BIZ TALK (Only 5 Days to Christmas!)

Using English for business purposes can be challenging. Typically speaking business English is more formal than the language used in everyday situations. However you need to consider not only the use of the language, but also the culture when using English in a business environment.

As Christmas is nearing, a common tradition in business is to send Christmas cards to clients or business associates. Cards can be simple without long messages, and are sent to indicate the importance of your business relationship as well as a way to wish people a happy holiday season.

In addition, there are often Christmas parties held by companies at this time of year to celebrate the season. This provides an excellent opportunity to socialize with your colleagues and with your boss. Some work places have an exchange of gifts or a “Secret Santa”, where you buy a gift for a certain dollar value, but not for a particular person. The gifts are wrapped and then each person in the company chooses a gift or takes one that another person has already opened. It is common to have a festive atmosphere in the workplace at this time of year.

If you would like more information on BIZ TALK, please email Doctor English with your questions at drenglish@vec.ca