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Hello English learners! Welcome back to your favorite place to learn English for real life. In today's lesson, we're listening to a real-life office conversation during a coffee break. Two coworkers are talking about one of them being sent abroad by the company. We'll hear what skills and habits helped him get selected and the advice he gives his friend.

And of course, we'll learn seven amazing phrases that are super important. Later, we'll practice with vocabulary with examples, shadowing with real lines from the conversation, comprehension questions, and a strong reflection to help you grow. Ready to level up your business English? Then let's go!

Jason: Hey, Jason, I heard some buzz around the office. Are you really going to Tokyo next month on a business trip?

Carlos: Yeah, man. It's official. I just got the confirmation email yesterday. Flights, hotel, everything paid by the company.

Jason: That's incredible. I mean, I've always dreamed of that kind of opportunity. How did you even get chosen? I thought those trips were for upper management.

Carlos: Normally, yes. But the truth is, companies are starting to invest in employees who show initiative and strong cross-functional skills. I've been working closely with the marketing and logistics team lately, so I've become kind of a bridge between departments.

Jason: So, you're saying collaboration played a big role?

Carlos: Exactly. One thing I've learned is that if you want opportunities like this, you need to position yourself as indispensable. If they see you as someone who can represent the company well in a global setting, they'll choose you.

Jason: That makes sense. But apart from being a team player, what else matters?

Carlos: Honestly, your ability to communicate with clarity, especially in high-stakes situations. When I gave that presentation last quarter to the regional directors, I made sure every point was tight and tailored to their interests.

Jason: That was a torn point, right? I remember that. Everyone said you were on fire that day.

Carlos: Well, thank you. But it's also about soft skills. You need emotional intelligence, cultural awareness, and the ability to adapt on the fly. Business trips aren't vacations. You have to be productive, respectful, and sharp.

Jason: Totally. So, how should someone prepare if they want that kind of opportunity?

Carlos: First, build a strong professional presence. That means dressing the part, speaking confidently, and being consistent. Then start volunteering for cross-department projects. Show you are proactive.

Jason: And language skills?

Carlos: Absolutely. Being bilingual or at least conversational in other languages is a major plus. But even more important is knowing how to make connections. The company trusts people who can create meaningful relationships abroad.

Jason: Man, I wish I'd started building that kind of profile sooner.

Carlos: It's never too late. Start small. Offer help outside your job description. Read about other markets. When you become globally minded, people notice.

Jason: I love that. So, when are you flying out?

Carlos: Two weeks. I'm giving a presentation, attending two client meetings, and even visiting a tech expo on behalf of the firm.

Jason: Sounds intense.

Carlos: It is, but that's the thrill. Business trips like this push you to grow. You come back with more knowledge, confidence, and even new connections.

Jason: Okay. Last question. What's your number one tip?

Carlos: Simple. Don't wait for someone to give you the opportunity. Create value every day. When the moment comes, you'll already be the obvious choice.

Jason: Thanks, man. You just gave me a whole new perspective.

Carlos: Anytime. And who knows, maybe next time we'll be traveling together.

Alright, let's explore the seven advanced and essential phrases from the conversation. These are powerful expressions you can use in real life to sound more fluent and clear. We will see the meaning, two examples, and pronunciation.

1. Initiative

The meaning is the ability to take charge or begin something before others do.

Example 1: She showed initiative by solving the issue before the manager even noticed.

Example 2: Taking initiative at work can lead to promotions and recognition.

Now, repeat after me: Initiative.Initiative.

2. Position yourself as indispensable

The meaning is to make yourself so useful and valuable that the team can't function well without you.

Example 1: He worked hard to position himself as indispensable to the client team.

Example 2: If you want to travel for work, you need to position yourself as indispensable.

Now, repeat after me: Position yourself as indispensable.Position yourself as indispensable.

3. Communicate with clarity

The meaning is to express ideas clearly and effectively.

Example 1: Great leaders know how to communicate with clarity in stressful moments.

Example 2: If you want to impress during meetings, learn to communicate with clarity.

Now, repeat after me: Communicate with clarity.Communicate with clarity.