"Effective Business English: Elevating your Professional Presence"
Shaun Business blogs

ESG Investing: Aligning Profit with Purpose

An article to help learn vocabulary in context

Investing has long been seen as a way to generate financial returns for shareholders, but increasingly investors are looking beyond traditional financial metrics to consider companies’ environmental, social, and governance practices. Environmental concerns such as climate change, social issues such as diversity and inclusion, and governance issues such as executive compensation and board diversity are all factors that are increasingly being taken into account when making investment decisions.

Environmental factors are one of the most important aspects of ESG investing. Climate change is a major concern for investors, as it poses significant financial risks to companies and their investors. Companies that are heavily dependent on fossil fuels, for example, may be vulnerable to the transition to a low-carbon economy, as governments and consumers increasingly demand cleaner energy sources. As a result, investors are looking for companies that are actively reducing their carbon footprint and investing in renewable energy sources.

Social issues are also important for investors. Companies that have a diverse and inclusive workforce are more likely to be innovative and adaptable, which can translate into better financial performance. In addition, companies that treat their employees fairly and ethically are less likely to face reputational risks and legal liabilities. Investors are therefore looking for companies that have strong diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies, as well as strong human rights practices.

environmental friendly image of a forest free of pollution
image of a forest

Finally, governance is another key factor in ESG investing. Investors are looking for companies that are transparent and accountable in their decision-making processes, and that have independent and diverse boards of directors. Good governance practices can help companies avoid financial and reputational risks, and can also contribute to long-term financial performance.

Investors can incorporate ESG factors into their investment decisions in a variety of ways. One approach is to invest in funds that specialize in ESG investing, such as sustainable or socially responsible funds. These funds may use a variety of strategies to screen companies based on ESG criteria, such as excluding companies that produce tobacco or weapons, or investing in companies that have a positive social or environmental impact.

Another approach is to use ESG data and ratings to inform investment decisions. There are a number of firms that provide ESG ratings and data on companies, which can help investors identify companies that have strong ESG practices. These ratings can also be used to monitor companies’ performance over time and to identify potential risks.

ESG investing is not just about doing good; it’s also about generating financial returns. Studies have shown that companies with strong ESG practices are more likely to outperform their peers over the long term. By taking into account environmental, social, and governance factors, investors can identify companies that are well-positioned to navigate the challenges of the future and to generate sustainable financial returns.

In conclusion, ESG investing is an important trend that is reshaping the investment landscape. By considering environmental, social, and governance factors alongside traditional financial metrics, investors can identify companies that are well-positioned to generate sustainable financial returns and to make a positive impact on society and the environment. As investors increasingly demand more from the companies they invest in, ESG investing is likely to become even more important in the years ahead.

Download a glossary below

esg-vocabularyDownload

Practise the vocabulary here

"Empower your Communication Skills with Business English"
Shaun Business blogs, English Learning

How can I help my career by improving my English skills?

Enrolling in a coaching program for spoken English can offer several benefits to individuals. These programs can be tailored to suit your specific needs and goals, and can help you in many ways, which we will look at here.

Improving Pronunciation

One common reason why people choose to enroll in coaching programs is to improve their pronunciation of English words and sounds. With the help of a coach, you can learn the nuances of the language and get feedback on your pronunciation.

Improving pronunciation is a crucial aspect of learning any language, and this is especially true for English. English is a language with many unique sounds and nuances, which can be difficult for non-native speakers to master. Even small differences in pronunciation can affect how well you are understood and can impact your confidence when speaking.

Enrolling in a spoken English coaching program is an excellent way to improve your pronunciation skills. A good coach can help you identify the areas where you are struggling and provide you with targeted instruction on how to improve. They can also give you feedback on your pronunciation and guide you on how to produce the correct sounds.

Improving your pronunciation skills can have a significant impact on your ability to communicate effectively in English. It can help you to be more easily understood by native speakers and make you feel more confident when speaking. Additionally, improving your pronunciation skills can also help you expand your vocabulary and improve your overall comprehension of the language.

Whether you are a beginner or an advanced learner, improving your pronunciation skills should be a top priority. With the help of a spoken English coaching program, you can achieve significant progress in a short amount of time and gain the confidence you need to communicate effectively in any situation.

Expanding Vocabulary

A coaching program can also help you learn new words and phrases, and teach you how to use them effectively in conversations. This can help you express yourself more clearly and confidently.

Expanding your vocabulary is a crucial part of becoming fluent in any language, and this is especially true for English, which has an extensive vocabulary. When you enroll in a coaching program, you’ll have the opportunity to learn new words and phrases that you may not have encountered in your everyday life. A good coach can help you understand the meaning of these words and how to use them correctly in conversations.

By expanding your vocabulary, you’ll be able to communicate your thoughts and ideas more clearly and effectively, which is essential for both personal and professional situations. In addition, having a wider vocabulary can help you understand English language media such as books, movies, and news articles, which can further improve your language skills.

A coaching program can also teach you how to use idiomatic expressions and phrasal verbs, which are common in everyday English conversations. Learning these expressions and verbs can help you sound more natural and fluent in your speech, which can lead to better communication and stronger connections with native English speakers.

Overall, expanding your vocabulary through a coaching program can help you become a more effective communicator and give you the confidence to express yourself more effectively in any situation.

Building Confidence

Learning a new language can be challenging, especially when it comes to speaking it fluently. Many people feel shy or nervous about speaking a foreign language, and this can hinder their ability to communicate effectively. A coaching program can help you overcome these obstacles and build your confidence in speaking English.

A good coach will provide a safe and supportive environment for you to practice your speaking skills. They can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, and provide constructive feedback to help you improve. Regular practice sessions with your coach can also help you become more comfortable with speaking English in different contexts, such as in social settings or in the workplace.

As your confidence grows, you may find that you are more willing to engage in conversations in English and take more risks with your speaking. This can lead to a greater sense of satisfaction and fulfillment as you become more proficient in the language. With the help of a coaching program, you can build the confidence you need to communicate effectively in English and achieve your language goals.

Preparing for Exams

Preparing for exams such as TOEFL or IELTS can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, especially if you’re not confident in your spoken English skills. This is where a coaching program can come in handy. With a targeted approach, a coach can help you prepare for these exams by identifying your strengths and weaknesses and tailoring the instruction and practice to your specific needs.

A good coaching program will cover all aspects of the exams, from the format and structure to the types of questions you can expect. The program will also provide you with ample opportunities to practice your skills, including mock exams and feedback on your performance.

In addition, a coach can help you develop strategies to manage your time effectively during the exam and deal with stress and anxiety. By preparing thoroughly for these exams with the help of a coach, you can feel confident and ready to perform your best on test day.

Improving Professional Opportunities

In today’s globalized world, speaking fluent English is becoming increasingly important in many professional fields. Whether you’re in business, education, or healthcare, good communication skills are essential for success. By enrolling in a coaching program for spoken English, you can improve your ability to communicate effectively with clients, colleagues, and patients.

Not only can improved English skills help you perform better in your current job, but they can also open up new career opportunities. Many companies and organizations require employees to have strong English language skills, and being able to communicate effectively in English can give you a competitive edge in the job market.

Moreover, speaking fluent English can also help you build relationships with people from different countries and cultures. This can be especially important if you work in a multinational company or have clients from around the world.

A coaching program can provide you with the skills you need to succeed in your professional life. By improving your spoken English skills, you can become a more confident and effective communicator, which can ultimately lead to greater success and advancement in your career.

In conclusion, if you want to improve your spoken English skills and achieve your language goals, enrolling in a coaching program could be an effective solution. These programs can be customized to suit your needs and can help you become a more confident and effective communicator.

property manager looking at building, cartoon style, english learning
Shaun Berlin, Business blogs, English Learning

Using English as a property manager

property manager working hard to look after buildings in a cartoon style
property manager working hard to look after buildings in a cartoon style

A quick guide on English and the property management industry

As a property manager, it is essential to have excellent communication skills, and it all starts with mastering the language of communication. English has become a universal language, and using it effectively in your line of work is crucial for success. Here are some tips on how to use English as a property manager.


Master the basics

It’s important to learn basic English rules such as sentence structure, tenses, and grammar. Having a good comprehension of these basics will make it easier for you to communicate effectively with anyone.


Keep it brief and concise

When speaking or writing in English, it’s important to keep your message brief and to the point. Long-winded communication can lead to confusion and misinterpretation. So, be clear and concise in your messages.



Learn property management terminology

Property management has its terminology, and it’s essential to learn them. Understanding these terms will make communication easier between you and your clients, tenants, and other property management professionals. Follow the link if you want to practise

Download a pdf of property management vocabulary here

useful-vocabulary-for-property-managementDownload


Use appropriate tone and language

It’s crucial to understand the appropriate tone and language to use in different situations. For example, formal language is more appropriate when communicating with your clients or other professionals, whereas casual language is more suitable for communicating with your tenants.


Listen actively

Communication is a two-way street, and active listening is key. Listening carefully to your clients, tenants, and other professionals will help you understand their needs and suggest effective solutions.

Mastering English as a property manager will undoubtedly make you more effective in your line of work. So, take the time to learn and use these tips to communicate effectively with all involved parties in your property management career.

As you know, managing a property can be a complex task, and it requires a range of skills and knowledge to ensure success. From tenant relations to maintenance and repairs, property management involves a variety of responsibilities. Similarly, the construction industry is a challenging and dynamic field, requiring a range of skills and knowledge to complete a project successfully. In this blog post, we will explore various topics related to property management and the construction industry, including common challenges and best practices.

About Property Management

Property management involves overseeing a property’s day-to-day operations and ensuring that it remains profitable and well-maintained. Successful property management involves various aspects, including tenant relations, maintenance, and marketing. Here are some common challenges in property management and best practices to overcome them:

  • Maintenance: One of the most common challenges in property management is maintenance. Ensuring that a property is well-maintained is essential for attracting and retaining tenants. Regular inspections can help identify any maintenance or repair needs, and prompt action can help prevent more extensive damage. Responding promptly to maintenance requests is another critical aspect of successful property management.
  • Tenant Relations: Another essential aspect of property management is tenant relations. Building positive relationships with tenants can help improve tenant satisfaction and reduce the likelihood of disputes. Addressing tenant complaints and concerns promptly and professionally can help build trust and prevent potential conflicts.
  • Lease Agreements: Lease agreements are a critical aspect of property management. Lease agreements outline the terms and conditions of the tenant’s tenancy, including rent, security deposits, and lease terms. Consistent enforcement of lease terms and conditions is important to ensure that all tenants are treated fairly.
  • Tenant Screening: Screening potential tenants is another essential aspect of property management. Thoroughly screening potential tenants before approving their application can help ensure that they are a good fit for the property and reduce the likelihood of problems down the line.
  • Property Appraisal: Property appraisal is the process of evaluating a property’s value. Property appraisals are necessary for various reasons, including determining the rental rate for the property and marketing the property to prospective tenants.

Managing a property or overseeing a project requires a range of skills and knowledge. From tenant relations to project management, there are many challenges to overcome. However, by implementing best practices and prioritizing communication and transparency, property managers can ensure success.

Test your knowledge of the property management industry

By taking our quiz and stay updated on industry news by subscribing to our newsletter.

In addition, as an English speaker, you have an advantage in the property management industry, as English is the language of business worldwide. Being proficient in English will allow you to communicate effectively with a diverse range of clients, contractors, and stakeholders. Therefore, it’s wise to invest in English language courses or materials to enhance your communication abilities and increase your marketability as a property manager.

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In conclusion, property management is a complex and challenging field requiring a range of skills and knowledge. However, by implementing best practices, prioritizing communication and transparency, and investing in improving your English proficiency, you can ensure success and excel in your career as a property manager. Stay tuned for more blog posts on property management and the construction industry.

Shaun Business blogs, English Learning

How to Choose the Right Spoken English Coaching for You

If you’re looking to improve your spoken English skills, enrolling in a coaching program can be a great way to achieve your goals. However, with so many options available, it can be difficult to know where to start. This guide will help you navigate the factors to consider when choosing a spoken English coaching program, so you can make an informed decision.

Determine Your Goals and Needs.

Before choosing a spoken English coaching program, it’s important to determine your goals and needs. Are you looking to improve your pronunciation, expand your vocabulary, or gain confidence in speaking? Do you need a program that is flexible and can accommodate your schedule? Understanding your goals and needs will help you narrow down your options and choose a program that is tailored to your specific needs.

Research the Coaching Options Available.

The first step in choosing the right spoken English coaching for you is to research the options available. Look for coaching programs that have a good reputation and positive reviews from past students. Consider the teaching methods used, the qualifications of the instructors, and the level of support provided to students. It’s also important to consider the cost and whether the program fits within your budget. Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations from friends or colleagues who have taken a similar course. By doing your research, you can make an informed decision and choose a coaching program that will help you achieve your goals.

Check the Qualifications and Experience of the Coaches.

When choosing a spoken English coaching program, it’s important to consider the qualifications and experience of the coaches. Look for programs that have experienced and qualified instructors who have a strong command of the English language. You may also want to consider coaches who have experience working with students from your native language background, as they may be better equipped to understand and address your specific needs. Don’t be afraid to ask for information about the coaches’ qualifications and experience before enrolling in a program. A good coaching program will be transparent about the qualifications of their instructors and will be happy to provide this information to prospective students.

Look for Reviews and Testimonials from Previous Students.

One of the best ways to gauge the effectiveness of a spoken English coaching program is to look for reviews and testimonials from previous students. These can give you valuable insights into the quality of the program and the experiences of other students. Look for reviews on the program’s website, social media pages, and other online platforms. You can also reach out to current or former students directly to ask about their experiences. Keep in mind that no program will have 100% positive reviews, but look for patterns in the feedback to get a sense of the program’s strengths and weaknesses.

Consider the Location, Schedule, and Cost of the Coaching.

When choosing a spoken English coaching program, it’s important to consider practical factors like location, schedule, and cost. Look for a program that is conveniently located and has a schedule that works for you. Consider whether you prefer in-person classes or online instruction. Additionally, compare the cost of different programs and make sure you’re getting good value for your money. Keep in mind that the most expensive program isn’t always the best, and a lower-priced program may still offer high-quality instruction.

Choosing the right spoken English coaching program can be overwhelming, but by considering your goals and needs, researching available options, checking the qualifications and experience of the coaches, looking for reviews and testimonials from previous students, and considering practical factors like location, schedule, and cost, you can make an informed decision. Remember, finding the right program for you can take time and effort, but it’s an investment in your future and your ability to communicate effectively in English.

Shaun English Learning

Test your English

The hardest quiz yet…

Are you ready to test your English skills? Brace yourself for the hardest quiz yet! This quiz is not for the faint-hearted, as it includes a range of challenging questions that test your knowledge of specific grammar terminology.

If you’ve taken the earlier quizzes and passed with flying colors, then we commend you. But if you’re aiming to take it up a notch, then this quiz is for you. Your English skills will be put to the ultimate test, and only those who demonstrate exceptional mastery of the language will excel.

Prepare yourself for a wide range of questions that will challenge your understanding of English grammar. From simple sentence structures to complex clauses and parts of speech, you’ll need to be at the top of your game to ace this quiz.

We challenge you to get over 80% on this quiz. Can you handle it? Show us what you’ve got and prove your English proficiency. Good luck!
Shaun Business blogs, English Learning

Useful Phrases for Business Emails

Free pdf download of phrases for business English emails

In the business world, email communication is essential to building relationships, closing deals, and completing tasks. But crafting a professional and effective email can be challenging, especially if English is not your first language. That’s why we have compiled a list of useful phrases to help you write better business emails.

1. Opening sentences:
– Thank you for your email
– I am writing in regards to…
– I hope you are well

2. Introducing new information:
– I would like to draw your attention to…
– As discussed…
– I am pleased to inform you…

3. Asking for information:
– Could you please provide me with…
– I would be grateful if you could…
– I was wondering if you could help me with…

4. Offering assistance:
– If you need any further information, please do not hesitate to ask.
– Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
– Let me know if there’s anything I can help you with.

5. Closing sentences:
– I look forward to hearing from you soon.
– Thank you for your time and consideration.
– Best regards,

We have put together a free PDF download for you to print, refer to, and use in your daily business email correspondence. These phrases will surely make your email writing experience smoother and more effective. Happy emailing!
useful-phrases-for-business-emailsDownload
Shaun English Learning

Test your English

ESL (English as a Second Language) quizzes are a great way to test your knowledge of the English language and identify areas where you may need to improve. These quizzes are often used in language learning classrooms, online courses, and language exchange programs to help learners gauge their progress and measure their language proficiency.

To prepare for an ESL quiz, it’s important to review the materials covered in your English language course or study program. This may include grammar rules, vocabulary words, idioms, and pronunciation exercises. You can also find practice quizzes and sample tests online to help you prepare for the real thing.

In addition to reviewing the materials, it’s also helpful to practice your English language skills in real-life situations. This may include conversing with native speakers, reading English-language books or news articles, listening to English-language podcasts or videos, and writing in English.

To improve your English language skills, consider enrolling in a language learning program or working with a tutor. These resources can provide personalized guidance and feedback on your language skills and help you develop strategies for improving your language proficiency.

Shaun English Learning

Test your English

Welcome to our ESL quiz! ESL (English as a Second Language) quizzes are a great way to test your knowledge of the English language and identify areas where you may need to improve. These quizzes are often used in language learning classrooms, online courses, and language exchange programs to help learners gauge their progress and measure their language proficiency.

To prepare for an ESL quiz, it’s important to review the materials covered in your English language course or study program. This may include grammar rules, vocabulary words, idioms, and pronunciation exercises. You can also find practice quizzes and sample tests online to help you prepare for the real thing.

Try these multiple choice questions

This quiz is designed to test your knowledge of the English language and help you identify areas where you may need to improve. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced learner, this quiz will challenge you with a variety of questions covering grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and more. So, get ready to put your skills to the test and see how much you know about the English language! Good luck!

learning as an adult, education, skills
Shaun Business blogs, English Learning

Learning Is for Life: Advice for Adults Going Back to Study

Image from Unsplash

There are so many resources and guides about going back to education, and the problem is, most of them are written for high schoolers. The reality is that over 40% of college students are older, often with kids and full-time jobs. If you find yourself in this demographic, here’s a definitive guide to going back to school as an adult from English Online Training. Let’s get learning!

Why start studying again?

Well, to increase your learning, of course! But there are so many other reasons. For one, you significantly increase your earning potential, as employees are willing to offer higher-paying jobs for more qualified candidates. In addition, you’ll be able to transition into different career paths if you opt for education in another industry. Going back to school also offers specific training to further your career and become competitive in the job market.

What Degree Should I Opt For?

Older students have lots of options for education, including online courses, professional certifications, doctoral programs, traditional degrees, and short diplomas. The one you pick depends entirely on your current commitments and how much time you have to devote to your schooling. For example, if you have a lot of family obligations, an online degree or training program might be right for you. Little more time (and money) on your hands? Go for a more prolonged and more intensive program!

Balancing Work and Life

According to PMI, achieving that elusive work-life balance can be incredibly challenging. Be prepared for an adjustment period as you iron out the kinks of managing your family along with your new schooling commitments. Be sure to enlist the support of your partner and other family members in school drop-offs, preparing meals, and more so you can focus your energy on getting a good ROI from your education. 

If you’re retaining your day job, it will be prudent to set expectations at your work so that your team members can support you through achieving balance as well. Many employers offer professional development courses, which may be worth exploring as an alternative to traditional education, especially if it supports your larger goals and career ambitions. 

Also, one of the best things you can do for yourself when it comes to balance is make sure you’re getting enough exercise! If you don’t have time for the gym, simply incorporating some more walking while running errands can make a big difference in your overall health and wellbeing.

Prioritizing Studying

After all, your schooling will be over before you know it! Make the most of your education by managing your learning. Identifying your strengths and weaknesses will help you take responsibility for your learning. You can then apply your strengths to go above and beyond in your coursework and weaknesses to challenge yourself with complex topics and assignments. In addition, study smart and learn to be strategic about details like note-taking and study timing, so you still have time for work and family obligations.

Education for Education

One of the most valuable things you can return to school for is to pursue an education degree. Getting an education degree will enable you to help pass the gift of education on to the next generation. Also, online degree programs can help you start and finish a degree conveniently within the constraints of your schedule. 

Using What You’ve Learned to Start a Business

When you’re planning your education and deciding what kind of program you’re going to opt for, be sure to also carefully consider your next steps. For example, many individuals choose to go back to school to start their own business. Consider all the details if this sounds like you — from taxes and employees to funding and how to set up a new company. You can learn how to start a new company online. Forming an LLC can be worthwhile for entrepreneurs, as it offers limited liability, tax advantages, and increased flexibility. 

Going back to school as an adult presents a whole new set of challenges. But you’re older, wiser, and with more experience under your belt. This means that you’ll ace your new college experience and make it through with flying colors. You’ve got this!

With over ten years of experience, English Online Training is here to help! Click here to book a free trial lesson.

Thanks to Joyce Wilson at teacherspark.org for writing this post