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As an international student seeking a job in North America, it's essential not only to have the necessary technical skills but also to understand the common workplace jargon. Familiarity with these phrases will help you integrate more quickly into the workplace and communicate more effectively during interviews.
Here are some common workplace phrases that can help you navigate the North American job scene:
This doesn’t mean literally going in circles, but rather "to revisit or discuss something later." When you hear “Let’s circle back on this next week,” it means that the topic isn't the priority for now, and the manager wants to discuss it at a later time.
In the workplace, “bandwidth” refers to a person's time and energy, not internet speed. When someone asks, “Do you have the bandwidth for this?” they’re asking if you have the time or ability to take on a new task.
This phrase refers to "easy wins" or tasks that are simple and quick to accomplish. Managers often use this to suggest starting with the easiest tasks first to achieve fast results. “Let’s focus on the low-hanging fruit first” means prioritizing tasks that are easiest to complete.
To “touch base” means to have a quick check-in or communication. When someone says, “Can we touch base tomorrow?” they’re asking if you can have a brief conversation or update the next day.
This phrase means to ensure that everyone has the same understanding or is aligned on a particular goal or idea. When someone says, “Let’s make sure we’re on the same page before we proceed,” they are emphasizing the importance of confirming everyone’s agreement before moving forward.
"Sync" is short for "synchronize" and means to align or get on the same track with someone. For example: “Let’s sync after lunch to finalize the project timeline.” It means to meet or communicate to make sure everyone is aligned.
This phrase means to temporarily set something aside and revisit it later. For example, “We’re running out of time, so let’s put a pin in this discussion and revisit it next week.” It implies that the topic will be paused for now and continued at a later date.
Similar to “put a pin in it,” "let's table this" means to temporarily set aside a topic or issue. It is often used in meetings when time is running short or when the discussion is not critical at the moment.
This phrase is used to summarize or emphasize a point or conclusion. For example: “At the end of the day, we need to make sure the client is happy.” It means that, ultimately, the most important thing is ensuring client satisfaction.
“Move the needle” refers to making a significant impact or change. For example, “We need to come up with ideas that really move the needle on this project.” It implies creating substantial progress or achieving something meaningful.
This phrase means to start something with great energy and productivity, right from the beginning. For example, “We need someone who can hit the ground running in this new role.” It implies needing someone who can quickly adapt and perform without much training or ramp-up time.
“Take it offline” means to discuss something privately or separately from a group discussion, usually due to time constraints. For example: “Let’s take this offline and discuss it later.” It indicates that the conversation will continue outside the current meeting or situation.
This phrase refers to something being temporarily put aside or given lower priority. For example: “This project is on the back burner until we finish the current one.” It means that the task is not being actively worked on at the moment but will be addressed later.
This means "in the future" or "from this point on." For example, “Going forward, we’ll need to improve our communication.” It implies that a change or improvement will happen in the future.
These phrases are widely used in North American workplaces, and understanding them will not only help you navigate conversations with ease but also show your familiarity with the local work culture. By learning and using these terms, you'll have a better chance of making a positive impression in interviews and at work.
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