the opposite would be behind schedule.

312

Knowing both helps you explain good and bad situations clearly.

313

Vocabulary 3.

314

The word feedback refers to opinions,

315

comments, or suggestions about your work.

316

Feedback can come from your boss,

317

your team, or your client.

318

Example, we're waiting for feedback from the client.

319

Or, I'd appreciate your feedback on this draft.

320

Feedback helps improve quality and alignment.

321

Vocabulary 4.

322

Deadline.

323

A deadline is the final date or time when something must be completed.

324

Deadlines are very important in professional environments.

325

Example, the deadline for this task is Friday.

326

If you think a deadline might be at risk,

327

it's better to communicate early.

328

Vocabulary 5.

329

Prioritize.

330

To prioritize means to decide what is more important and what should be done first.

331

This word is very useful when you have many tasks.

332

Example.

333

We need to prioritize urgent tasks.

334

Good prioritization shows organization and maturity at work.

335

Vocabulary 6.

336

Manageable.

337

The word manageable means something is possible to handle without too much stress.

338

This is often used when talking about workload.

339

Example, the workload is manageable right now.

340

The opposite of manageable is overwhelming,

341

when something feels too heavy or stressful.

342

Now let's really dive into cultural tips,

343

because this is where many professionals feel insecure,

344

even when their English is good.

345

That's true.

346

In the workplace, communication is not just about words.

347

It's about expectations, tone, and behavior.

348

One important cultural point is that managers usually expect regular updates,

349

not only when there is a problem problem.

350

Yes.

351

Many people think, if everything is fine,

352

I don't need to say anything.

353

But in many companies, silence can create worry.

354

Saying something simple like, everything is on track,

355

already helps your boss feel calm and informed.

356

Another cultural aspect is structure.

357

Updates should not be random.

358

A good update usually has three parts.

359

What's done, what's in progress, and what needs attention.

360

When you organize your update this way,

361

you sound professional, even with simple English.

362

Tone is also extremely important.

363

Even when there's bad news,

364

your tone should stay calm and respectful.

365

Instead of saying, we have a big problem,

366

it's better to say, we're facing a challenge and we're working on a solution.

367

That shows responsibility instead of panic.

368

Deadlines are another strong cultural element.

369

Missing a deadline without communication can damage trust.

370

Many managers prefer hearing bad early rather than hearing excuses later.

371

Exactly.

372

Saying, the deadline may be at risk,

373

is much better than staying silent.

374

Another cultural habit is asking for input.

375

Some learners think asking questions makes them look weak.

376

But in reality, asking, what do you recommend, shows collaboration and respect.

377

It also shows that you value experience and teamwork.

378

Let's also talk about meetings.

379

In many cultures, meetings are about alignment, not perfection.

380

You don't need perfect English.

381

You need clarity.

382

Short, clear sentences are better than long, confusing ones.

383

And finally, updates are about trust.

384

When your boss knows you communicate clearly, they trust you more.

385

And trust often leads to more responsibility and growth.

386

So remember, simple English, clear structure, calm tone.

387

You can do this.

388

Keep going, study English every day, and learn something new.

389

Now that you've listened to the dialogue,

390

reviewed the main phrases, learned the vocabulary,

391

and understood the cultural context,

392

it's time for something very practical.

393

Yes, this part is all about using English in real work situations,

394

especially when you feel nervous,

395

under pressure, or unsure about your words.

396

We'll share complete model sentences that you can use in meetings, calls, or emails.

397

And for each situation, we'll also give you shorter versions for moments when your mind goes blank.

398

As you listen, imagine yourself at work.

399

Picture your boss, your desk, your meeting.

400

This makes learning much easier.

401

Situation 1.

402

Starting an update politely.

403

Let's start with the beginning.

404

Many professionals struggle with how to start an update.

405

A good start shows respect and professionalism.

406

Here's a complete sentence you can use.

407

Do you have a few minutes?

408

I'd like to give you an update on my current tasks.

409

This sentence is polite, clear, and very natural.

410

If you feel nervous, you can use a short version.

411

Do you have a minute?

412

Or even quick update?

413

Short sentences are not rude.

414

They're often very normal at work.

415

Situation two.

416

Explaining general progress.

417

After starting, you usually give a general overview.

418

A very useful full sentence is,

419

Overall, everything is moving forward as planned.

420

This reassures your boss immediately.

421

Another complete option is, In general,

422

the project is progressing well.

423

And if you're nervous, you can say, Everything is on track.

424

Simple, clear, professional.

425

Situation 3.

426

Talking about tasks in progress.

427

Now let's talk about tasks that are not finished yet.

428

This is very common in updates.

429

Full sentence example.

430

I'm currently working on the report,

431

and I expect to finish it by tomorrow.

432

Another option.

433

This task is still in progress,

434

but there are no major issues.

435

Short versions.

436

I'm working on it.

437

Or, it's in progress.

438

Situation 4.

439

Mentioning a small problem or risk.

440

This part scares many learners.

441

Yes, but remember, mentioning a problem early is professional.

442

Full sentence.

443

There's a small challenge we need to consider regarding the deadline.

444

Or, there's a potential risk I'd like to flag early.

445

Short versions for stressful moments.

446

There's a small issue.

447

Or quick concern.

448

Your tone matters more than perfect grammar here.

449

Situation six.

450

Explaining a delay clearly.

451

Sometimes things don't go as planned, and that's okay.

452

What matters is how you explain it.

453

Full sentence.

454

We're slightly behind schedule because we're waiting for client feedback.

455

Another option.

456

The delay is related to external feedback, not internal issues.

457

Short versions.

458

We're waiting for feedback.

459

Or simply, client feedback pending.

460

Your tone matters more than perfect grammar here.

461

Situation 7.

462

Asking for guidance or a decision.

463

Asking for input shows maturity.

464

Full sentence.

465

I'd like to get your input before moving forward.

466

Another option.

467

What do you recommend in this situation?

468

Short versions.

469

Any suggestions?

470

Or, what do you think?

471

We've reached the end of today's episode,

472

and you've just practiced something very important for your professional life.

473

Today, you learned how to give updates to your boss using simple,

474

clear, and professional English.

475

You practiced how to start an update politely,

476

how to explain progress, how to talk about challenges,

477

and how to ask for decisions.

478

You also learned useful vocabulary,

479

common expressions, and cultural habits from real work environments.

480

Most importantly, you saw that you don't need perfect English to communicate well.

481

What you need is clarity,

482

structure, and confidence, and those things come with practice.

483

Think about your next meeting,

484

your next email, or your next conversation with your manager.

485

Which sentence from today can you use tomorrow?

486

Tell us in the comments.

487

We'd love to know.

488

If this episode helped you,

489

please subscribe to the channel and share it with a colleague or a friend.

490

Study English every day, even if it's just a little.

491

Keep going.

492

You're doing great.

493

Thank you for spending these 20 minutes with us.

494

See you in the next episode.

495

Bye for now.

TRENDING

Populaires

Qu'est-ce que la technique du Shadowing ?

Le Shadowing est une technique d'apprentissage des langues fondée sur la science, développée à l'origine pour la formation des interprètes professionnels. Le principe est simple mais puissant : vous écoutez de l'anglais natif et le répétez immédiatement à voix haute — comme une ombre suivant le locuteur avec un décalage de 1 à 2 secondes. Les recherches montrent une amélioration significative de la précision de la prononciation, de l'intonation, du rythme, des liaisons, de la compréhension orale et de la fluidité.

☕ Offrez-nous un café

ShadowingEnglish reste 100% gratuit grâce à votre soutien. Les coûts des serveurs et de l'IA sont élevés — votre café nous aide à continuer ! 🙏

Faire un don via PayPal

ShadowingEnglish.com – Pratique du Shadowing en Anglais

Parlez anglais couramment grâce au Shadowing. Écoutez des vidéos YouTube de locuteurs natifs, répétez phrase par phrase et développez une vraie prononciation et fluidité — utilisé par les candidats IELTS du monde entier.

Pratique du Shadowing: How to talk about Salary Expectations in english| ✅ English podcast - Apprendre l'anglais à l'oral avec YouTube

Populaires

About This Lesson

Key Vocabulary & Phrases

Practice Tips

Qu'est-ce que la technique du Shadowing ?

Pratique du Shadowing: How to talk about Salary Expectations in english| ✅ English podcast - Apprendre l'anglais à l'oral avec YouTube

Télécharger l'application

About This Lesson

Key Vocabulary & Phrases

Practice Tips

Qu'est-ce que la technique du Shadowing ?